Are squirrel feces dangerous to touch or breathe?

Squirrel feces are common for anyone who has dealt with squirrels in a wall cavity or in the attic. There are many different problems that can be caused by this small looking animal. The squirrels are known to carry many diseases and conditions, and some of them are dangerous to humans and can be transmitted through the urine and feces. If you want to deal with a squirrel infestation or you want to go into the attic since you think that there is an infestation, you have to be ready and prepared to deal with the feces.



There are many conditions which may be transmitted by squirrels, and they are what it is known as zoonotic diseases. They may be passed from a squirrel to humans, and it is important to take precautions before you even start to identify the level of squirrel infestation. The feces do carry spores and bacteria which may be airborne if they are disturbed, and this is why it is important to have goggles on the eyes and to put on a mask in order to ensure that you do not inhale these bacteria. Since touching the feces may be dangerous, you have to wear a good pair of gloves together with long sleeved clothing and a set of overalls in order to make sure that you do not get any accidental contact with these feces.

There are a good number of diseases which may be transmitted by the feces of the squirrel, and this is in the same way which other rodents transmit them. The biggest concern is a leptospirosis presence in these feces. It is a bacterial condition which is spread by the feces or the urine of the rodents, and it may be mild in some cases where it can cause symptoms that look flu-like. In other situations, it may cause serious respiratory problems and it can even lead to death. Another condition is salmonella, and this is a condition found in squirrel feces. It may cause symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea, but it is not fatal.

If the insulation of the attic has been soiled by the squirrel urine or feces, it can be impossible to get everything out, so you should replace the entire insulation and ensure that all the entry points to your home have been completely sealed.

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Are squirrel feces dangerous to touch or breathe?