Having a spiteful bite and a mouthful of bared sharp pointed teeth, considering how common it is that you see a possum roaming around your house, you must know, do possums bite? And is it something to be stressed about or not?
Before we get into more details of it, possums generally avoid confrontation, and for that, they often play dead when they feel threatened. However, if surrounded, possums may bite, but it will be the last thing they do. Usually, the possums will show their full teeth, growl, and hiss when encountered.
Hang on! Continue reading to know more about this particular habit and whether possum bites possess some serious threat or not.
About possums
Small creatures, but strong enough to turn your life upside down, known for the nuisance they create, possums are roughly the size of a cat, showing resemblance to rats, with their long tails.
Usually found in yards where you have overflowing garbage cans, bushes, veggies, and fallen fruits. They are always looking for food and shelter and create a mess from wherever they pass through.
Do possums bite?
Possums do not bite, but they have this ability, and when there is nothing left to do in defense, they will do it.
Possums do not like to be in the spotlight, and they will try to run away when trapped. Possums have several techniques that they used to defend themselves. They are apparently to hiss and growl than bite you directly. Moreover, they also pretend to be dead just to avoid a fight, and this act is commonly referred to as “playing possum”. However, if you leave no chance for them to go, possums have the capability to bite for their protection.
Health concerns
Possum’s bite, but they usually do it only to protect themselves. Nevertheless, they should not be welcomed in your home. Not only the nuisance they cause but also the health risk associated with possums can put you in trouble.
When you are bitten by an opossum, you might wonder if you are at risk of diseases, infections, or rabies.
Spotted fever and tuberculosis are a few of the common disease’s possums are known to affect. Besides, not only can you succumb to fleas and parasites, but possums are also known to carry rabies, though it’s not common.
Whatever the case is, possums should be avoided. Do check out how to get rid of possums and how to scare them away from your house.
and so that you can take appropriate actions beforehand.
What to do if possums bite you?
If you are unlucky and have got bitten by the possum, do not panic about it. You can handle it with care and attention. If you get bitten, rinse it with soap and water right away. Do not use soap that contains fragrance or any alcoholic element.
After it has been dried, apply antiseptic to the wound. Apply dressing as well and keep replacing it on a regular basis until the wound completely heals. Swelling or other problems must be reported directly to your doctor.
Do possums bite pets?
A fair question to be asked. We know that possums are attracted to pet food, and you can also find out whether or not possums eat chickens and snakes. What about the dog, cats, or any other pets?
As scavengers, possums are not particularly concerned about anything but food and shelter. Just like with humans, possums avoid fighting with dogs, cats, or any other pets as long as they are not coming in their way themselves.
Possums have the ability to bite; thus, it is better that you look after them. However, possums keep it as the last option, and they often play possums or at maximum growl and hiss when confronted with.
Conclusion
Next time you see a possum around, do not confront them directly. Possums do bite, but more than you are afraid of them, they are fearful of you. Get rid of them with proper steps and do not fear even if you get a bite. You will be alright as long as you handle it gently.
Do you have any unpleasant experiences with possums? What did you do about it?