Fox droppings may be contaminated with Toxocara canis, which can lead to ringworm the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) noted.
“It is possible for people and pets to get mange from foxes,” the RSPCA added, highlighting that the risk is particularly low as direct contact is unlikely.
While many learn to co-exist peacefully with foxes, there are measures you can take to deter them from your garden.
“Plant prickly plants around the garden,” the RSPCA suggested, with Combat Pest Control elaborating on the types of plants that can deter foxes.
Holly or rose bushes “can be used to create a physical barrier around your garden”.
Combat Pest Control explained: “These plants have prickly leaves that can deter foxes from trying to gain access to your garden.
“It’s important to ensure that these plants are planted densely and are well-maintained to maintain their effectiveness.”
A physical barrier, such as a rose bush, works best when combined with other measures.
Foxes have a strong sense of smell which means that “certain scents can be used to repel them from your garden”.
One “effective natural repellent” is a mixture of chilli powder and garlic that can be sprayed around the garden.
Another scent-based deterrent is citrus peelings, such as orange or lemon peels, which can be pleasant to people and abhorrent to foxes.
Lewisham London Council recommends securing rubbish and closing the lid as “foxes are lazy and will scavenge if you don’t keep food in a secure container”.
Unfortunately, foxes are prone to fouling in the same areas to mark their territory.
How to remove fox poop
You will need a biological washing powder mixed with hot water and an “enzyme-based product from your vet”.
Lewisham Council said: “This will break down the residue of the waste, leading to less fouling. Always use gloves when removing fox waste.
“You may have to persistently wash the same spot, sometimes every day for a fortnight, but usually the fox eventually gets the idea and stops fouling in the area.”
There’s no legal obligation for local authorities to help deal with foxes and do note that it is illegal to poison foxes.
