Diseases Carried by Squirrels: Risks for People and Pets

Diseases Carried by Squirrels: Risks for People and Pets

Squirrels may be entertaining to watch, but they can carry diseases that pose risks to humans and other animals. Common zoonotic diseases—those transmissible to humans—include:

Zoonotic Diseases

• Lyme disease, spread through ticks that may feed on squirrels.
• Rabies, a deadly viral disease transmitted through saliva, usually via bites or scratches.
• Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection spread through contaminated water or soil, often via squirrel urine.
• Tularemia, also called "rabbit fever," spread through contact with infected animals or their remains.
• Salmonella, carried in feces and spread through contaminated food or water.
• Ringworm, a fungal infection spread through contact with infected animals or fur.
• Plague, a bacterial infection spread through fleas.

Other Concerns

Squirrel pox can cause skin lesions and may be fatal to squirrels. Squirrels can also carry mites, ticks, and fleas that transfer to other animals and humans.

Precautions

• Avoid touching or handling wild squirrels.
• Keep pets away from squirrels.
• Vaccinate pets as recommended by your veterinarian.
• Wear gloves when cleaning droppings and disinfect the area thoroughly.
• Report sick or injured squirrels to animal control or a wildlife rehabilitation center.

By staying informed and taking precautions, you can reduce the risks associated with squirrel-borne diseases.