Perhaps nothing begs your disgust more than knowing you have rats roaming around. Feeling anxious over these notorious species is expected since they carry over 40 diseases, which includes the most common Leptospirosis, wherein you can get it from the urine of infected rats.

Rats are generally prolific breeders; they can produce up to 22 babies per litter. Hence, you must act quickly and look for the best possible solution on how to get rid of them.

Some people use poison baits to kill them, while most homeowners are into rat traps to get rid of them. However, it would help if you also considered your children and pets when using rat traps; it must be safe to use around the house.

Before I will give you the list of the best dog-proof rat traps, here are some things to consider when buying one. Pets are also part of the family; therefore, you must also be cautious when placing rat traps around your house to avoid harming them or get injured because of the trap.

Pet-Friendly Rat Trap Buyer’s Guide

First things first, let’s define what a pet-proof rat trap is; a pet-proof rat trap is any device or method that can get rid of rats safely without putting the lives of your pets at risk.

If it kills rats but endangers your furry friend; therefore, it is not pet-friendly.

Traditionally, snap rat traps are a tried-and-tested method; however, they suffer from limitations, because they can put your pets’ lives at risk such as stepping on them or stick their nose on the trap.

A typical rat trap is designed with powerful claws and teeth, which may pose a considerable danger to your pets.

Because of this, it has led many people to shift into bait instead of snap traps. However, to make it work, you need to place some poison bait, which comes with its own sets of concerns.

The fact that the rats, whom you are trying to kill and your pets share the common biology. It is because rats are often used as testing animals in the laboratory; therefore, if it works safely on rats, most probably, it will be safe for people and to your pets.

This idea also works in the opposite. Substances or chemicals that are harmful to rats are also toxic to your furry friends.

Any rat bait that is used as an active ingredient to kill rats such as Bromethalin, Brodifacoum, and anticoagulants can get rid of rats, as well as to your beloved pets.

Both rat poison and snap traps are effective ways to get rid of your rodent problems, but make sure you are cautious when you are using them so you won’t endanger your beloved pets.

Luckily, there is a way to protect them.

Types of Pet-proof Rat Traps

There are two main types of pet-proof rat traps: bait boxes (or the so-called bait station) and the enclosed snap traps. Here’s a quick differentiation between the two:

Bait stations

A bait station is a box that can be opened wherein you can put bait blocks or nuggets inside the station.

They are designed with a small entrance and exit holes on both sides, which is large enough for rats, but too small for your pets like dogs and cats to access the box.

These stations are usually made from hard plastic that has locking mechanisms to prevent children and pets from accessing them.

Most bait stations that you will encounter are tamper-resistant to protect the bait or the trap while allowing the rodents to enter the station.

Snap traps

Rat snap trap has been one of the most popular methods in controlling rat infestations. These traps are straightforward to use that can deliver a humane way to trap rats. Once a catch is made, it can be discarded or reused, just make sure to clean it properly.

What makes a rat trap pet-friendly

Whatever method of killing rats that don’t have to be changed or hidden is considered safe for pets, you need to take extra precautions to protect your pets, but won’t lessen the effectivity or lose the purpose of the rat traps.

Let’s say rodenticides, even though they are poisonous to pets and rats; it can be considered as pet-friendly if they are used in conjunction with the right bait stations.

Well, it makes them safe when they are used as instructed. However, if you use them without a bait station, its use will make them unsafe and hazardous.

Common rat traps that are unsafe for dogs and cats

There’s one type of rat trap that is not safe for both cats and dogs, and that is the electronic or electric shock traps.

Cats love to stick their paws to reach for things, and dogs do the same with their noses when they find something peculiar. By doing so, they can receive a dangerous shock that can be fatal.

However, restricting your pet’s access to electric traps will require much planning and careful thought, to avoid losing the goal or the purpose of using pet-friendly methods for controlling rat infestations.

  • Dogs: Due to their large frame, most dogs will not die instantly from exposure to different rat traps. Though, some anticoagulant rodenticides create internal bleeding that can make them sick and eventually die. Snaps traps are a right choice probably since it will not kill them, but the injury is more likely to occur.
  •  Cats: Cats are smaller than dogs, thus making them more susceptible to rat poison baits than dogs. However, cats are pickier about their diet than dogs; therefore, they are less likely to eat it. Same with dogs, snap traps can seriously injure cats.

Here Are The Best Dog Proof Rat Traps

Are you looking for the best rat traps that are pet-friendly? Perfect! Here are my top picks among the various types of rat traps, which I have summarized below. Read on to learn more.

Kat Sense Rat Bait Station Traps

Dimensions: 9.8 x 8 x 8 inches

This durable snap trap is made from polypropylene construction that snaps in a split of seconds to get off any rat or mouse that goes near into it.

In addition, both sides are covered by a hard plastic cover that serves as a tube-like entrance. The cover is hinged so that you can open it once you spotted dead rodents and you want to remove them.

Thanks to its sturdy construction, it can withstand exposure to any extreme weather and temperature without cracking or breaking. It is designed with double-key locking lids to keep the bait free from moisture and dirt, maintaining its alluring effects on rodents.

The bait tray can be removed beneath and refill it with some fresh baits. Once the rat is trapped inside, the cover will keep the rat from getting away, to make sure that it won’t slip when the trap snaps closed on them.

The rat trap is equipped with pet-proof baffles, making them inaccessible to your children and your furry friends like cats, dogs, and other non-targeted species.

Inside the trap are metal bars that hold the mouse poison securely inside it. Therefore, it can’t be shaken, and the entry holes inhibit household pets from coming into the trap.

On top of that, this rat trap includes mounting brackets to prevent the bait station from being carried away by rats. It is also reusable, which makes it more cost-effective than monthly pest control.

For best results, position this rat trap along rodent runways next to walls and other secluded areas where rats will be most likely to roam around.

Pros:

  • It is easy to bait and set
  • The bait tray is refillable
  • It is covered in a hard plastic shell
  • It can kill rats in a slit of the second

Cons:

  • It is more costly than other traps

RinneTraps Walk the Plank Rat Trap

Dimensions: 8 x3 x 1 inches

The RinneTraps Walk the Plank Rat Trap looks simple, but it is an effective way of catching rats.

It works on a simple principle wherein rats, and other rodents will climb and walk up the side and fall into the bucket once it sprang. Though it may sound odd, it works!

Well, thanks to the sensitive trigger mechanism, which can trap even the tiniest rats.

Just like with other rat traps, you no longer need to deal with unsanitary rat traps that often are not effective.

To make this work, you must place the trap on the bucket. Put a little amount of bait on the tip and inside the bucket. Just wait for the rats to feed on the bait, and voila!

They will be sprung immediately into the bucket. Make sure to put at least ½ inch of water into the bucket to keep them from jumping out of the bucket.

This product is proudly made in the USA, from a family-owned manufacturing company that is based in New York.

They have also been featured on many popular Youtube videos and channels. On top of that, this trap is weatherproof so that it can be used both indoors and outdoors.

For better results, place the trap next to walls where rats love to roam around. The packaging comes with a free ramp that costs about $6 but will be given for free if you purchase this rat trap.

Pros:

  • It is cheaper than other rat traps
  • It is proudly made in the USA
  • It can catch a slew of rats in one run
  • It offers 24/7 customer support

Cons:

  • No bucket included
  • Clean up is a bit messy

Protecta LP Rat Bait Station

Dimension: 9.1 x 13.6 x 3.35 inches

This trap is one of the favourites by pest control professionals in controlling rat infestations. It is the bait station that has been established and been used for several years.

Well, it is because of its simplicity, durability, reliability, and ease of use. You can install the unit in a matter of minutes since it very to easy to install; plus it comes with a manual.

As you may notice that it is designed in a semi-triangular shape that allows it to be set flush around the corners and walls. Either way, it consists of openings on both ends so that wherever side it is located in the wall, it still allows rats to access the bait inside.

The Protecta LP Bait Station locks automatically when closed, and it uses two-prong keys included in the packaging that is required to open each bait station. It also provides metal rods for mounting the bait blocks inside.

One downside of this rat traps is it has one key per station; therefore, if you lose it, you cannot maximize the use of the rat trap.

Moreover, this rat bait station is tamper-resistant, making it ideal to use indoors, outdoors, and other tight baiting locations where rats most likely roam around.

It is also safe to use around the house, protecting children and pets from accessing it. Depending on the size of the rats, it can cater one to two rats inside the station.

Make sure to place an alluring bait such as peanut butter so that rats will be encouraged to go inside the station and feed on it.

Pros:

  • It is easy to use
  • Made from durable materials
  • It is tampered-resistant
  • Recommended by pest control professionals

Cons:

  • Include one key per box
  • A bit pricey

Faicuk Large Collapsible Humane Cage Trap

Dimensions: 32 x 11 x 13 inches

This humane live rat trap makes the best option in catching larger rodents. It comes in a larger size to capture any rodents that are bugging your house from mice to rats to chipmunks.

This product is well-designed with a hair-trigger to avoid rats from escaping once they are inside the trap. On the other hand, you can also adjust its sensitivity.

The rat trap is made from sturdy galvanized steel to resist rust and corrosion. It is built to last for many years, which is also safe during transportation.

The internal edges are smoothened to prevent injuring the animals, as well as to you.

Despite its size, this trap is collapsible, meaning it can be folded flat to save space immediately when not in use.

The rat is very simple to use and set up, just follow the manual that comes with the packaging.

However, it is recommended to check with your local authorities when using this type of trap since there are different trapping laws, which may prohibit the use of a live trap.

The trap comes with a carrying handle so that you won’t come in contact with the trapped animal inside the cage.

Depending on your target animal, choose the right bait so that you can allure the target to come into the traps.

For instance, the ideal bait for carnivorous animal species such as roast meat, pork, fish, and beef, while for herbivorous, you can bait them with fresh vegetables, corn, peanuts, lettuce, and other green leafy vegetables.

So if you are looking for a humane way to catch rats without harming your children and family, this rat trap from Faicuk is your best option.

Pros:

  • It can be sued for indoors and outdoors
  • It is well-made, making in inescapable to rodents
  • It comes with a carrying handle to avoid coming in contact with the animals inside
  • Ideal for larger animals

Cons:

  • Make sure to release the animals far from other dwellings

JT Eaton Top Loader Bait Station

Dimensions: 12 x 4.5 x 15.25 inches

This bait station comes with a unique design that makes refilling the bait easier and simpler.

It looks like an inverted T wherein the vertical tube with wire holds the bait blocks. Just unscrew the cap and pull it up to access the bait.

On the other hand, the sidehex screw functions as a holder for the lid in place. It prevents tampering by children and pets, making it an ideal choice for your house.

As you notice, this station comes with six in each package, and they are all made from thick, durable plastic materials.

The bait that holds the wire keeps the bait up out of the water, just in case of rain; therefore, this station is ideal to use indoors and outdoors.

The good thing about this rat trap is that it can hold either solid bait or a bottle of liquid bait.

To make this work, place the bait blocks on top of the feeder and they will disperse on both sides of the inverted T-shaped station.

Once the rat entered either side of the station, the rat will be trapped, causing the rat’s death.

Due to its narrow base, the JT Eaton Rat Trap can be tied to a tree limb or fence to kill rats where they usually love to run.

This product comes with a bait holder rods, hex keys, screws, poison labels, and even disk nuts. On top of its complete packaging, it gives a 1-year limited warranty to protect against product defects and poor quality.

Pros:

  • It is easy to use and refill
  • It can be used in both indoors and outdoors
  • It is made from thick ABS plastics
  • It is tamper-resistant

Cons:

  • Only uses bait blocks or liquid bait

Tomcat Rat&Mouse Child and Dog Resistant Station

Dimensions: 17.5 x 6.4 x 9.8 inches

To keep your dogs and cats from eating the poison, look for rat traps where rodents can only enter. One of the favourites rat traps is the Tomcat Rat & Mouse Child and Dog Resistant.

This bait station provides a high level of station security and comes with a see-through window for easy monitoring of the bait and when to know to refill the bait station.

Amazingly, each bait block can kill up to three rats, making it efficient in protecting your house against rodents.

This bait station is both weather and tamper-resistant that is ideal to be used inside the house since your children and pets cannot access the bait inside.

It is also perfect to use for indoor and outdoor. It is also easy to use that allows placement in small and conspicuous areas like the entry and the garage doors, below the windows, behind the refrigerator, and other large appliances where rodents tend to hide.

This bait station is also reusable; however, make sure to keep the station clean after use. It can be placed vertically or horizontally, depending on your preference.

This bait station is so easy to use, just load one or two blocks into the refillable station, and just wait for the rats to come in the station. 

Pros:

  • It is weather and tamper-resistant
  • It comes with a see-through window for easy monitoring
  • It is reusable, but make sure to clean it every after use
  • It can kill up to three rats instantly

Cons:

  • Clean up is not pleasant

iTrap Rat & Mouse Bait Station  

Dimension: 9 x 7.75 x 3.72 inches

This tamper-resistant bait station is perfect for pet lovers who do not want to inflict harm or pain to their dogs and cats.

It is because all poisons are kept locked in the station that makes them inaccessible for children and pets.

It comes with two bait stations so you can completely cover the areas where rats are most likely to encounter them.

If you notice, its design is just simple and lowkey so that you can discreetly set up the station almost anywhere without creating much fuss or an eyesore.

These bait stations come with a mounting bracket that helps you set them anywhere. It comes with locking lids to keep unwanted target species out while rodents can still access the bait through the small hole.

It is straightforward to use, just place your favourite bait or rat poison inside, lock it with the metal bait bar, and then close the locking lid and just wait to work on its own.

If you are tired of snap traps, well, this might be your best bet. It is the most effective way to take care of your rat problems.

Pros:

  • It comes with two bait stations
  • It is made from a durable plastic shell
  • It includes mounting bracket to lock the strap in position and prevent from being carried away
  • Easy to install and use

Cons:

  • Mounting equipment is not included in the packaging
  • Larger animals can chew through the plastic shell

BARLAS Tunneled Safe Pest Control Rat Trap

Dimension: 7.8 x 5.8 x 4.2 inches

Another rat trap that is humane in handling rodent infestation is the BARLAS Tunneled Safe Pest Control Rat Trap.

It is perfect for families with toddlers and pets since it is safe to use around the house.

Well, thanks to its safe advanced design, wherein its teeth are hidden inside the trap. So, if you are looking for a rat trap that is pet-friendly, this is one of the best options.

Though it is made from plastic materials, it has a unique construction that features a spring on the outside, preventing the rodents from destroying the trap once they are trapped inside.

What I love about this rat trap, is that it is completely washable and reusable with no lock-in odor and stain. 

It comes in shape, wherein it replicates the caves and tunnels that rodents likely to stay at. Well, that design contributes to the overall effectiveness of the product that is to catch rats.

It is straightforward to use, just place the bait on the weight triggered bait station, and then press the door until it locks. So, when the mouse enters the trap, the spring door will just shut down.

For best results, position the trap against the wall. Make sure to place the bait as far as back toward the end of the trap; it helps to ensure that the rat triggers the door to close.

Pros:

  • Low risk of possible injury
  • It can be used indoors and outdoors
  • Safe to use around the house
  • It can reused and it is completely washable

Cons:

  • It may be too small for larger rats
  • Clean up is messy

Conclusion

The list above contains some of the best dog-proof traps, but my personal favorite is:

J T Eaton 902 Tamper Resistant Bait Station 

Tips To Increase Success of Trapping a Rat

Having the list of the best rat bait is not enough to catch rats; hence, the proper use of these traps can significantly increase the odds of your catch rate.

Here are some of the few tips to enhance your trapping success:

Place multiple traps around the house

If you see a single rat roaming around your house, expect that there are more lurking nearby the house.

However, if you place several traps instead of just one, it may increase the chances of catching them all in only one installation. That’s how to control your rodent problem.

Consider the location

Of course, you will catch more rats if you place these traps in areas where you notice signs of rat activities such as gnaw marks, droppings, and shredded pieces of papers.

Rats are notorious species that can create the same pathways to and from their nests or hiding places.

Use the right bait

Using the right bait is essential if you want to lure the rodents into the traps you set. Rats are attracted to high protein food such as peanut butter, seeds, oatmeals, and chocolates.

Aside from the food, they are also allured by nesting materials such as paper, cotton, strings, dental floss, and others that can be placed inside the trap.

If you are smoking, avoid touching the bait with your bare hands as it can repel rats because of the strong smell of nicotine. Just follow the instructions on how to place the bait properly in the station.

Know when to stop

The most common mistake when trapping rodents is ending the trapping process immediately.

Just because you have caught three to five rats, it does not mean that you have eradicated the rat infestation. Just keep your traps in place until you no longer see droppings or other signs of rodent activities.

Keep the trap away from pets

While the traps, as mentioned earlier, won’t harm your pets, they can still get the animal’s curiosity. To avoid accidental poisoning, just place the trap inside a covered cardboard box, and then cut a small entrance hole at both ends to allow them to enter the station.

Conclusion

When eliminating rats and other rodents from your home, especially if you are living with pets, it would be a great idea to consider using eco-friendly, tamper-resistant, and humane trap methods.

These traps should also protect your dogs and cats from accidental rodenticide poisoning.

Make sure to get any of the listed rat traps since they have been reviewed carefully that makes them the best rodent-control for your family and pets.