Carbon Dioxide for Rodent Control: A Better, More Humane Solution?

Rodents can be a real headache—they damage your stuff, ruin your food, and even spread disease.

While traps and poisons are effective, there’s a better, greener way to deal with them: CO₂ pest control.

At Smith’s Pest Management, we use IGI CO₂ to safely and effectively eliminate rodents without the risk of secondary poisoning.

Curious how it works and why more pest pros are switching to this method? Let’s break it down!

What is CO₂ Pest Control?

CO₂ pest control is just what it sounds like: It uses carbon dioxide gas to quickly and humanely control rodents.

Unlike traditional poisons that take days to work (and might even harm pets or wildlife), CO₂ provides a fast, painless solution.

It’s a great option for farms, golf courses, parks, or large outdoor spaces where other methods aren’t practical.

Plus, it’s super effective for all kinds of burrowing rodents, including the following:

• Gophers
• Ground squirrels
• Norwegian rats
• Groundhogs
• Moles
• Voles

Here’s a quick overview of how it works:

Exterminators use gas to fill the rodents’ tunnels or burrows, removing oxygen and causing the critters to pass out before they die.

This method is seen as humane because it reduces suffering and is similar to how CO₂ is used for euthanasia in vets and labs.

Why is CO₂ for Rodent Control a Better Option Than Poisons and Baits?

1. It’s Humane and Ethical

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) recognizes CO₂ as an acceptable method for euthanizing rodents when appropriately administered.

The bottom line is that it works quickly and doesn’t cause prolonged suffering, which makes it a better option than traditional poisoning methods.

2. It’s Eco-Friendly and Non-Toxic

At Smith’s, we focus on humane and eco-friendly pest control, which is one of the main reasons we use CO₂.

Unlike rodenticides, which can harm other animals through the food chain, CO₂ leaves no toxic residue.

This means no risk of secondary poisoning, so pets, birds, and wildlife stay safe, even if they eat a rodent.

3. It’s Highly Effective for Burrowing Rodents

CO₂ is great for getting rid of underground rodents because it flows through their tunnels, reaching places traps and poisons can’t.

It’s an effective way to control gophers, ground squirrels, and burrowing rats.

4. There’s No Need for Cleanup

One big problem with traditional traps?

Dealing with dead rodents afterward. It’s not exactly pleasant.

With CO₂, the rodents stay in their burrows, so there’s no messy cleanup or disposal to worry about.

5. It’s Safe for Use in Sensitive Areas

CO₂ is a fantastic choice for places like organic farms, schools, parks, and food storage facilities where using toxic chemicals just isn’t an option.

Because it naturally dissipates, there’s no need to worry about lingering contamination or harmful residues.

What to Consider Before Using CO₂ for Rodents

While CO₂ rodent control is an effective and humane method, keep these things in mind:

1. Safety First

CO₂ must be used carefully because high concentrations can be harmful if inhaled in enclosed spaces.

Our trained team uses precision tools to apply the right amount of CO₂ safely and effectively.

We follow strict guidelines to ensure the gas is only used in targeted burrow systems, keeping people, pets, and other wildlife safe from accidental exposure.

2. It’s Not Ideal for Every Situation

CO₂ works best for burrowing rodents like gophers, rats, and ground squirrels.

That said, it’s not as effective for above-ground rodents like house mice, which tend to nest in walls and attics.

3. Using it Requires Specialized Equipment

Unlike snap traps or bait stations that you can easily set up yourself, CO₂ treatments require specialized tools, equipment, and proper training to be effective.

These treatments are complex and not something you can easily manage alone.

To ensure the job is done safely and correctly, it’s best to rely on professionals like Smith’s who have the expertise and experience needed for these solutions.

4. It Doesn’t Prevent Future Infestations

CO₂ eliminates rodents present during treatment, but it doesn’t stop new ones from moving in.

Exclusion methods and habitat modifications should be part of the overall pest management strategy to maintain long-term rodent control.

How Pest Professionals Like Smith’s Pest Management Use CO₂

At Smith’s Pest Management, we’re all about smart, eco-friendly ways to handle pests.

That’s why we use IGI CO₂, a reliable system for professional rodent control.

Here’s the process our team follows:

1. Find the Problem: First, we inspect the area, find active rodent burrows, and determine the size of the issue.
2. Take Action: Then, we use special equipment to inject CO₂ into the burrows, ensuring that it spreads throughout the system.
3. Keep Them Out – After treatment, we keep an eye out for any lingering rodents and take steps to prevent them from coming back.

Trust Smith’s Pest Management for Professional & Eco-Friendly Pest Control

Are you looking for a better way to get rid of rodents?

CO₂ rodent control is a safe, humane, and eco-friendly alternative to traditional methods.

It’s non-toxic, works quickly, and won’t harm other animals or the environment.

If you’re in the San Francisco Bay Area or Central Coast and want a practical, responsible solution, Smith’s Pest Management has you covered.

Our team specializes in integrated pest management solutions from Marin to Monterey to keep your property rodent-free—without unnecessary chemicals.

Call us today at (408) 871-6988 to learn more about our pest management control services or request your free quote!