Are Raccoons Dangerous?
Yes, raccoons can be dangerous for many different reasons, such as the diseases they carry and the risk of injury to your pets. Though they look cute and curious, be aware of the dangers these nocturnal creatures can pose.ย
Raccoons are commonly encountered in urban and suburban areas. Understanding raccoon behaviors and the risks they pose can help ensure the safety of both humans and pets.ย
Raccoon Dangers to Be Aware Of
Here are a few known risks that you should be aware of:
- Raccoons can carry rabies. Raccoons are a primary carrier of rabies, a viral disease that can be transmitted to humans and animals through bites or scratches. It’s important to be careful and steer clear of raccoons to reduce the chance of rabies exposure.
- Raccoons can exhibit aggressive behavior. Raccoons can act aggressively in some situations. This often happens when they feel threatened or trapped. A cornered raccoon might attack to defend itself. This can be dangerous, especially if a mother is protecting her young.
- Raccoons can cause property damage. Raccoons are notorious for their ability to cause property damage. They can tear through roofs, insulation, and siding in search of food or shelter. Raccoons frequently nest in attics, chimneys, and crawl spaces. This can result in structural damage and pose fire hazards.
- Raccoons love trash raids. Raccoons are scavengers. They often dig through trash cans for food. This not only creates a mess but also poses a threat to public health by spreading diseases and attracting other pests.
- Raccoons can carry and transmit various diseases. Raccoons can carry several diseases, not just rabies. These include leptospirosis, roundworm, and canine distemper. Touching raccoon feces or urine can pass on these diseases. So itโs important to clean up and dispose of them carefully.
- Raccoons can pose a threat to pets. Raccoons may pose a threat to pets, especially if provoked. Raccoons can carry diseases that affect pets, and encounters between raccoons and domestic animals can lead to injuries. So keep pets indoors or supervise outdoor activities to mitigate these risks.
Which diseases do raccoons carry?
As primary carriers of the rabies virus, raccoons present a significant health hazard to your pets. This fatal disease spreads through saliva from bites or through open wounds from scratches. Another viral disease they carry is distemper, which pets are most at risk for.
They also carry bacterial diseases, such as Leptospirosis and Salmonellosis. Additionally, they can harbor parasitic diseases like raccoon roundworm (Baylisascaris procyonis) and Toxoplasmosis.
Without proper immunization, you, your family, and your pets are at risk for infections. Fortunately, regular medical care and up-to-date vaccinations offer strong protection against these serious illnesses.
How can you tell if a raccoon has rabies?
Certain signs can indicate that a raccoon has rabies, including:
- Self-mutilation
- Discharge from their eyes or mouth
- Wet and matted facial fur
- Repeated high-pitched sounds
- Oblivious to noise or movement (that would normally startle it)
- Erratic wandering
- Staggering
What to Do if You Are Attacked or Bitten By a Raccoonย
If youโve been bitten, scratched, or attacked by a raccoon, prioritize your health. Clean the wound well with soap and water. Then, get medical help right away to check for rabies and other infections.
Encounters With Pets
If you let your pets outside, you must watch them closely. This is especially important in areas where raccoons are often seen.
With Dogs
When dogs encounter raccoons on your property, the results can be devastating. Your dog might stumble upon a raccoon’s home under the deck or in a shed, which could cause a dangerous clash. Sadly, these encounters have led to serious injuries for smaller dogs.
With Cats
Your outdoor cats face similar dangers from raccoon encounters. Raccoons usually donโt hunt cats. However, if a curious cat gets too close, it might provoke a defensive attack. Raccoons have strong muscles, sharp claws, and powerful jaws that can seriously hurt or even kill cats.
How to Keep Raccoons Away From Your Property
To keep raccoons away from your property, follow these effective tips:
- Secure trash bins. Use animal-proof containers and avoid leaving trash bags outside.
- Remove outdoor food. Bring in pet food and water bowls, and clean up spilled birdseed.
- Seal entry points. Close off potential entry areas like attics, chimneys, and crawl spaces.
- Install motion-activated lights. Deter raccoons with bright, motion-activated lighting.
- Use fencing. Install fences around potential raccoon targets, such as gardens or trash bins.
- Trim trees and bushes. Trim branches that provide easy access to roofs and other entry points.
- Employ repellents. Use commercial or homemade repellents with strong odors.
- Keep your property clean. Maintain a tidy yard, removing debris and fallen fruit.
- Get professional wildlife exclusion services. If raccoons persistently invade your property, consider enlisting the expertise of professional wildlife exclusion services.ย
Our team at Arrow Exterminating does thorough property assessments. We use humane removal methods and create tailored exclusion solutions to help stop future infestations. Our expertise helps create a long-term plan to keep your property free from wildlife.
Dealing with raccoons? Call Arrow Exterminating!
Donโt let raccoons disrupt your peace of mind. Trust the professionals at Arrow Exterminating to handle any raccoon-related concerns effectively. Whether youโre dealing with a current raccoon problem or want to proactively safeguard your property, our expert team is ready to assist.
