Meanwhile, recent APVMA decisions affecting SGARs (second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides) have increased focus on how control programs are planned, with new requirements around bait placement and wildlife protection highlighting the importance of structured approaches.
Developed by global innovator Bell Laboratories, the Tomcat range distributed by Amgrow provides rodenticides, bait stations and traps to support compliant rodent management across agricultural and industrial settings.
A New Option: Tomcat 24 (Bromethalin)
Tomcat 24 is a new non‑anticoagulant rodenticide powered by the active ingredient bromethalin.
Tomcat 24 is named for its fast‑acting profile, with rodent mortality occurring in as little as 24 hours, achieved by targeting the rodent’s central nervous system rather than the blood‑clotting mechanism associated with SGARs. This mode of action leads to rapid feeding cessation and effective population knockdown with limited bait consumption.
Importantly, it significantly reduces the secondary poisoning pathways which are a concern with anticoagulants and a major driver of recent regulatory change.
“Tomcat 24 saves time and money due to its effective knockdown when compared to anticoagulants,” Bell Laboratories APAC business manager Samuel Wood says.
“Rodents can consume a lethal dose in a single night’s feeding, meaning more rodents can be controlled quickly with less bait,” he explains.
Tomcat 24 also delivers new flexibility in placement.
Under the latest APVMA conditions, SGAR use is restricted to within 2m of buildings and structures.
In contrast, Tomcat 24 can be used up to 30m away, making it particularly well suited for broader site management where rodents may be active.
As rodent control continues to move toward integrated programs based on chemistry rotation and targeted placement, Tomcat 24 provides a non‑anticoagulant option that complements existing tools while maintaining performance where rapid knockdown is required.
A tried and trusted tomcat toolkit
Tomcat 24 joins the proven Tomcat range, which continues to include SGAR options which play an important role when supported by stewardship and correct usage:
- Tomcat (Green) containing bromadiolone, typically recommended for lower risk or sensitive environments.
- Tomcat II (Red) containing brodifacoum, designed for high pressure or persistent infestations requiring rapid population reduction.
Under APVMA requirements, all rodent bait must be secured in tamper‑resistant bait stations, making them essential to compliant rodent control programs.
Tomcat bait stations are designed for indoor and outdoor use, protecting bait from non‑target animals, weather and interference while improving bait longevity.
Top tips for a successful rodent baiting program
- establish multiple lines of defence: perimeter, exterior building and internal monitoring.
- always use secure, tamper resistant bait stations, fixed in place.
- place stations according to behaviour. Rats travel up to 50-100m away from their nest, while mice up to 10m.
- SGARs must not be used continuously for more than 35 days without an evaluation of the state of the infestation and of the efficacy of the treatment, reinforcing the need for regular reassessment and chemistry rotation.
Manufactured by Bell Laboratories and distributed by Amgrow, the Tomcat range supports rodent control programs that are effective and compliant.