Raccoons may look cute and harmless, but when they invade your home or property, they can cause significant damage and pose serious health risks. That’s why it’s crucial to address raccoon infestations swiftly and professionally. A raccoon removal company isn’t just there to trap and remove the animal—they’re also your best source of advice when it comes to prevention and long-term protection.
Here are five key warnings your raccoon removal company wants you to hear—and why ignoring them could cost you more than you think.
1. Don’t Wait—Raccoons Multiply Fast
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is underestimating how quickly a raccoon problem can escalate. Raccoons breed in the spring, and a single mother can give birth to a litter of four to six kits.
If you’ve spotted one raccoon on your property, chances are there are more—and babies may be on the way or already hidden in your attic, crawl space, or chimney.
A raccoon removal company will always stress urgency. Delaying action only gives raccoons more time to nest, multiply, and cause greater damage. Left unchecked, raccoons can tear up insulation, chew through wiring (posing fire risks), and leave behind urine and feces that lead to dangerous mold or disease.
2. DIY Removal Can Be Dangerous and Illegal
When dealing with wildlife, it’s tempting to take matters into your own hands. But a professional raccoon removal company will warn you: DIY raccoon removal can be both dangerous and illegal.
Raccoons are highly intelligent and can become aggressive if they feel threatened—especially mothers with young. They can bite or scratch, potentially transmitting rabies or other zoonotic diseases. Moreover, many states have laws protecting wildlife, and improper trapping or relocation can result in fines or penalties.
Licensed raccoon removal companies use humane, legal trapping techniques and are trained to deal with these animals safely. They also know local wildlife regulations and can ensure the entire process is done by the book.
3. A Trapped Raccoon Isn’t the End of the Problem
Catching the raccoon is just the beginning. Any reputable raccoon removal company will tell you that removing the animal doesn’t solve the root issue. If you don’t identify and seal off the entry points they used to get in, other raccoons—or different pests—will find their way back in.
Even if you’ve trapped a raccoon, there could be others hiding in the structure. Additionally, raccoons leave behind scents that can attract new animals. Without a full inspection, cleanup, and exclusion plan, you’re likely to face repeat infestations.
Professional companies conduct thorough inspections, identify all potential access points, and offer exclusion services to keep raccoons from returning.
4. Raccoon Waste Is a Serious Biohazard
It’s not just the animals themselves you need to worry about. Raccoon droppings carry parasites and pathogens, including the potentially deadly raccoon roundworm (Baylisascaris procyonis). These parasites can infect humans and pets, causing severe neurological damage or death in extreme cases.
A qualified raccoon removal company will always emphasize the importance of proper sanitation after an infestation. Cleaning up raccoon waste is not a simple DIY task—it requires personal protective equipment, specialized cleaning agents, and careful disposal.
Failing to properly clean contaminated areas can leave behind dangerous residues and odors, increasing the risk of illness or future pest attraction.
5. Prevention Is the Best Long-Term Strategy
Most raccoon problems are avoidable with proper home maintenance and prevention strategies. A raccoon removal company’s ultimate goal is to ensure you never need to call them again. That’s why they’ll offer detailed advice on how to prevent future invasions.
This might include:
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Securing trash cans with tight-fitting lids
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Installing chimney caps and vent covers
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Pruning overhanging tree branches near the roofline
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Sealing gaps or holes in roofing, siding, and foundation
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Avoiding feeding pets or leaving food outdoors overnight
A small investment in prevention can save you hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars in damage and removal costs down the line. Not only does it protect your home from costly structural repairs, but it also helps avoid potential health hazards caused by raccoon contamination. Proactive measures today can spare you from the stress and disruption of a full-blown infestation tomorrow, making prevention the most cost-effective and reliable solution in the long run.
Trust the Pros
Raccoons are clever, resilient, and potentially dangerous. When they target your home, you need more than a quick fix—you need professional support. A raccoon removal company brings more than traps to the table. They bring experience, legal knowledge, and a deep understanding of raccoon behavior.
By heeding their warnings, acting quickly, and following through with prevention and cleanup, you can protect your home, health, and peace of mind.
If you suspect raccoons have moved into your space, don’t wait. Call a trusted raccoon removal company and take the first step toward reclaiming your home safely and responsibly.
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