Is Skunk Feces Dangerous To Touch Or Breathe?

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When you compare the number of diseases and bacterial conditions that can be transmitted by different animal species, on the whole skunk feces does not rank particularly highly in terms of the number of conditions or frequency of transmission. However, this does not mean that you should be reckless when you are dealing with a skunk latrine or you are going into a confined space where the skunk has been present.



Diseases Transmitted Through Skunk Feces

Although infections caused by contact with skunk feces, or inhalation of skunk feces particles is rare, it does happen, and diseases such as Leptospirosis can be transmitted by disturbing airborne particles in the feces. Canine distemper, Hepatitis, Listeriosis and roundworm can also be caught if you are handling the feces, so make sure that you wear the right clothing and use the right equipment when dealing with the feces.

Precautions To Take Before Dealing With A Skunk Infestation

Because of the potential transfer of Leptospirosis when the feces is being cleaned and removed, it is worth making sure that you have a breathing mask and goggles while you are carrying out such work. It is also best to wear thick clothing that has long sleeves, and a durable pair of gloves while you are carrying out the work, which should then be placed in a hot wash immediately after you complete the work.

Disposing Of Skunk Feces Safely

When you are cleaning out a skunk latrine, the best option is to place the feces into a thick garbage bag or a plastic container which can then be sealed to prevent the feces from escaping. If you are using a garbage bag, double bagging the material is a wise precaution, and this can then either be placed out with the garbage for collection, or you can incinerate the material.

Cleaning And Disinfecting Contaminated Areas

Once you have removed all of the feces, it is important that you do not leave any residues of the feces behind, and that it is safe for people to return to the area where the skunks have been causing the problem. In this case, making sure you get rid all of the feces before disposing of it is a good idea, and if you have any soiled nesting material remove this as well, and finally give the area a good spray of disinfectant to kill off any remaining bacteria or harmful germs. For more information, you may want to click on one of these guides that I wrote:
How much does skunk removal cost? - get the lowdown on prices.
How to get rid of skunks - my main skunk removal info guide.