Rabies is a severe viral infection that targets the central nervous system of mammals. In North America, the Raccoon Rabies Virus Variant is the most commonly reported strain in wildlife, making raccoons a primary carrier. The virus is typically transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal, most often via a bite, and is almost always fatal once clinical symptoms appear. Recognizing the abnormal behavioral and physical signs of this infection is important for public safety.
Key Behavioral Warning Signs
A significant change in a raccoon’s behavior is often the first indicator of rabies infection. Raccoons are naturally nocturnal and shy; while daytime activity alone does not confirm rabies, unusual behavior combined with daytime activity is a strong warning sign. A rabid raccoon may lose its natural fear of humans or pets, approaching them without hesitation.
This loss of wariness can manifest as either extreme aggression or unnatural tameness. The aggressive, or “furious,” form causes unprovoked attacks on people, pets, or other animals. Conversely, the “dumb” or paralytic form can cause a raccoon to appear lethargic, confused, or unusually friendly, a behavior that is equally dangerous.
The neurological damage also leads to a lack of coordination and disorientation. An infected animal may stumble, stagger, or walk in circles, suggesting severe impairment of motor skills. They may also make strange, excessive noises, such as high-pitched cries, snarling, or growling, indicating neurological distress.
Physical Manifestations of Rabies
As the rabies virus progresses, it causes observable physical symptoms reflecting damage to the central nervous system. A common sign is excessive salivation or drooling, which may appear as foaming at the mouth. This symptom results from the virus impairing the muscles used for swallowing.
The infection often leads to partial or complete paralysis, particularly affecting the hind legs, causing the animal to drag its limbs or move with difficulty. In later stages, the animal may appear generally ill, with matted fur around the face from the excessive drooling, or exhibit signs of self-mutilation.
Rabies and the Ability to Eat or Drink
The ability of a rabid raccoon to eat relates directly to the physical effects of the disease on the throat muscles. In later stages, the virus causes progressive paralysis of the pharynx and larynx, the muscles necessary for swallowing. This impairment makes it difficult or impossible for the animal to consume food or water.
The inability to swallow, or dysphagia, causes excessive drooling, as saliva accumulates. This symptom is historically linked to “hydrophobia,” or fear of water, which is actually the painful spasm that occurs when the infected animal attempts to drink. The physical paralysis prevents successful ingestion, even if the animal feels the urge to eat or drink.
Reporting and Safety Protocols
When a raccoon exhibits abnormal behaviors or physical signs, it should be treated as potentially rabid. The most important safety protocol is to maintain a safe and substantial distance, never attempting to approach, feed, or capture the animal. Avoid all physical contact, as the virus can be transmitted through a bite, scratch, or contact with saliva on broken skin or mucous membranes.
If a potentially rabid animal is sighted, immediately contact local animal control or public health officials for professional removal and testing. Ensure that pets are up-to-date on their rabies vaccinations, as this provides a buffer against the disease spreading from wildlife. Keep pets secured and do not leave pet food or unsecured garbage outdoors, which can unintentionally attract wildlife to residential areas.
If a person or pet is bitten, scratched, or exposed to the saliva of a wild animal, immediate action is necessary. Thoroughly wash the wound with soap and water for several minutes and seek medical attention at once. Post-exposure prophylaxis is highly effective at preventing the disease if administered before symptoms begin.