Rats are often seen as vermin, but the RSPCA is urging people to see them in a different light – and even consider them as pets.
Studies show that rats are capable of thinking and experiencing things such as pleasure, pain and distress.
These smart little rodents can be trained to play games – and can even outperform humans in certain tasks.
But every year, several million rats in the UK alone endure slow and painful deaths after being poisoned or caught in back-breaking traps.
To mark World Rat Day, the RSPCA has called for more humane methods of deterrence to be considered.
Emma Horton, a scientific officer at the charity, said: “Like humans, rats enjoy play, they laugh when tickled and have been trained to run agility courses, fetch a ball and give high-fives.
“There are numerous valid reasons for controlling rodent populations – including to protect food supplies, for disease control and to prevent damage to buildings.
“However, in many cases, simple and effective methods can be used to deter rats humanely without ever having to resort to lethal control.”
Back-break traps are generally considered to be more humane than poisoning, which can take days to have an effect.
But rats caught in traps have been known to rip out their fur and even gnaw through their own limbs in a desperate bid to escape.
Emma claims there are plenty of things people can do to keep rats away from their homes, however.
She said: “An important first step is limiting available food outside, so invest in rodent-proof bins, declutter and keep storage areas tidy.
“Rodents don’t like change, so moving around objects such as garden furniture will also deter them.
“Leftover bird food or food in compost heaps may attract rats so if problems arise, try removing the food sources and cut back any vegetation acting as cover.
“The same applies inside buildings. Ensure food is secured away, crumbs are tidied and holes are blocked.”
Hyacinths, alliums and daffodils also act as natural repellents – and cotton wool soaked in peppermint, eucalyptus or spearmint oil can also be effective.
For more information about humane deterrence, see the RSPCA’s Living with Rats and Mice factsheet.
