Are skunk feces dangerous to touch or breathe

Skunk feces is dangerous to touch or breathe in as it contains harmful microbes. The harmful bacteria and viruses are very dangerous to us. Skunk poop that is dry can break up into small particles that can then be carried by the wind and inhaled when you get close to their surroundings.

Skunks are recognized by their distinctive white and black colors. They are well known for their foul-smelling sprays that are released from their hind region when they feel threatened. Their fecal matter is a source for infections that are transferred to both humans and animals. These rodents are classed as a pest around the world. They are very intelligent and will dig under patios and decks leaving their fecal matter there.



They are also known to get inside wall cavities and inside the roof which is where they can leave their fecal matter which can then be transferred through the heating and air conditioning ducts. Skunk feces contains insects that have not been digested which also contain fur, feathers, grass and berries. Skunks can also carry roundworms and tapeworms that can get transported into humans and other pet animals when they eat or drink something that is contaminated.

The worms will lay eggs in the intestines which are then passed out through the feces. Animals can ingest the eggs when they lick skunks or feed on their carcasses. Then when the eggs are hatched they will be released into the new host.

there are many diseases that can be transferred through breathing or touching such as listeriosis, canine distemper, baylisascaris columnaris, hepatitis equine protozoa, panleukopenia virus and many more.

Listeriosis is a disease that is caused by bacteria that transfers to both human and animals. Symptoms of listeriosis are:

• Fatigue
• Rash
• Diarrhea
• Fever
• Neurological problems like paralysis and brain swelling

Canine Distemper Disease

Canine distemper disease is dangerous disease that affects dogs and cats. Once an animal is infected with the disease the animal will develop a fever, nausea, diarrhea and hysterical behavior.

Hepatitis A

This is an infamous disease that is transmitted to animals or humans when they come in contact with skunk feces or urine. The disease causes liver enlargement and severe damage to the liver if not controlled. Hepatitis also causes kidney, spleen and lung damage as well.

Feline Panleukopenia Virus

This is a dangerous disease that can spread to other animals especially cats. It can affect their digestive organs and cause so many symptoms like white blood cells reduction, bloody diarrhea, frothy vomit and anemia.

These diseases are a good reason to get rid of skunks around the area and not let them reside in or around your property. The best thing to do is to prevent skunks from residing in your property by cleaning up food scraps and cluttered areas that may be enticing to skunks. If you are removing suspected skunk fecal matter be sure to wear protective clothing like hand and face covers in order to protect yourself.


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