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How Can You Tell If A Squirrel Has Rabies?
One of the first steps to identify a squirrel with rabies is to monitor its behavior. A squirrel that has been calm and friendly may suddenly become aggressive. If you see this behavior, it may be an indication of rabies. You should also avoid coming near a rabid squirrel. A person with rabies must see a doctor immediately after being bitten by one.
Rabies Sign In Squirrels
The signs of rabies are often not apparent until the later stages of the disease. Generally, rabid squirrels will randomly attack humans, other animals, and inanimate objects. They may start running in circles and stop swallowing their saliva. A person with rabies should also notice disorientation, trembling, and even paralysis. The symptoms of rabies will change over time, and you should visit a veterinarian to make sure there are no signs of other animal illnesses.
Also Read: What Does the Word Squirrel Mean?
If you find a rabid squirrel, the first step is to contact your local wildlife agency. The report will be added to your local records and the rabies infection may prompt further testing and treatment. If you are bitten by a rabid squirrel, you must wait for the results. Then, you will be given specific antibiotics for the condition and sent home with a bandage.
When you observe an attack by a rabid squirrel, you must seek medical attention immediately. Remember that rabies does not usually have any symptoms until the later stages, so the sooner you get medical attention, the better. If you find out the squirrel has rabies, you should visit your local wildlife agency right away. Once you’ve been attacked by a rabid squirrel, it is important to contact your local wildlife agency immediately.
Besides being extremely aggressive, a rabid squirrel will also show abnormally low-grade fever. If it has rabies, it will lose its sense of balance and will be confused, and may even appear unresponsive. It may not have a rash or other symptoms, but the bite will be red and sore. The rabies symptoms will be permanent, so it’s important to get the proper medical attention.
The symptoms of rabies include a staggering gait and a swollen face. Moreover, the animal may act erratically when a person approaches it. A rabid squirrel may also show signs that resemble those of rabies in humans. If you are suspicious of an animal, you should contact the wildlife authority.
Although the squirrel has rabies, most humans will never contract it. The virus attacks the nervous system of the host creature, and if an individual is infected, the symptoms will be fever and frustration. In rare cases, a person with rabies may also develop complications and a fatality. If your pet has experienced any of these symptoms, it’s best to consult a doctor immediately.
A rabid squirrel will act aggressively when bitten. It will walk on its hind legs and cling to human hands. During the infection, the animal will try to avoid the person. A rabid squirrel may be more aggressive when it licks the human. It’s also possible to contract rabies from a pet that has come in contact with a bat.
The animal may approach the person and may foam at the mouth. This can also be a sign of rabies. A rabid animal will also be aggressive and approach people when provoked. While rabies is rare in humans, it is possible for a squirrel to have a fatal roundworm in the brain.
Conclusion
A rabid squirrel will run around in circles and appear confused. If you see one of these symptoms, go to a hospital immediately. If you notice a squirrel exhibiting these symptoms, you should contact the local wildlife agency and report the situation. Do not wait too long to get a diagnosis from the vet. It can be fatal. If it attacks you, call the police immediately to help prevent the disease from spreading.
Jessica Watson is a PHD holder from the University of Washington. She studied behavior and interaction between squirrels and has presented her research in several wildlife conferences including TWS Annual Conference in Winnipeg.