How Can You Tell If a Raccoon Has Rabies?

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Possible rabid raccoon photographed in North Carolina
When you see a raccoon acting strangely on your property, questions run through your mind. What if it’s diseased – and how can you tell if a raccoon has rabies? Rabies is a deadly disease that can affect raccoons and other animals including humans, posing a serious threat to your family and pets.  Understanding how to recognize a rabid raccoon in the wild is crucial. So, let’s talk about the most common signs a raccoon has hydrophobia (rabies) and what you should do about it.

What Are the Signs of a Rabid Raccoon?

Recognizing the signs of a rabid raccoon is your first line of defense in keeping your property safe. Here’s what you need to look for:
  • Aggressive behavior: Rabid raccoons may show unprovoked aggression towards humans, pets, or other animals.
  • Disorientation or staggering: Rabies affects the nervous system, causing raccoons to appear disoriented or stumble as they move.
  • Unusual noises: You may hear strange growling, snarling, or even high-pitched sounds coming from a rabid raccoon.
  • Excessive drooling or foaming at the mouth: One of the most notorious signs, foaming at the mouth, is a key indicator of rabies.
  • No fear of humans: A rabid raccoon might approach you or other people without hesitation, which is not normal behavior for these typically shy animals.
  • Daytime activity: Raccoons are nocturnal, so if you see one out and about during the day, especially if it’s behaving strangely, it could be a sign of rabies.

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What Should You Do If You Find a Raccoon with Rabies?

If you come across a raccoon showing any of these signs, your first instinct might be to take action, but it’s crucial to keep your distance. 
  • Do not approach or try to interact with the raccoon, as this can put you at serious risk. 
  • If possible, monitor its location from a safe distance 
  • Call a professional wildlife control expert like the team here at Rocket Pest Control. Our experts are trained to handle these situations safely and effectively, ensuring the safety of your home and loved ones.

How Dangerous Is a Raccoon with Rabies?

A raccoon with rabies can be extremely dangerous. The most important thing you can do is keep your distance and make sure pets or family members don’t get too close.  If you get bit or scratched, the situation can become life-threatening. Rabies is nearly 100% fatal once symptoms appear, so it’s imperative to avoid any contact with the animal. Remember, a rabid raccoon can become aggressive and unpredictable, making it vital to stay as far away as possible.

What Should You Do If You Get Bitten By a Raccoon?

If you’re bitten or scratched by a raccoon, you need to take action. Immediately wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water to reduce the risk of infection, and seek medical attention as soon as possible. Even if you’re unsure whether the raccoon has rabies, it’s better to be cautious and get the rabies shots (post-exposure prophylaxis) now rather than risk it. Rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms develop, but it can take six months or longer for symptoms to develop. The virus remains dormant in your system as it travels to your brain. Time is of the essence, so don’t delay treatment.  After you’ve taken care of your health, call us for wildlife control services to safely remove the raccoon.

Our Raccoon Control Experts Are Standing By

Rabies is a deadly disease that should never be taken lightly. Recognizing the signs of a rabid raccoon is essential for protecting your family, pets, and property.  If you suspect a raccoon on your property may have rabies, don’t hesitate to reach out to our experienced raccoon control experts. Call us today to ensure your home remains a safe haven from the dangers of rabid wildlife. Back to Wildlife Removal