Why Rats Love Compost (And How to Stop Them)

Why Rats Love Compost (And How to Stop Them)

Visual idea: Split graphic showing 🔴 Problem side - Rat crawling into open bin with food scraps 🟢 Solution side - Sealed tumbler with only plant matter
3 Critical Mistakes That Invite Rats
  1. Meat/dairy composting (High-protein = rat buffet)
  2. Infrequent turning (Slow decay = longer smell attraction)
  3. Ground contact (Direct soil access = easy burrowing)

5 Rat-Proofing Strategies

Tumbler upgrade - Metal rotating bins resist chewing ✅ Electric composter hack - Moreborn processes scraps in 4hrs (No lingering smells) ✅ Browns layering - 2:1 ratio of leaves/cardboard to food waste ✅ Chili barrier - Sprinkle cayenne pepper around bin perimeter ✅ Winter protocol - Bury scraps deeper in cold months (Rodents seek warmth)

FAQ Section

Q: Will worms in my compost attract rats? A: No – worms eat decomposed matter, not fresh scraps. Rats hunt for unbroken food.
Q: Are rats a sign of failed composting? A: Not necessarily! It means you need better pest management (see our solutions above).
Q: Can I use rat poison near compost? A: ❌ Never – toxins enter your soil. Use ultrasonic repellents instead.
Pro Tip: Urban composters should opt for Bokashi fermentation – acidic pre-compost repels rodents.

 

Back to blog

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.