Rat problem

[Lady Masa]

Looking for advice.
I keep my guinea pigs putside in a shed that has 3 floors (starts about 40cm or 15.7inches of the floor) with a hutch joined throught a cat door opening customised to be safe for them (also its about 50cm or 23.6inches of the ground on thick wooden sticks).

The problem is my neighbours keep lots of trash and old furniture trash outside which attracts rats and it has been a recurring
problem. They managed to get into the shed opposite the guinea pigs and are spotted running in our garden near the fence. I tried being nice and talked to them about the problem but it did not help. I have a rat box from the council (from UK) and wanted to put poison in it but due to the free roaming cats passing through our proprety I dont think its safe. Looked online but any rat detterents i found could be harmful to my guinea pigs as they would be close to it either due to the sound of the electronic ultrasonic detterent or smell like mothballs.
I am very worried about them as I dont have anywhere else to put them. Additionally as it is winter I have a small portable radiator there which I am worried to put on as the heat may attract them. Any advice on what I can do is much appreciated. Thank you.

 

[Roselina]

Gosh that’s difficult
Unfortunately it’s a fact of life Rats are very successful and are everywhere.
I’d recommend trying to reinforce your shed - adding extra wood/thick wire ?
Making it difficult for the Rats to get near.
Make sure there is never food outside to attract them
If you’ve spoken to your neighbours it is difficult because if you go to your local Council , which you are entitled to do, it could cause a fallout with those neighbours and long term consequences.
I’m sure other members will have more experience of what to do and will offer advice
Good luck