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A raccoon in your kitchen is an emergency that requires immediate action. Raccoons (Procyon lotor) are intelligent, strong, and can cause significant damage in a short time. Their dexterous forepaws can open cabinets, tear through food packaging, and even open refrigerators. This guide covers 5 steps to safely remove a raccoon from your kitchen.
Key Takeaways
- Secure all food sources immediately. The raccoon is in your kitchen for food.
- Create an escape route by opening doors and windows. Do not corner the animal.
- Never attempt to grab or trap the raccoon in a confined space. Call a professional if needed.
- Seal entry points after removal to prevent a repeat incident.
In This Guide
Step 1: Secure the Area
Your first priority is preventing the raccoon from accessing more food and from moving deeper into your home.
- Remove all food from counters and open cabinets. Store food in the refrigerator or pantry with the door closed.
- Close doors to other rooms to contain the raccoon in the kitchen.
- Remove pets and children from the area. A cornered raccoon can be aggressive.
- Put on heavy-duty gloves and long sleeves in case you need to get close to the raccoon.
Step 2: Create an Escape Route
- Open the kitchen door or window wide. If possible, open a door directly to the outside.
- Remove the screen from an open window so the raccoon can exit.
- Clear a path from the raccoon’s location to the exit. Move chairs, tables, and other obstacles.
- Turn off the lights in the kitchen. Raccoons are nocturnal and prefer darkness for movement.
Step 3: Use Deterrents
If the raccoon does not leave on its own within 30 minutes, try these deterrents:
- Loud noise: Bang pots and pans or play loud music near the kitchen entrance. The noise should be directed toward the raccoon, not at it.
- Bright lights: Shine a bright flashlight or work light toward the raccoon from a safe distance.
- Ammonia-soaked rags: Place a rag soaked in ammonia near the raccoon. The strong smell may encourage it to leave. Do not use ammonia near food surfaces.
Step 4: Call a Professional
Call a licensed wildlife control operator immediately if:
- The raccoon has been in the kitchen for more than 2 hours
- The raccoon is acting aggressively or appears sick (staggering, drooling, disoriented)
- You suspect there are babies nearby
- You cannot safely create an escape route
- The raccoon is trapped in a wall, cabinet, or appliance
Step 5: Prevent Future Entry
After the raccoon is removed, find and seal how it entered:
- Check for gaps around pipes, vents, and where the floor meets the wall.
- Inspect pet doors and ensure they are locked at night.
- Secure garbage cans with locking lids.
- Seal all gaps with 1/4 inch hardware cloth, steel wool, and expanding foam.
For more, read our attic removal guide and raccoon behavior guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a raccoon open a refrigerator?
Raccoons have dexterous forepaws with four times the tactile sensitivity of human hands. They can open standard refrigerator doors, cabinet doors, and twist-off lids. Always secure food in containers with locking mechanisms.
How did a raccoon get into my kitchen?
Raccoons enter homes through pet doors, open windows, damaged vents, and gaps around pipes. They are excellent climbers and can access upper-floor windows through trees or downspouts. Inspect your home’s exterior for any opening larger than 4 inches.
Will a raccoon attack me in my kitchen?
A raccoon trapped in a kitchen will prioritize escape over attack. However, if cornered, threatened, or protecting young, it may bite or scratch. Raccoons can carry rabies, so any bite requires immediate medical attention. Never corner the animal.
How much does emergency raccoon removal cost?
Emergency wildlife removal services typically cost $300 to $800, depending on the time of day and complexity. Standard non-emergency removal costs $200 to $600. Many companies offer a warranty on exclusion work.
The Bottom Line
A raccoon in your kitchen is stressful but manageable. Secure food, create an escape route, and use deterrents to encourage the raccoon to leave. If the animal does not exit within 2 hours or shows signs of aggression, call a professional. After removal, seal all entry points to prevent future incidents. The most common entry points are pet doors, open windows, and gaps around pipes.
