How to deal with a dead rat?

Author: Ruben Adams  |  Last update: Wednesday, August 27, 2025

Disposing of dead rats is important for the health and safety of people, their pets, and wildlife. To properly dispose of a dead rat: Put on protective gloves. Place the rat in 2 plastic bags and throw away in the regular trash.

What should you do with a dead rat?

Transfer the dead rat into a tightly-sealed plastic bag and throw it in your curbside trashcan for the next pick up. Decomposition requires a lot of fresh air and bacteria so depriving it in an anaerobic environment (sealed bag) would ensure it doesn't rot before then.

How long does it take for the smell of a dead rat to go away?

It may take days or weeks for the carcass to dry out and the odor to naturally and completely disappear. Humidity can affect the process and make the nauseating odor even more intense. So, if a rat dies near steam pipes or other moist areas in your home or car, it may be "ripe" for a long time.

What to do after your rat dies?

When a rat dies, I recommend that his companions be given the chance to examine the body. The idea is that it will be less traumatic for them if they recognize their friend has died instead of just “disappearing.” Place the body in the cage and allow his companions to sniff and interact with it.

Where do I dispose of dead rats?

No need to try to remove the extra air from the bag. Keep all the germs right in the bag! Now you can dispose of the bag and its contents in the trash. You may wish to double bag the contents, to prevent any smells from escaping the bag until pick up and remove the trash to an outside bin while you're at it.

How to get rid of dead rat smell?

Do dead rats attract other rats?

If you can face it, smear the dead rat around the inside of the trap box, or leave the dead animal nearby. Rats are attracted by other dead rats.

Should I remove dead rat?

Is it safe to remove dead rats on my own? Handling dead rats can be hazardous to your health due to the risk of disease transmission. It is highly recommended that you hire a professional dead rat removal service like PGH Pest Prevention to ensure safe and effective removal.

How do you dispose of a dead pet rat?

To properly dispose of a dead rat:
  1. Put on protective gloves.
  2. Place the rat in 2 plastic bags and throw away in the regular trash.
  3. Wash your hands thoroughly.

How do you clean after finding a dead rat?

Clean up dead rodents or nests
  1. Step 1: Wear rubber or plastic gloves.
  2. Step 2: Spray the dead rodent, nest, and surrounding area with a disinfectant. ...
  3. Step 3: Place the dead rodent or nesting materials in a plastic bag along with any used traps. ...
  4. Step 4: Tie the ends of the bag together in a knot to seal the bag.

Is breathing in dead rat smell harmful?

The smell of a dead rat can be harmful to a person's health due to the toxic gases and microscopic compounds of the dead animal that are constantly being released into the indoor air. Since most homes are not consistently ventilated, the gases permeate into the respiratory tract and can potentially cause illness.

How long does it take for a dead rat to get maggots?

The female lays her eggs on or near a decomposing animal, and the eggs hatch within 8-20 hours into larvae, also known as maggots. Maggots are legless and worm-like, with a moist, translucent appearance.

Is it okay to leave a dead mouse in the wall?

A dead mouse should not be left to rot inside your wall, because its corpse could soon attract fleas. With an electronic borescope, you can locate the corpse's whereabouts by drilling a coin-sized hole, a few inches off the ground, into the drywall of the cavity that seems to be emitting the smell.

How do you comfort a dying rat?

For pet rats, ensuring they are comfortable during their final days is paramount. This includes: Warmth: Keeping the rat in a warm and quiet environment. Hydration and Nutrition: Offering easy-to-eat foods and ensuring they remain hydrated, using a syringe if necessary.

What should I do if I find a dead rat in my yard?

Soak or spray dead rodents with a disinfecting solution (3 tablespoons of bleach per gallon of water or a commercial disinfectant containing phenol) until thoroughly wet and place in a plastic bag. The bag should be placed in a second bag and tightly sealed.

Is it safe to touch a dead rat?

Handling a dead rat can expose you to harmful pathogens. To protect your health, contacting a professional dead rodent removal service is strongly recommended. However, if you insist on handling the situation yourself, follow these steps: Wear protective gear: Gloves and a mask are essential.

Does seeing one rat mean an infestation?

Even a single rat is enough to make most people shudder, but the truth is that if you have rats, you are unlikely to only have one. Rats are clever creatures that can squeeze into the tiniest of gaps, and once they have made themselves at home, they will breed.

How to get rid of rats in house fast?

The best way to get rid of rats or mice is by using traps. If using spring loaded traps for rats, bait three of them in a row without setting them. Bait with dried fruit, peanut butter mixed with oats, or cheese.

What is the lifespan of a pet rat?

On average, pet rats can live for around 2-3 years, although some may live up to 4-5 years with proper care. However, there are some instances of rats living longer than 5 years, with the oldest recorded pet rat living up to 7 years.

What to do after rat dies?

If you find a dead rat you can double bag it in plastic bags and put it in your normal refuse. If you suspect accidental poisoning, immediately contact your local hospital or your local GP.

How long can you leave a dead rat?

On average, a rat takes roughly 2-3 weeks to decompose; however, lower temperatures will increase this time period significantly. Once the body has decomposed, the smell won't instantly leave your home. Instead, the foul smell will still be lingering in your home roughly two weeks later.

When should you euthanize a pet rat?

If his illness takes all his energy and concentration; if he shows no interest in food or physically can't eat, even with help; if he seems to be constantly in pain, distress, or misery; or if he has episodes of respiratory distress that cannot be controlled with medication, this is the time to say goodbye and let your ...

How to properly dispose of a dead rat?

Putting a dead rat in the bin is not recommended as it can attract other pests and cause a foul smell. Instead, it should be double-bagged and disposed of with regular household waste. It is important to check with your local waste management authority to ensure this method is allowed in your area.

How to clean up after a dead rat?

How should I handle dead rats, rat droppings, and nesting areas? - Spray dead rats, droppings, nests and surrounding areas with a 10% bleach solution (one part bleach and 9 parts water). Allow at least 15 minutes of contact time before removal. - Clean the affected area with paper towels or a mop.

What are the stages of a dead rat?

Stages of Dead Rat Decomposition
  • Fresh: This stage occurs within the first 12-36 hours after death. ...
  • Bloating: This stage occurs within the first 24-48 hours after death. ...
  • Active Decay: This stage occurs within the first 3-5 days after death. ...
  • Advanced Decay: This stage occurs within the first 1-2 weeks after death.

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