The substances most toxic to rats are commercial rodenticides designed specifically to kill them, as well as certain human foods and chemicals that are poisonous to all small mammals. Among rodenticides, the most toxic are second-generation anticoagulants like brodifacoum, bromadiolone, and difethialone, which cause fatal internal bleeding even in a single feeding, and cholecalciferol which causes calcium overdose and organ failure. These are highly toxic and must be used in tamper-resistant bait stations by professionals because they are also toxic to pets, wildlife, and humans if ingested. Other chemicals highly toxic to rats include zinc phosphide, which releases phosphine gas in the stomach, and bromethalin which causes brain swelling. In terms of everyday foods toxic to pet rats, chocolate containing theobromine, caffeine, raw dried beans containing lectins, green potatoes containing solanine, onions and garlic, and alcohol can be toxic in sufficient amounts. Essential oils like tea tree oil and pennyroyal oil in concentrated forms can be toxic if inhaled or ingested. It is important to never use homemade toxic mixtures in a home with children or pets, as what is toxic to rats is often toxic to other animals and humans, and professional pest control methods with safety measures are recommended.
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