10 Best Outdoor Rat Traps 2025 in the United States

The OWLTRA OW-7 Electric Rodent Trap is designed to effectively eliminate both mice and rats, making it a versatile solution for various rodent issues. One of its significant strengths is the dual power option, allowing you to use either 4 D batteries or a USB cord. This flexibility can be handy, especially if you run out of batteries. However, it's important to note that batteries are not included, and the USB cord does not charge the device but must stay connected during use.

The trap is quite efficient, with a single set of batteries capable of killing up to 60 rodents, making it suitable for dealing with larger infestations. It also includes a sound and light alarm, alerting you when a rodent has been caught, which is convenient for timely maintenance. The waterproof cover with a grade of IPX4 means it can withstand some outdoor conditions, though it must be kept on a clean, dry surface and not submerged in water.

Safety features like the bait door ensure ease of use and minimize the risk of accidental contact with the electric components. The trap's size is suitable for both mice and rats, but its relatively large dimensions might be cumbersome in tighter spaces. The OWLTRA OW-7 is a powerful and flexible rodent trap that is best suited for those who need an effective solution for both indoor and outdoor areas, provided they can manage its size and power requirements.

The Catchmaster Jumbo Rat & Mouse Glue Traps come ready to use with large adhesive surfaces (81 square inches) designed to catch rats, mice, spiders, and other crawling pests. Their jumbo size means they cover more area than typical glue traps, which can increase the chance to catch pests on known pathways. These traps are disposable and work without bait, as adding bait can reduce their stickiness.

They are made of paper material with a plastic adhesive layer, which limits their durability outdoors; while they can be used in enclosed outdoor areas, they are best suited for indoor or protected spots since exposure to rain or direct elements will reduce effectiveness. The traps are odorless and can last up to a year in normal indoor conditions, making them a low-maintenance option. For safety, they are non-toxic but sticky, so contact with pets or children should be avoided; glue residue can be removed safely with vegetable or mineral oil if accidental contact occurs.

These traps do not require complex setup and can be placed along walls every 4 to 6 feet for good coverage. Since they are single-use and paper-based, they are not very reusable and must be replaced once covered with pests. These traps provide a simple, bait-free, and effective solution for people needing an easy-to-use option indoors or in sheltered outdoor spaces but may not be ideal for fully exposed outdoor environments or for those wanting reusable options.

The Tomcat Rat Snap Trap is a strong choice for outdoor rat control, especially if you want a reusable and durable trap. It uses a snap-style mechanism that quickly kills rats, with interlocking teeth designed to prevent escapes. Made from high-impact plastic and rust-resistant metal parts, it holds up well against weather, which is important for outdoor use.

The traps come in an 8-pack, giving you multiple chances to catch rats without having to constantly buy new ones. Setting the trap is straightforward and safe, as you can bait it using a removable cup without triggering the trap accidentally. The size is practical for typical rat species, and the bait cup allows you to use various baits, adding flexibility.

The trap is somewhat larger than traditional snap traps, which might make placement in tight spaces a little trickier. Also, while it’s reusable, you do need to clean it carefully between uses to keep it effective and hygienic. This makes it well-suited for homeowners or gardeners looking for a reliable, reusable solution to manage rat problems outdoors.