Breathing Raccoon Shit

We do not like using this term, Breathing Raccoon Shit, preferring to use proper terms such as raccoon feces or raccoon scat, however in the age of search engines, you have to cater to what people are looking for and this seems to be a popular term. Regardless of what you call it, humans definitely should not breathe in the floating dust that is created from raccoon scat when it is disturbed.

In a dry attic, the scat dries out. It becomes powdery over time and then if disturbed floats easily in the air for anyone in this area and not wearing protective gear to breathe in. You would be amazed at how much dust can be disturbed and float through the air from simply walking around your attic.

Breathing Raccoon Shit – Danger for Humans

Aside from the thought of breathing in raccoon feces or breathing raccoon shit as one reader prefers to call it, and the unsanitary conditions associated with breathing this stuff. There is some real danger for humans. You want to either not go into the attic or take serious precautions to avoid becoming sick.

Raccoon feces contain roundworms by the millions. They are very hardy and can last a long time in various conditions. This includes very dry places like attics which tend to be very hot in the summer. The feces turn to powder. The eggs from the roundworms are so small they can float in the air. They can be picked up on clothing and skin as well as breathed into the lungs.

The danger is that these eggs will hatch inside of you and then travel to various parts of your body. They prefer the eyes and the brain and will settle in causing blindness and even death if not treated. There is no record of anyone being cured of this disease once it has set in.

The bottom line, protect yourself if you need to go into the attic. Wear a protective mask and thoroughly wash your clothes and body after spending time in the attic.