Will Slug Pellets Kill Rats?
WouterIf you are considering using slug pellets as a way to kill rats, you may be wondering if they’re effective. Slug pellets contain a substance called metaldehyde, which is highly toxic for rats. When ingested, it can damage the nervous system, causing secondary poisoning. Additionally, rats are not picky eaters, so it’s possible for them to ingest contaminated slugs. This can lead to serious illness, and even death.
Slug pellets are only effective against active slug populations, and they should be applied every 30 to 40 days. If you have rats in your yard, you may wish to use rat poison, which is more effective against rodents than metaldehyde. If you’re unsure whether slug pellets will kill rats, consult a professional to help you decide which product will work best for your situation.
Slug pellets are not cheap, and they can quickly add up to considerable costs over time. It is also worth noting that they are not a permanent solution for the problem, as slugs come back as soon as the bait is thrown out. Instead of buying expensive slug pellets that only last a few days, you can promote the growth of natural slug enemies instead.
Rats are winter pests, and it’s important to remember that they can’t ward off cold. If you’re in an area where winter weather is a big problem, you’ll likely notice an increase in rat infestation. You may also notice an increase in moths or cockroaches as well.
