Rodent-Proofing Feed Storage: How to Keep Rats Out of Poultry and Livestock Feed

Why rodent-proof feed storage matters

If you keep poultry or livestock, feed is one of your biggest ongoing costs — and it’s also one of the biggest attractants for rodents.

Even if you don’t have an obvious “rat problem”, poor storage can lead to:

• Wasted feed (spilled, contaminated, damp)

• More mess around feeders

• Stress for birds/animals

• A cycle where rodents keep returning because the food source is reliable

This guide focuses on the practical side: storage, placement, and routine.

Start with the basics: what attracts rodents most

Rodents are drawn to:

• Spilled feed (especially around feeders)

• Open bags stored in sheds, barns, or feed rooms

• Warm, sheltered spots near food and water

• Easy access (gaps under doors, broken boards, clutter)

The good news: you can reduce the attraction quickly by tightening up storage and cleaning.

The best way to store feed (simple, realistic options)

1) Use sealed containers with tight-fitting lids

If you do one thing, do this.

• Move feed out of open sacks and into sealed bins/containers

• Choose containers with tight lids and solid sides

• Keep different feeds clearly labelled

If you’re upgrading your setup, start here: feed storage bins and containers.

2) Store feed off the floor

Feed stored directly on the floor is more likely to:

• Get damp

• Get contaminated

• Be easier for rodents to reach

Use shelves, pallets, or a raised platform where possible.

3) Keep the feed area tidy (less clutter = fewer hiding spots)

Clutter gives rodents places to hide and nest.

A quick win:

• Clear corners

• Move unused items out

• Keep the area around feed bins easy to sweep

Reduce spillage at the source (feeders and routines)

Storage helps, but spillage is what keeps rodents coming back.

Use feeders that reduce waste

For poultry, a good feeder setup can make a big difference.

Look for:

• Stable bases (less tipping)

• Designs that reduce scratching feed out

• Suitable size for your flock

Browse options in poultry feeders and drinkers.

Don’t leave feed out overnight

If you’re free-feeding during the day, consider removing or reducing access overnight — especially during colder months when rodents are more active around buildings.

Sweep up daily

It’s boring, but it works.

A quick daily sweep around feeders:

• Reduces the food source

• Makes activity easier to spot

• Stops damp feed building up

Keep feed dry (damp feed is a bigger problem than you think)

Damp feed:

• Spoils faster

• Can clump and become unusable

• Can attract pests

To keep feed dry:

• Store in sealed containers

• Keep lids closed

• Avoid storing feed in leaky sheds

• Keep bins away from direct ground damp

Poultry vs livestock: small differences that matter

Poultry feed

Poultry feed is often fine-textured and easy to spill.

Two big wins:

• Better feeder design

• Better storage bins

Start with poultry feed and pair it with a feeder that reduces waste.

Livestock feed

For smallholders, livestock feed and accessories often end up stored in barns or tack rooms.

If you keep sheep, it can help to keep everything in one place so you’re not leaving bags open in multiple areas: sheep feed and accessories.

What about poisons and traps?

This post focuses on prevention through storage and routine.

If you choose to use any control methods, follow the product instructions carefully and consider professional advice — especially if you have pets, poultry, or wildlife nearby.

FAQs

What’s the best container to store chicken feed?

A sealed container with a tight-fitting lid is best. Store it off the floor and keep the area clean to reduce spillage.

Will rodents eat through plastic feed bins?

Some can, especially if bins are thin or damaged. Choose sturdy containers and replace anything cracked or chewed.

How do I stop rats coming into my chicken run?

Reduce spillage, don’t leave feed out overnight, and keep feed stored in sealed containers. Also reduce clutter and hiding places.

Should I keep chicken feed in the shed?

You can, but only if it’s sealed and stored properly. Open bags in sheds are a common cause of rodent issues.

Is damp feed dangerous?

Damp feed can spoil and become unusable. If feed smells off, looks mouldy, or has been contaminated, don’t use it.

Shop the essentials

• Feed storage bins and containers

• Poultry feeders and drinkers

• Poultry feed

• Sheep feed and accessories