Call for Professional Help: Contact pest control. They have the right tools and procedures to handle the situation safely and effectively.
Handle with Care: If the rat is deceased, use gloves to remove it, place it in a sealed bag, and dispose of it properly. Don’t forget to disinfect the area thoroughly.
Avoid Flushing: Don’t flush the rat, whether it’s alive or dead. It’s not humane if it’s alive and could lead to serious plumbing issues if it’s dead.
Prevent Future Incidents: Install a non-return valve in your sewer system to keep rodents from entering. Regularly check your plumbing to ensure there are no easy access points.
Since learning about this, I’ve become more vigilant—perhaps overly so—checking the toilet more often than necessary. As for moving, let’s just say I’ve been browsing real estate listings more frequently.
So, are you convinced? Rats in the toilet aren’t just an urban legend; they can be a real issue. But with proper precautions and knowledge, you can handle these unexpected visitors confidently. Stay alert, stay informed, and maybe keep a heavy book near the bathroom just in case.