Why Rat Poison Is Dangerous for Your Family and Pets
Rat poison seems like a quick fix, but it creates far more problems than it solves. Every year, thousands of pets and children are poisoned by rodenticides. Here's why poison is dangerous and what safer alternatives actually work.
The Hidden Dangers of Rat Poison
Secondary Poisoning of Pets
DANGERWhen rats eat poison, they don't die immediately. They wander around for days, becoming easy prey for your pets. Dogs and cats that eat poisoned rats can suffer severe internal bleeding and organ damage. Even small amounts can be fatal.
Children's Exposure Risk
DANGERRat poison looks like colorful pellets or blocks that curious children might mistake for candy. Even "tamper-resistant" bait stations can be opened by determined toddlers. A single ingestion can cause life-threatening bleeding disorders.
Rats Die in Inaccessible Places
Poisoned rats often crawl into walls, attics, or under floors to die. The smell of decomposing rats is unbearable and can last for weeks. Removing dead rats from walls often requires cutting holes in drywall, costing hundreds in repairs.
Doesn't Solve the Real Problem
Poison kills rats but doesn't seal the entry points. New rats will keep coming in through the same holes. You'll be stuck in an endless cycle of poisoning, dealing with dead rats, and watching new ones move in.
Environmental Contamination
Rat poison doesn't stay where you put it. Poisoned rats contaminate soil and water. Wildlife like owls, hawks, and coyotes that eat poisoned rats also die. California has strict regulations on rodenticides for this reason.
Resistance and Ineffectiveness
Many LA rat populations have developed resistance to common poisons. You might be using poison that doesn't even work anymore, while the rats continue breeding and causing damage. Professional exclusion is far more effective.
Safer, More Effective Alternatives
Professional Exclusion
Seal all entry points with steel mesh and professional materials. This is the only permanent solution.
Snap Traps
When placed correctly by professionals, snap traps are immediate and don't pose secondary poisoning risks.
Habitat Modification
Remove food sources, water, and shelter. Make your property less attractive to rodents.
Regular Monitoring
Professional inspections catch problems early before they become infestations.
If You've Already Used Poison
- Remove all bait stations immediately and store them safely
- Keep pets indoors and away from areas where poison was placed
- Watch for signs of poisoning: lethargy, bleeding, difficulty breathing
- Call a professional to properly remove dead rats and seal entry points
Choose Safe, Permanent Solutions
Our poison-free exclusion method protects your family, pets, and permanently solves your rodent problem.
Pet-safe, family-safe rodent control