Raccoons are common in urban and suburban environments, known for their adaptability and distinctive masked faces. Recognizing signs of illness in these wild animals is important for public safety and their well-being. Unusual physical characteristics or behaviors can indicate a health issue.
Key Visual Indicators of Illness
A raccoon’s physical appearance can offer clues about its health. Healthy raccoons typically have thick, well-maintained fur. A sick raccoon, however, may display matted, dirty, or unkempt fur, appearing sparse with visible sores. Discharge from the eyes or nose, ranging from watery to thick, yellow, or green, is another concerning sign.
The animal might also show visible injuries or swelling on its body. Emaciation or significant weight loss can be a symptom of underlying health problems. A sick raccoon may also have a bloated appearance. In advanced stages of illness, skin on the nose or footpads might become hardened, a condition known as hyperkeratosis.
Physical movement can also reveal illness. A sick raccoon may exhibit an unusual posture or gait, such as staggering, stumbling, or walking with a “drunken” gait. Difficulty walking, or even paralysis, particularly affecting the hind legs, suggests a severe condition. These indicators can often be observed from a safe distance.
Behavioral Red Flags
Beyond physical signs, abnormal behaviors indicate a raccoon’s ill health. A sick raccoon may appear disoriented or confused, wandering aimlessly or in circles. It might also seem lethargic or unresponsive, showing a significant decrease in activity.
Ill raccoons might lose their natural fear of humans, appearing unusually tame or even approaching people without hesitation. Conversely, unprovoked aggression is a serious red flag. Some sick raccoons may engage in self-mutilation.
Unusual vocalizations, such as constant crying, screaming, or high-pitched vocalizations, can signal distress or illness. Classic signs of certain diseases include excessive drooling or foaming at the mouth. A sick raccoon might also experience seizures, tremors, or chewing fits. It may hide or remain in one place for extended periods.
Understanding Normal Raccoon Behavior
Raccoons are primarily nocturnal, meaning they are most active during the night. However, seeing a raccoon during daylight hours does not automatically mean it is sick. Healthy raccoons may forage for food during the day, particularly nursing mothers. Their activity patterns can also shift due to urbanization or when seeking new den sites.
These animals are omnivores and highly opportunistic, consuming a wide variety of foods. They are known to raid garbage cans, gardens, and outdoor pet food dishes. Raccoons possess high intelligence, curiosity, and problem-solving abilities, often using their dexterous paws.
Raccoons are generally shy around humans, with their initial instinct being to flee when encountered. However, in urban areas, they can become habituated to human presence, especially if food sources are readily available. While not true hibernators, raccoons may enter a state of torpor during colder winter months, emerging during milder spells to forage.
Steps to Take When You Spot a Sick Raccoon
If you encounter a raccoon that appears sick or behaves unusually, maintaining a safe distance is important. Do not approach, attempt to feed, or try to capture the animal. Direct contact with wild animals can pose risks to human health and safety.
Contacting local authorities is the appropriate course of action. You should reach out to your local animal control, a wildlife rehabilitator, or a relevant state wildlife agency. These professionals are equipped to handle sick or injured wildlife safely and effectively. If a person or pet has been bitten or scratched, contact your local county health department immediately.
To reduce the likelihood of attracting raccoons to your property, secure all outdoor food sources, including garbage cans with tight-fitting lids and outdoor pet food. Ensuring domestic pets are up-to-date on vaccinations, particularly for rabies and distemper, also helps safeguard them from potential disease transmission.