If pesticides are necessary, first-generation anticoagulants
(warfarin, chlorophacinone, and diphacinone) are better than second-generation anticoagulants but still have secondary effects on wildlife. A better option would be a product that uses bromethalin or cholecalciferol. While these products have significantly lower secondary effects on bobcats and other predators, they are potentially toxic if consumed directly by pets and can only be used inside of a tamper-resistant bait station.
Brand names of products containing these rodenticides are listed below:
- Cholecalciferol – Terad3 Blox, d-Con Pro Bait Station Blocks
- Bromethalin – Tomcat Bait Station Blocks, Victor Fast Kill Refillable Rat Bait Station
Federal law requires that all rodenticide packaging clearly display the active ingredient and instructions for use. Failure to follow the instructions on the label is a violation of state and federal law. Always check the label before using any rodenticide product.
The following four active ingredients are second-generation anticoagulants and should never be used: Brodifacoum, Bromadiolone, Difenacoum, and Difethialone.