Rabies may sound like a disease that existed far back in history like the plague but at least one person every day dies of this disease somewhere in the world.  What’s more, raccoons are vulnerable to contracting rabies by fighting with other rabid animals.

It goes without saying that you should not attempt to trap, catch or interfere with a rabid raccoon. Call a wildlife removal service in Toronto immediately you spot a raccoon that you suspect may be rabid.

Signs of Rabid Raccoon

It is difficult to say definitively whether or not a raccoon has rabies without first examining the brain. There are however a few signs and symptoms that are consistent with rabies.

First, raccoons are nocturnal animals and any nocturnal creature that is active during the day should be treated with suspicion. There is a high chance that the animal isn’t rabid but it is better to lean on the side of caution. Although raccoons running around during the day are a fairly common sight, rabid raccoons are prone to wandering during daylight hours.

Raccoons are docile compared to other wild animals especially if the coons are used to living around humans. A coon that displays aggression for no apparent reason may be rabid. On the other end of the spectrum, these animals are known for their incessant activity. A lethargic coon may also have rabies.

Next, a raccoon that looks lost, disoriented or wandering may be rabid. These animals are purposeful and are mostly outside foraging. If the critter seems to be wondering with no purpose or is not reacting to noises that would typically scare the animal off, you may have a rabid coon on your hands.

Loss of leg function is a sign of an advanced case of rabies. Be wary of a raccoon that looks like it has a paralyzed leg or legs. Another indication of an advanced infection includes frothing and drooling at the mouth. Although a raccoon that obviously looks sick may have some other disease, it can equally be suffering from rabies.

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Get to a hospital immediately if you have been attacked by a raccoon whether or not it is rabid. Wear protective rubber gloves when handling a pet that has been attacked by a rabid coon to prevent coming into contact with the infected saliva. Take the animal to a vet as soon as possible.

Call a raccoon removal company in Toronto if you have raccoons in or around your property. It is best to let experts handle wildlife removal even if the raccoons are healthy. Do not attempt to capture a rabid coon and keep in mind that it is illegal to kill protected wildlife. A raccoon removal expert knows how to deal with a rabid animal safely and humanely.