Quick answer
Keep rats away by sealing entry points, storing food tightly, removing waste quickly, reducing clutter, fixing water leaks, and cleaning droppings safely. If infestation is heavy, use professional pest control.
Where to check first
Kitchen cupboards and food storage areas
Ceilings, roof edges, and wall openings
Drains, pipes, and gaps under doors
Shops, stores, farms, and long-closed rooms
Practical prevention steps
- Use covered containers for garri, rice, grains, pet food, and leftovers.
- Clear waste and avoid open refuse near the house.
- Block holes with durable material, not paper or light foam.
- Keep rooms dry and reduce piles of cartons, clothes, and unused materials.
- Clean droppings with wet disinfectant methods, not dry sweeping.
Related: Clean rodent droppings safely, Rat urine disease, Lassa fever explained.