Signs of Rabies in Raccoons

Raccoons are common wild animals that are often seen in urban and suburban areas. While they may look cute and cuddly, they can be dangerous and even carry rabies. It is important to know the signs of rabies in raccoons so that you can take the necessary precautions to protect yourself and your family. In this article, we will discuss the signs of rabies in raccoons, how to protect yourself, and what to do if you think a raccoon may be infected.

What is Rabies?

Rabies is a virus that is spread through the saliva of an infected animal. It is a serious and potentially fatal disease that affects the central nervous system. If left untreated, it can cause paralysis, seizures, and even death. The virus is most commonly spread through the bite of an infected animal, but it can also be spread through contact with saliva or other bodily fluids.

Signs of Rabies in Raccoons

Rabies can be difficult to detect in raccoons, as they often show no signs of illness. However, there are some signs that may indicate that a raccoon is infected with rabies. These include:

• Aggressive behavior: Rabid raccoons may be more aggressive than usual, and may attack other animals or humans without provocation.
• Foaming at the mouth: Rabid raccoons may foam at the mouth due to excessive saliva production.
• Unusual vocalizations: Rabid raccoons may make unusual vocalizations, such as hissing, growling, or screeching.
• Paralysis: Rabid raccoons may show signs of paralysis, such as difficulty walking or standing.
• Disorientation: Rabid raccoons may appear disoriented or confused, and may wander aimlessly.

If you notice any of these signs in a raccoon, it is important to contact your local animal control or wildlife rehabilitation center immediately.

How to Protect Yourself from Rabies

It is important to take precautions to protect yourself and your family from rabies. Here are some tips to help you stay safe:

• Avoid contact with wild animals: Do not approach or attempt to touch wild animals, including raccoons.
• Vaccinate your pets: Make sure your pets are up to date on their rabies vaccinations.
• Keep your distance: If you see a raccoon, stay at least 30 feet away and do not attempt to approach it.
• Secure your garbage: Make sure your garbage cans are securely closed to prevent raccoons from getting into them.
• Seal off access points: Make sure that any potential access points to your home, such as windows and doors, are securely sealed.

What to Do if You Think a Raccoon is Infected

If you think a raccoon may be infected with rabies, it is important to contact your local animal control or wildlife rehabilitation center immediately. Do not attempt to capture or handle the animal yourself, as this could put you at risk of infection. Animal control or wildlife rehabilitation centers will be able to safely capture and test the animal for rabies.

Pro Tip

If you come into contact with a raccoon, it is important to wash the area with soap and water as soon as possible. This will help to reduce the risk of infection.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the signs of rabies in raccoons?

The signs of rabies in raccoons include aggressive behavior, foaming at the mouth, unusual vocalizations, paralysis, and disorientation.

How can I protect myself from rabies?

You can protect yourself from rabies by avoiding contact with wild animals, vaccinating your pets, keeping your distance from raccoons, securing your garbage, and sealing off access points to your home.

What should I do if I think a raccoon is infected?

If you think a raccoon may be infected with rabies, it is important to contact your local animal control or wildlife rehabilitation center immediately. Do not attempt to capture or handle the animal yourself, as this could put you at risk of infection.