Skunk Fun Facts
1. How far can a skunk spray?
Up to 10 feet-15 feet
2. How long does it take for skunk odor to go away on its own?
If left untreated, the smell of a skunk can last anywhere from days, to two weeks, to a month (depending upon circumstances).
3. Why does skunk smell so bad?
The complex oily combination of sulfuric chemicals, called “thiols,” is what makes skunk musk smell so bad. Humans can smell skunk musk in parts per billion, whereas other odors like cigarette smoke, can only be detected in parts per million.
The scent of skunk musk is due to primarily these two thiols:
- 2-Butene-1-thiol (38-44%)
- 3-Methyl-1-butanethiol (18-26%)
Skunk musk also contains thioacetate derivatives of the following thiols (these derivatives turn into smelly thiols and become even more potent when mixed with water, thus giving skunk musk its incredible staying power, especially when an animal gets wet):
- 2-butenyl thioacetate (12-16%)
- 3-methylbutanyl thioacetate (2-3%)
- 2-quinolinemethyl thioacetate (4-11%)
A third compound found in skunk musk is an alkaloid:
- 2-methylquinoline (4-11%)
4. What are the effects of skunk spray?
Skunk musk can cause sneezing, nausea, vomiting, and drooling. It can also cause temporary blindness if a pet is sprayed in the eyes.
5. How far can skunk be smelled outdoors?
Downwind, skunk musk is sufficiently powerful to be detected by a human nose up to 3.5 miles away.
6. How quickly can a skunk re-charge to spray again?
Skunks are reluctant to use this weapon, as they carry just enough material for about five or six uses (about 15 cc). After it has been exhausted it takes approximately 10 days to produce another supply.
7. Should I immediately wash my dog after being skunked?
NO – water negatively affects the thioacetates of skunk musk, making the oily substance resistant to being chemically neutralized by most current products on the market. Chemically neutralize FIRST; then if needed, shampoo to help rid the coat of residual oils (which are yellow in color).
8. Home remedy for partial neutralization of skunk musk (when commercial treatments are not available):
- 1 quart of 3% hydrogen peroxide
- ¼ cup baking soda
- Teaspoon of liquid detergent