10 Best Rat Traps 2026 in the United States

The OWLTRA OW-7 is an electric rodent trap designed for both indoor and outdoor use, suitable for catching mice and rats thanks to its larger size. It uses a quick electric zap to kill rodents instantly, which many find more humane than traditional snap traps. You can power it with either 4 D batteries or a USB connection, offering flexibility depending on your setup. It comes with a waterproof cover rated IPX4, which is essential for safe outdoor use, but you must remember to always use this cover outside to protect the electronics. The trap has a sound and light alarm that alerts you when a rodent has been caught, making cleanup more convenient. Baiting is straightforward, with a small compartment where you place attractive foods like peanut butter.

In terms of safety, the side entrance reduces the chance of pets or children accidentally triggering it, but it still requires caution due to the electric shock feature. The trap is reusable and can handle about 60 rodents on fresh batteries before needing replacements, which makes it economical and environmentally friendlier than single-use traps. Cleanup involves removing the dead rodent, which the alarm helps you remember promptly. The size is moderate and should fit comfortably in typical rodent-prone areas, but to be most effective, placement on a clean, dry surface is necessary.

Drawbacks include that batteries are not included, and the USB option requires a continuous power source, which might limit placement options. Some users note that the alarm can be triggered accidentally or may be too quiet in noisy environments. This trap suits anyone looking for a reusable, electric solution that can be used both indoors and outdoors, especially in places where humane and quick rodent control is preferred.

The Tomcat Rat Snap Trap is a reusable snap-style trap designed to kill rats quickly and effectively. It features strong, interlocking teeth that make it almost impossible for rats to escape once caught. Made from high-impact plastic and rust-resistant metal, the trap can be used multiple times without wearing out, which helps save money over time. Setting the trap is fairly easy—you can do it by hand or foot—and the removable bait cup allows you to add bait without accidentally triggering the trap, adding a safety layer for users, especially those concerned about snapping their fingers.

The traps are compact enough to place in common rat hiding spots, and the pack comes with eight traps, ideal for covering multiple areas. Since it is a snap trap, careful placement is necessary to avoid accidental contact with children or pets, so safety precautions are important. Cleanup involves handling the dead rat, which some may find unpleasant, but the reusable design means fewer traps need to be discarded. This trap is non-electronic, avoiding the need for batteries or complicated setup, making it a reliable, reusable, and non-toxic option for rat control with moderate ease and good safety features when used properly.

The Catchmaster Jumbo Rat & Mouse Glue Traps are large adhesive boards designed to catch rats, mice, spiders, and other crawling pests indoors. They are ready to use straight from the package—just pull apart and place them along walls or pathways where pests travel. One of their strong points is their sizeable sticky area (about 81 square inches), which improves the chances of trapping rodents. These traps can last up to a year if kept in normal indoor conditions, even in damp places like basements or bathrooms. They are safe in homes with kids or pets because any accidental glue contact can be cleaned with vegetable or mineral oil. The traps come in packs of six, making them handy for covering multiple locations or larger areas.

However, glue traps are generally messier compared to snap traps, as they require disposal of the trapped pest and the sticky board itself. Also, they are single-use and not reusable, which means ongoing costs. Since these traps rely on stickiness rather than poison or electric shock, they are quieter and chemical-free but require regular checking to avoid unpleasant situations with trapped, living pests. Placement is key; these boards should be set along walls every 4-6 feet and not baited, as bait reduces their effectiveness.

These glue traps are well suited for people looking for a non-toxic, easy-to-set pest control method inside the home or garage, especially where other traps or poisons aren't suitable. They are less ideal for those who want a reusable trap or prefer no contact with trapped animals.