Best Rat Baits
Last update on 2023-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
How We Found the Best Rat Baits
Rat Baits We Reviewed:
Best Best Rat Baits
Rat has wreaked havoc on humans for centuries. They are incredibly destructive and able to chew through seemingly solid materials such as cinder blocks. They are also carriers for many diseases including the bubonic plague and Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome.
We sympathize with you if you’ve had the traumatic experience of finding signs of an infestation in your home. Rats pose a challenge when it comes to getting rid of them. Their wariness and elusive nature work in their favor. Fortunately, there are a host of products you can use that provide practical solutions.
Our top four best rat baits of 2018 review covers the most common types with a specific recommendation for a product. We’ve also included some background information to help you get the most out of them. Continue reading to learn more and regain your peace of mind.
BEST BLOCKS
JT Eaton Bait Block Rodenticide
Last update on 2023-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Pros
- The blocks are easy to use
- It’s a decent value, considering the size of the container and the amount of product you get for the price
- Each block has a peanut butter flavor for optimal results
- It has a one-year, limited warranty
- It’s suitable if you have a more severe infestation
Cons
- Some rodents may develop resistance to the first-generation active ingredient
Features & Specs
- You’ll see it sold in a nine-pound, tamper-resistant pail
- It contains 144 one-ounce blocks of rodenticide
- Diphacinone is the active ingredient
The pail contains a generous amount of rodenticide for both small and large jobs. It is also tamper-resistant to keep children out of it.
BEST PELLETS
MOTOMCO Tomcat Rat And Mouse Bait Pellets
Last update on 2023-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Pros
- The product is made in the USA
- You can get it in bulk or convenient pre-measured packs
- The pests will eat it
Cons
- It may take multiple feedings to kill the rodents
Features & Specs
- You can buy it in three or four packs as well as in bulk with one or two 10-pound pails
- Diphacinone is the active ingredient
It is effective when used as directed. It’s essential to replenish the bait once the rats have ingested it to prevent them from developing resistance to it. While they will eat the pellets alone, you can increase its uptake by mixing them with peanut butter.
BEST BARS
Just One Bite II Bar
Last update on 2023-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Pros
- It dispatches of rodents with only one feeding
- It contains the second-generation anticoagulant for quicker results
- It works as advertised
- The packaging is top-notch for maximum freshness
- It can work on larger pests too
Cons
- It is expensive
- The bars are hard to break up into smaller pieces
Features & Specs
- Bromadiolone is the active ingredient
- It includes eight bars that are one pound each
The product includes eight bars with features to encourage rats to gnaw on them. They are on the larger size though you can split them to get more use of the pesticide. They hold up well over time thanks to the excellent packaging.
BEST BAIT STATION
D-Con 3-Count Disposable Bait Stations
Last update on 2023-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Pros
- They are tamper-resistant
- You can use them both indoors and outdoors
- They are corner-fitted
- They are affordably priced
- They are pre-measured and ready to use
Cons
- It may take several days before you see results
- The smaller size makes them more appropriate for mice and smaller rats
Features & Specs
- You can buy a single reusable trap with 20 refills or three disposable ones
- The packaging is discreet so no one need know that you have an issue with rodents
If you have noticed any activity, try a different spot. You can also buy refillable bait stations if you’d prefer. The product contains the first-generation anticoagulant diphacinone. For the best results, set out multiple stations in areas where you’ve seen signs of rodent activity.

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What Are Rat Baits?
You’ll see the words baits and poisons used interchangeably. Their purpose is the same—to kill rats quickly. They do it in several different ways. One of the most common types is anticoagulants. Ingredients like warfarin are safe for people with a history of blood clots but are deadly to rodents in high doses or concentrations. Pests succumb to internal bleeding.
Other kinds target the digestive, nervous, or urinary systems with equally lethal results. You’ll also see products that cause death by dehydration by interfering with the neural transmission in the body. The label provides the specific action of the pesticide as per US Environmental Protection Agency regulations.
Are They Effective?
The effectiveness varies with the rodenticide. With anticoagulants, you’ll see products described as either first or second generation. Both can kill rodents. However, some animals develop resistance to the former, primarily when used in areas with a continual problem. It’s imperative to follow the label’s instructions as directed.
Second-generation pesticides are more lethal and thus, more effective. You can use less and get the job done quicker. Because of their greater potency, they are more dangerous to use, especially if small children or pets are around your home. You can expect to see results in as little as one day or up to five or more, depending on the formulation.
The advantage of this type is that often only one feeding is needed to get the problem under control. However, they are more expensive because of that benefit. Bear in mind that you should continue to use these products as long as the rodents are eating the bait. Keep the supply full and avoid stretches of time longer than 48 hours between refills.
Are They Safe to Use?
All animals are different which is evident in their varying physiologies. Anticoagulants are broad-spectrum pesticide which means they pose a risk for anything that comes in contact with it, including people. Newer products target specific pests which makes them safer to use if you have outdoor pets or livestock.
We strongly urge you to read the label thoroughly before using any pesticide. Pay attention to actions to take in case of an accidental exposure too. Wear gloves when using these products and disposing of dead rodents. The same precautions apply when cleaning up after you’ve taken care of pest problem.
What Should I Look For In A Rat Bait?
The first thing to consider is the active ingredient. That will provide the best information about its use and effectiveness. Look for the type of bait that it is. The product description will list the correct application along with the timeline for results. Bear in mind that you may need to apply it multiple times.
Some offer a limited warranty. We recommend looking for one that has a proven track record of working. However, it does not end there. Careful placement of the baits near areas of activity is imperative. Along walls and thoroughfares are the best spots. Look for signs such as gnawing, scratch marks, or droppings at the places they frequent.
Rats are leery of anything new in their surroundings, including food. You’ll have the best luck with a pesticide that has a tasty flavor such as peanut butter to entice the rodents to eat them. Others contain familiar ingredients like seeds and grains to make rodent less reluctant to take the bait.
Finally, prevent a recurrence by cleaning up promptly after food preparation. Keep areas around the garbage clear of debris. Rats are successful because they are opportunistic. Avoid the mistake of making your home a target during their search for their next meal.