Signs of Rabies in Raccoons

Raccoons are some of the wild animals most likely to be infected with rabies, a lethal virus that attacks the nervous system and is transmitted to other raccoons, pets, and even humans through saliva, via bites or other contact. Once exposed to the virus, a raccoon may show no signs of having rabies for two months or longer. After this latent period, however, about 90 percent of raccoons with rabies exhibit some diverse, unusual behaviors that are identified with the disease. Learning to recognize those behaviors to avoid contact with rabid raccoons is the best defense against the disease.

Disoriented and Sick

• Though not all rabid raccoons look sick, a common symptom of rabies in raccoons may be appearing disoriented or ill. The animal may stagger about or move very slowly, seemingly with little purpose. The animals may walk in an extremely uncoordinated way or wander into objects. This disorientation may bring raccoons closer than usual to people or pets.

"Furious" Rabies Behavior

• In contrast to those animals who are disoriented, when infected with the rabies virus, some raccoons begin acting extremely aggressive. Behaviors can include unprovoked fighting with dogs, cats, porcupines--as demonstrated by quills found embedded in their faces--or other animals, attacking inanimate objects, and screaming shrilly. Additionally, some raccoons "walk as if on hot pavement" when infected, according to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.

"Dumb" or Numb

• Some raccoons with rabies may appear "dumb," overly friendly with humans, or begin to chatter in an unusual way. Raccoons who are in full-blown stages of the illness may have paralysis in their hind legs and have stiffness and trouble moving. They may also have paralysis in the throat, which can result in saliva pooling and drooling--the "frothing at the mouth" that is a hallmark of rabies.