Making a Garbage Can Rat-Proof Plus Sanitation Tips to Keep House Rats Away

Ideally, rat-proofed garbage cans will sit on a platform 12 inches(30 cm) above the ground with at least 24 inches(60 cm) between the can lids and any other structures that a rat might leap from. At home, I once had a rat climb a section of framing lumber to access a window screen to enter a storage room.

Replace any cans with holes or lids that do not fit tightly. Secure the lids with spring fasteners strung between the handles.

Also, do not store surplus garbage in plastic, paper or cardboard. In addition, ensure that you have enough cans on-hand to handle Missy's Birthday party bash or Uncle Maury's wake. Rinse cans out periodically to remove any organic matter that might tempt a marauding rat.

Tidiness is next to Ratless-ness, so pickup fallen fruit and pet feces daily and nightly, put away any pet food not consumed that day.