Tomcat Rat Snap Trap Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

The Tomcat Rat Snap Trap is designed for effective rat control. This trap features a powerful, aggressive design that is easy to set by hand or foot. It includes a removable bait cup for convenient baiting without setting the trap, and patented interlocking teeth to prevent escape. This manual provides detailed instructions for safe and effective use of your Tomcat Rat Snap Trap.

Image 1.1: Tomcat Rat Snap Trap in an open position, showing the bait cup and snap mechanism.

2. Safety Warnings

WARNING: This trap is powerful and can cause injury if not handled properly. Read all instructions before use.

• Always handle the trap with extreme caution. The snap mechanism is strong and can cause injury to fingers or other body parts.
• Keep traps out of reach of children and pets. Place traps in locations inaccessible to them, or use protective covers if necessary.
• Avoid placing fingers or hands near the snap mechanism when the trap is set or being set.
• Wear gloves when handling caught rodents and disposing of them to prevent contact with potential diseases.
• After use, dispose of caught rodents and the trap (if not reusing) according to local regulations.

3. Components

The Tomcat Rat Snap Trap consists of the following main components:

• Trap Body: The main plastic structure of the trap.
• Snap Mechanism: The spring-loaded jaw that closes rapidly to capture the rodent.
• Bait Cup: A removable cup located on the underside of the trap for holding bait.
• Trigger Plate: The platform that activates the snap mechanism when pressure is applied.

Image 3.1: Detailed view of the Tomcat Rat Snap Trap, highlighting the bait area and snap mechanism.

4. Setup

Follow these steps to prepare and set your Tomcat Rat Snap Trap:

1. Baiting the Trap:
   • Locate the removable bait cup on the underside of the trap.
   • Twist and pull the bait cup out from the bottom of the trap.
   • Place a small amount of bait (e.g., peanut butter, nuts, or pet food) into the bait cup. Do not overfill.
   • Reinsert the bait cup by twisting it back into place from the bottom. This allows baiting without setting the trap, reducing risk.
   

   Image 4.1: Demonstrating the removal of the bait cup from the trap's base.

2. Setting the Trap:
   • Place the trap on a flat, stable surface.
   • Using your hand or foot, press down firmly on the setting lever at the back of the trap until it clicks into the open, set position. Ensure your fingers are clear of the snap mechanism.
   • The trap is now armed and ready for placement.
   

   Image 4.2: A hand demonstrating how to set the trap by pressing down on the lever.

Video: How to Use Tomcat Rat Snap Trap

Video 4.3: An official video from The Scotts Company LLC demonstrating the proper way to use the Tomcat Rat Snap Trap, including baiting and setting.

5. Operating Instructions

Effective placement is key to successful rat control:

1. Placement:
   • Place the set trap along walls, in corners, or wherever rodent activity (droppings, gnaw marks) is observed. Rats tend to travel along edges.
   • Ensure the bait end of the trap is facing the wall.
   • For outdoor use, consider securing the trap to prevent it from being dragged away by a caught rodent or other animals.
   

   Image 5.1: A Tomcat Rat Snap Trap positioned against a wall, an ideal placement for rodent pathways.

2. Checking the Trap:
   • Check the trap regularly, preferably daily.
   • If a rodent is caught, proceed to disposal.
   

   Image 5.2: A hand inspecting a triggered rat trap.

3. Disposal:
   • To dispose of a caught rodent, simply squeeze the setting lever to release the rodent directly into a trash receptacle without touching it.
   • If a rodent is not immediately dispatched, further action may be required for humane disposal.

6. Maintenance

The Tomcat Rat Snap Trap is designed for reusability. After disposing of a caught rodent, the trap can be re-baited and reset. Clean the trap with warm, soapy water if necessary, ensuring all bait residue is removed. Allow it to dry completely before re-baiting and resetting.

7. Troubleshooting

• Bait is gone, but trap is not tripped:
  • This can occur if smaller rodents (like mice) are able to access the bait without applying enough pressure to the trigger plate.
  • Ensure the bait is firmly placed within the bait cup, making it harder for rodents to remove without triggering the trap.
  • Consider using a stickier bait like peanut butter that requires more effort to consume.
• Trap disappears or is moved:
  • For outdoor use, or in areas where larger animals might interfere, the trap can be dragged away.
  • To prevent this, secure the trap to the ground or a fixed object using wire or stakes through the holes in the base of the trap.
• Trap not setting properly:
  • Ensure there is no debris obstructing the snap mechanism.
  • Apply firm, even pressure when setting the trap until you hear a distinct click.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty & Support

For specific warranty information or product support, please refer to the packaging or contact Tomcat customer service directly. Keep your purchase receipt for any warranty claims.

Manufacturer: The Scotts Company LLC