What are some humane ways to kill a groundhog in a cage?

A groundhog infestation around a home may be a nuisance and a health hazard sometimes. When you want to kill a groundhog after trapping it, you have to makes sure that you cause as little suffering as possible.

Asphyxiation using CO2 is the only method that has been approved that uses common materials in your home. The guidelines available are meant to be used by vets and are not for ordinary people. If you are not qualified, you may end up causing much suffering instead.

Shooting the animal is the only option you may have if you live in an area where you are allowed to do so and you are have high marksman’s skills. A groundhog that is shot but not killed on the spot can become more aggressive and dangerous than it may have been. It can be dangerous to pets and children if it is capable of getting away.

If you do not know what to do, you can still call an animal control company. They have the right information and equipment to put the groundhog out with less pain.

If the animal has been wounded, you should not release it in the wild since it may cause it too much pain until it dies. It is better to call a vet to euthanize it. Even if it may not be pleasant, it will be a better and more humane way to kill the animal.

If you attempt to stress the groundhog, it can try to fight, break free or struggle. You have to make sure that you minimize the unnecessary stimulation for the animal and handle the rodent in a gentle manner.

The alternative to killing the groundhog is to use a live trap and then release the animal afterwards. You should also consider why the groundhog likes to come to your place and remove what attracts them to your place. A groundhog may decide to come to your place because they can get easy food, so you should prevent access to the food or remove the source of food.

Go back to the How to Get Rid of Groundhogs page or email us if you have any other questions about What are some humane ways to kill a groundhog in a cage?