It is good to remain alert for rats. In many cases, you may not notice the signs of an infestation until it is too late. Common signs include:  Burrows in garbage, compost piles, or near plants. Shredded nests of paper, cloth, or other materials. Small, dark droppings in garages, sheds, attics, or kitchens. Chewing damage on trees, food containers, pipes, or electronics. 1 rat, which likely means there are more. These will quickly and humanely kill rats. Check the traps daily to dispose of any dead rats before they begin to smell. You can bait the traps with small pieces of food, such as dried fruit, peanut butter, or pet food.  Do not use glue traps. Glue traps cause a slow death for rats. Place the traps near walls, under furniture, or on high shelves and ledges. Put on rubber gloves before starting. Mix 6 ounces (170 g) of bleach with 1 gallon (3.8 l; 0.83 imp gal) water and pour it into a spray bottle. Spray the nests thoroughly before sweeping them up. Make sure to remove any droppings as well.  Rat nests look like clumps of shredded paper, wood shavings, cloth, and other soft materials. They are often found in dark, enclosed areas, such as in drawers, under furniture, or beneath floorboards. The bleach will sanitize the nest so that any airborne disease particles are eliminated. Poison can kill animals other than just rats. Furthermore, animals who eat poisoned rats can still die, so it is better to use a humane trap that will kill the rat. Poison should always be used as a last resort. If you must use poison, use one that has an antidote, such as warfarin or chlorophacinone. Use a secure trap that the rat cannot escape from. In many cases, it may be best to let an expert handle the situation. They can identify what type of rat you have and the best way to get rid of them. They can also help you find the source of the rats, whether it is overgrown vegetation, gaps in your building, or food waste.

Summary: Identify signs of an infestation. Place snap traps around your home. Remove rat nests when you find them. Avoid using poison unless absolutely necessary. Call pest control before the problem gets out of hand.


Rabbits tend to thrive on routine. The best way to encourage your rabbit to play with you is to have regularly scheduled playdates.  Rabbits are generally the most active early in the morning, so this might be a good time to play with them if you're able. If not, a lot of rabbits are also active towards nighttime. Be careful when initiating playtime. Rabbits prefer to be left alone when eating, using the litter box, grooming themselves, and sleeping. If you notice your rabbit engaging in these behaviors, let him finish before initiating play. However, it's a good idea to open your rabbit's cage or pen while he's engaging in these behaviors as this signals to him that it's time to play and he can leave the cage when he's ready. You want to make sure your rabbit feels safe and comfortable with you as a playmate. You should make sure they don't perceive you as a giant.  Try to get down on the rabbit's level. You can sit, crouch, or lie down on the floor. Allow the rabbit the option of sitting on your lap or interacting with you physically. Some rabbits are cuddly and become "lap rabbits" with time, but most prefer independence during playtime. Rabbits can be timid, especially at first. You should not push playtime or certain toys if your rabbit seems uninterested. Let the rabbit adjust at his own pace.  Do not engage in rough house with a rabbit the way you would with a cat or dog. Rabbits are naturally timid and this could easily result in your rabbit feeling frightened around you.  Greet your rabbit cheerfully before you open his cage, saying his name and something friendly like, "Good morning." This way, she will associate you with pleasantness and be more likely to want to interact.  Pet your rabbit while giving him other positive feedback, such as friendly verbal cues or treats. You want him to associate your touch with safety and happiness.
Summary: Schedule regular play periods. Get down on the rabbit's level. Be patient.