2. Herbs & Spices
You can sprinkle spices like cinnamon, black pepper, and cayenne pepper around the outside of your house. Because of their potent smells, growing herbs like mint, basil, and rosemary in the garden can also help deter rodents.
Organize
Rats are less drawn to a tidy and well-kept home and garden. Ensure that you:
Remove any trash from your garden and cut back any overgrown plants.
Food should be kept refrigerated and should not be left out overnight for pets.
Make sure trash cans are tightly closed and dispose of waste on a regular basis.
Seal Points of Entry
Rats are surprisingly adept at fitting through tight areas. Look for any holes or gaps in your house and fill them in with caulk, wire wool, or metal sheeting. Pay close attention to the areas surrounding windows, vents, and pipes.
