Most rat traps fail for three reasons: they are in the wrong place (out in the open instead of along a wall), they are baited wrong (too much bait that can be licked off), or they are built for mice, not rats.
Fix those three and most people start catching within a few nights.
Reason 1: The trap is not on the rat’s route
Rats rarely cross open ground. They run along walls, fences, foundations and the backs of shelves. A trap in the middle of a garage floor or lawn will often be ignored.
Fix: put the trap flush against the wall where you see droppings, grease marks or gnawing, with an entry facing along the route.
Reason 2: Too much bait
A big glob of peanut butter lets a rat feed from the edge without pressing the trigger. That is why people find the bait gone and the trap still set.
Fix: use a small dab, about the size of a pea, pressed into the bait cup so the rat has to work at it on the trigger plate. A raisin or nut pressed into peanut butter also works well.
Reason 3: The trap is built for mice
A mouse trap’s jaw and trigger are sized for a 20–30 g animal. Rats are often ten times heavier and can trip a small trap without being caught.
Fix: use a trap designed for rats, with a firm trigger and a strong spring.
Reason 4: Rats are cautious of new objects
Rats are naturally wary of new things in their space. Some customers have the best results by leaving traps baited but unset for a night or two, then setting them once the bait has been taken.
Reason 5: Not enough traps
One trap for an active rat problem is rarely enough. Use several traps 2–3 metres apart along the route and check them every day.
Reason 6: Food is easier elsewhere
Open compost, spilled bird seed and pet food compete with your bait. Close bins, store feed in sealed containers and clean up under feeders while you trap.
A trap designed around these problems
The ZIVASKA Dual-Tunnel Rat Trap has an entry at each end so rats can walk straight through along a wall, a 24 g+ trigger sized for rats, and an enclosed mechanism so you can empty it without touching the catch.
Safety: keep traps out of reach of children, pets and non-target animals, and follow the instructions in the box.
Frequently asked questions
Why is my rat trap not catching anything?
The most common causes are placement away from walls, too much bait, a trap sized for mice, and too few traps. Move traps tight against walls on the rat’s route, use a pea-sized dab of bait, and use a trap built for rats.
What is the best bait for rat traps?
Peanut butter is reliable because it has a strong smell and is hard to steal. Use a small amount pressed into the bait cup. A raisin or nut pressed into peanut butter also works well.
How long does it take to catch a rat?
With good placement and bait, many people catch within a few nights. Cautious rats can take longer; leaving baited traps unset for a night or two can help.
ZIVASKA is a Canadian, women-owned small business in Burnaby, BC. Free shipping across Canada; orders ship within 1 business day.