@sallyg I agree rats are disgusting! There are key times for catching rats in traps. Around cold snaps and just after dark. Usually in warmer weather they are comfortable and have plenty of food. They will not go near a trap. Make sure to keep your kitty in. Rub flour all over the wood of the trap and smear and mash in peanut butter on the bait holder. Set out just before dusk near where you think they are. If you have not caught one in two hours, you can be pretty sure you are not going to get one that night. Use a stick and set off the trap. Repeat nightly. If there is a rat throw the whole thing away. Prying the rat out is not worth it. You would have to set the used trap outside in the weather for awhile. Do not know how a rat knows but they know the trap is used.
May you have a wonderful safe weekend!
