To effectively monitor or trap rats, using the right attractant is crucial. Rats are intelligent, cautious creatures (especially Rattus norvegicus and Rattus rattus), but they are highly driven by smell and food. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what works best, why it works, and how to use it.
🔍 What Makes a Good Rat Attractant?
A strong rat attractant typically has these qualities:
- High scent profile – Rats rely heavily on smell.
- Protein- or fat-rich – Especially attractive for rats.
- Sweetness – Roof rats (Rattus rattus) often favour fruit and sugary foods.
- Sticky texture – Helps keep rats at the trap or bait station longer.
- Non-perishable – Important for long-term monitoring or baiting.
✅ Top Natural Attractants
| Attractant | Why it Works |
|---|---|
| Peanut Butter | Strong aroma, high protein/fat, sticky |
| Bacon / Cooked Meat | High-fat, strong scent |
| Chocolate | Sweet and oily |
| Fish | Very pungent |
| Fruits (banana, apple) | Sweet, moist, aromatic |
⚗️ The Rat Catcher Rat Attractants
These are specially formulated gels, pastes, or liquids designed to out-compete household foods in attractiveness.
- Non-toxic liquid
- Safe in sensitive accounts (schools, kitchens, etc.)
- Long-lasting scent
- Water-resistant (Oil based only)
- Ideal for snap traps
- Mimics high-protein food sources
- Helps intensify bait station scent trail
💡 Expert Tips for Use
- Rotate baits: Rats can become bait-shy. Switch between sweet and savoury.
- Warm baits up: Slightly warming (e.g., in the sun) releases scent better.
- Use cotton wool: Soaked in oil or extract (e.g., bacon grease) for nesting attraction.
- Avoid contamination: Don’t touch baits with bare hands – use gloves.
🧠 Behavioural Consideration
- Neophobic rats (especially in rural areas) may avoid new bait stations. Pre-bait with attractants before activating traps.
- Established food sources can reduce bait uptake. Use stronger-scented or unique baits to cut through “food competition.”
If you’re looking for bait uptake maximisation or rapid trap success, combining scent-rich attractants with intelligent placement (near known runs or droppings) is key.