Raccoons are fascinating creatures that have adapted well to living alongside humans in urban and suburban environments. While these animals are typically non-threatening, it is crucial to recognize when a raccoon might be exhibiting signs of rabies. Rabies is a dangerous viral disease that affects the central nervous system of mammals, including humans, and can be fatal if untreated. Let’s explore the key signs of rabies in raccoons, provide actionable advice on what to do if you encounter a rabid raccoon, and share tips for protecting your family and pets.

What Is Rabies?

Rabies is a viral infection that spreads through the saliva of infected animals, typically through bites or scratches. Once inside the body, the virus travels to the brain and spinal cord, causing severe inflammation. In North America, raccoons are one of the primary carriers of rabies, alongside bats, skunks, and foxes. While not every raccoon you see will be rabid, understanding the symptoms and risks associated with this disease is vital for your safety.

Behavioral Changes in Rabid Raccoons

One of the earliest and most noticeable indicators of rabies in raccoons is a significant change in their behavior. Healthy raccoons are nocturnal animals, meaning they are most active at night and tend to avoid human contact. However, a rabid raccoon may exhibit the following behaviors:

• Aggression: A rabid raccoon may become unusually aggressive, attacking humans, pets, or other animals without provocation. This aggression is a result of the virus affecting the animal’s brain.
• Unusual Friendliness: In some cases, rabid raccoons may display the opposite of aggression—approaching humans in an unnaturally friendly or fearless manner. This is highly uncharacteristic of healthy raccoons, which are typically wary of people.
• Disorientation: Rabid raccoons may appear confused or disoriented, wandering aimlessly or seeming unaware of their surroundings. This disorientation is a clear sign that the animal’s nervous system is compromised.

These behavioral changes are significant red flags that should not be ignored. If you observe a raccoon exhibiting these traits, it’s best to keep your distance and contact a professional wildlife control service immediately.

Physical Symptoms of Rabies in Raccoons

Rabies does more than alter a raccoon’s behavior; it also causes physical symptoms that are hard to miss. These include:

• Difficulty Walking: Rabid raccoons often struggle with coordination, stumbling, or walking in circles. Partial paralysis, particularly in the hind legs, is a common symptom of advanced rabies.
• Excessive Salivation: One of the hallmark signs of rabies is foaming at the mouth. This occurs because the virus affects the muscles that control swallowing, leading to drooling or excessive saliva production.
• Lethargy: While healthy raccoons are active and agile, a rabid raccoon may appear lethargic, sluggish, or unusually calm. This lack of energy is another indication that the animal is severely unwell.

If you notice any of these symptoms in a raccoon, it’s essential to act quickly. Avoid contact with the animal and alert a wildlife professional.

Changes in Vocalizations

Rabid raccoons often exhibit changes in their vocalizations. While raccoons are known for their chittering and growling sounds, a rabid raccoon’s vocalizations may differ significantly:

• Excessive Noise: Rabid raccoons may become unusually vocal, making loud noises without any apparent reason. This could include growling, screaming, or other aggressive sounds.
• High-Pitched or Unusual Sounds: The infection may cause the raccoon’s voice to change, resulting in high-pitched or otherwise abnormal vocalizations.

These vocal changes, combined with unusual behaviors or physical symptoms, are strong indicators of rabies.

Daytime Activity: A Possible Warning Sign

While raccoons are primarily nocturnal, seeing one during the day is not always a cause for alarm. Raccoons may occasionally forage during daylight hours, especially if food sources are scarce. However, when combined with other signs of rabies, daytime activity can be a red flag. If you see a raccoon out and about during the day exhibiting disorientation, aggression, or other abnormal behaviors, it’s best to exercise caution.

What to Do If You Encounter a Rabid Raccoon

If you come across a raccoon that you suspect is rabid, it’s crucial to handle the situation carefully to protect yourself and others. Follow these steps:

1. Maintain a Safe Distance: Do not approach the raccoon or attempt to capture it yourself. Rabies is highly contagious, and any contact with the animal’s saliva or a bite can transmit the virus.
2. Secure Your Pets and Family: Ensure that pets and children are kept away from the area where the raccoon is located. Bring pets indoors and supervise children until the animal is removed.
3. Contact Wildlife Professionals: Call a licensed wildlife removal service, such as Animal Capture Wildlife Control. Our team is trained to handle rabid animals safely and humanely, ensuring that the situation is resolved without putting anyone at risk.

Preventing Rabies Exposure

Taking proactive steps to prevent rabies exposure can go a long way in protecting your family and pets. Here are some practical measures you can implement:

• Vaccinate Your Pets: Keeping your pets’ rabies vaccinations up to date is one of the most effective ways to protect them from the disease. Speak with your veterinarian about the recommended vaccination schedule.
• Secure Trash and Food Sources: Raccoons are attracted to food scraps and garbage. Use raccoon-proof trash cans and avoid leaving pet food or other edibles outside.
• Seal Entry Points: Inspect your home and property for potential entry points that raccoons could use to access your attic, crawlspace, or shed. Seal these areas to prevent wildlife intrusion.
• Avoid Feeding Wildlife: Feeding raccoons or other wild animals increases the risk of close contact, which could lead to rabies exposure.

Stay Safe with Professional Help

Recognizing the signs of rabies in raccoons is crucial for the safety of your family and pets. If you encounter a raccoon that shows signs of rabies, such as aggression, disorientation, or excessive salivation, do not attempt to handle the situation yourself. Instead, contact Animal Capture Wildlife Control for expert assistance.

Our team specializes in humane wildlife removal and is equipped to handle potentially rabid animals safely. We are committed to protecting your home and ensuring the well-being of your loved ones. Don’t wait until it’s too late—contact us today about our services to keep your property safe and wildlife-free.