Health Risks from Raccoons
Raccoons can transmit several diseases that pose risks to humans and pets, primarily through bites, scratches, or contact with their waste. Rabies is a significant concern, as raccoons are primary carriers of this viral disease that affects the central nervous system in many parts of North America. Animals infected with rabies may exhibit unusual behaviors, such as disorientation, staggering, paralysis, or uncharacteristic aggression, including foaming at the mouth.
In humans, rabies symptoms initially resemble the flu, progressing to neurological signs like confusion, hallucinations, and paralysis. The disease is fatal if untreated. Prompt medical attention and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) after potential exposure are essential to prevent progression.
Raccoon roundworm, caused by the parasite Baylisascaris procyonis, is another health risk. Raccoons commonly carry these worms, shedding microscopic eggs in their feces. If humans, especially children, accidentally ingest these eggs from contaminated soil, water, or objects, the larvae can migrate through the body, potentially causing severe neurological damage, blindness, or even death.
Bacterial infections like leptospirosis are less common but can spread through contact with urine-contaminated water or soil. This bacterium can cause fever, muscle pain, and kidney damage in humans and pets. Raccoons can also carry canine distemper, a viral disease that severely affects dogs and other carnivores, though it does not transmit to humans.
When Raccoons Pose a Threat
While raccoons are generally not aggressive, certain circumstances can cause them to act defensively or unpredictably, posing a threat to humans and pets. A primary concern arises when a raccoon is sick, especially with diseases like rabies or canine distemper. These illnesses can alter an animal’s behavior, leading to disorientation, uncoordinated movements, or an unusual lack of fear towards humans.
It is important to note that a raccoon active during daylight hours is not automatically rabid; they may be foraging, moving their young, or simply seeking food. However, any raccoon exhibiting unusual daytime behavior, such as circling, self-mutilation, or staggering, should be viewed with caution as these are signs of illness. A mother raccoon will defend her young if she perceives a threat to her den or offspring. When cornered or trapped, any wild animal, including a raccoon, may lash out in self-defense, biting or scratching to escape.
Raccoons habituated to human presence and food sources can become bolder. If these animals have learned to associate humans with easy meals, they might become assertive or even aggressive if denied the food they expect. This habituation can lead to them approaching closer than is safe, especially if accustomed to being fed. Direct confrontation, such as attempting to pet or capture a raccoon, will almost always result in a defensive attack.
How to Avoid Dangerous Situations
Minimizing potential conflicts with raccoons begins with eliminating accessible food sources around your home. Secure all outdoor trash cans with tight-fitting, locking lids or store them in a garage or shed until collection day. Pet food and water bowls should be brought indoors, especially overnight, to prevent attracting raccoons and other wildlife. If you have fruit trees, promptly harvest ripe fruit and clear any fallen produce from the ground.
Preventing raccoons from establishing dens on your property is another effective deterrent. Inspect your home, shed, and other outdoor structures for entry points, such as uncapped chimneys, loose attic vents, or damaged crawl space openings, and seal them. Trimming tree branches that offer easy access to your roof can also help prevent raccoons from climbing onto your home.
Maintaining a respectful distance from wild raccoons is important for safety. Never attempt to approach, feed, or pet a raccoon, even if it appears docile or friendly. Always supervise pets when they are outdoors, especially at night, and ensure they are up-to-date on all vaccinations, including rabies. If you encounter a raccoon, slowly back away without turning your back or making sudden movements.
If a raccoon appears sick, injured, or exhibits unusually aggressive behavior, it is important to contact your local animal control agency or health department. These authorities are equipped to handle potentially dangerous wildlife encounters safely and humanely. Avoid direct contact with the animal and prevent pets from approaching it.