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Raccoon Latrines and Attic Cleanup: The Health Risks
Raccoons pick one or two spots to use as a toilet — called a latrine. In an attic, that means a pile of droppings soaking into insulation and drywall.
Quick answer: Raccoon droppings can carry raccoon roundworm, whose eggs can survive a long time. Don’t sweep, vacuum or handle them bare-handed. Contaminated insulation should be removed and the area treated.
Health risks
- Raccoon roundworm (Baylisascaris) — eggs in droppings can infect people and pets if swallowed or inhaled as dust
- Leptospirosis and other bacteria in urine
- Fleas, ticks and mites left behind
- Odor that attracts other animals
Why not to clean it yourself
- Sweeping and household vacuums spread contaminated dust
- Attics are hot, tight and full of nails and wiring
- Soaked insulation needs to come out, not be cleaned
How cleanup works
- Make sure the raccoons are out and the entry is sealed (raccoon proofing)
- Protective gear and containment
- Remove droppings and contaminated insulation
- Treat the area
- Replace insulation if needed
More: wildlife damage repair.
Watch: wildlife removal & proofing
Want it handled? Silver Bullet removes squirrels and raccoons humanely and seals your home with steel. Call 973-510-2585 or request a free quote.
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Our wildlife services
- Squirrel Proofing in New Jersey
- Raccoon Proofing in New Jersey
- Animal Proofing & Wildlife Exclusion in New Jersey
- Chimney Animal Proofing & Chimney Caps in New Jersey
- Wildlife Damage Repair in New Jersey
- Animal entry point sealing
More tips & questions
- Squirrels in the Attic: 9 Signs and What to Do
- Noises in the Attic: Squirrels, Rats, Mice or Raccoons?
- How Raccoons Get Into Attics (and How to Stop Them)
- Raccoon in the Chimney: What to Do (and What Not To)
- One-Way Doors: How Squirrel & Raccoon Exclusion Works
- Squirrel Damage to Soffits, Fascia, Vents and Wires
- Home Remedies for Squirrels and Raccoons: What Works and What Doesn't
- How Much Does Squirrel or Raccoon Proofing Cost in NJ?
- Baby Squirrel and Raccoon Season in New Jersey
- 15 Tips to Keep Squirrels and Raccoons Out of Your House
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- Getting Rid of Mice in the Attic
- Rodent Exclusion
- Dryer Vent Mesh Cover
- All pest questions, answered: ants, bees, mice, rats, roaches & more
Common questions
Are raccoon droppings dangerous?
They can be. Raccoon droppings can carry roundworm eggs and bacteria. Avoid contact and don’t stir up dust.
What does a raccoon latrine look like?
A concentrated pile of large, dark droppings in one area, often with staining and strong odor.
Do I need to replace insulation after raccoons?
If it’s soiled or matted, yes. It no longer insulates well and keeps smelling.
Schedule today
Call 973-510-2585, text us or request a free quote online. Silver Bullet Pest Control is licensed and insured in New Jersey.