Are Cicadas Harmful To Pets?
“The biggest takeaway with cicadas is that we’re paying attention to quantity.”
Ah, cicadas. Emerging every few years to serenade us with their unmistakable buzz. Our four-legged friends see them as a buffet of crunchy cuisine. But before you let your pet snack on a cicada, it's important to understand the not-so-tasty consequences that might follow.
Despite resembling a treat, cicadas can lead to some unsavory health issues for your pets. While not toxic in the traditional sense, the problems arise when your pet decides to consume these insects like popcorn at a movie.
Potential Problems:
Stomach Pain & Vomiting: A cicada or two might not cause much harm, but a smorgasbord of them can lead to stomach pain and vomiting. Their crispy little exoskeletons aren't so easy to digest for our pets.
Choking Hazards: Cicadas can pose a real choking hazard! Between their poky legs and crunchy exterior, your pet should steer clear.
Bloody Stool: Consuming a large number of cicadas can lead to gastrointestinal distress.
Allergic Reactions: Just like humans, pets can have allergic reactions to just about anything under the sun – including cicadas.
Pesticide Consumption: Cicadas living underground aren’t immune to the chemicals we use above it. Pesticide-laden cicadas could introduce harmful toxins to your pet’s system.
Pet Parent Tips
While our pets might think cicada season is the best thing since sliced bread, it’s up to us to curb their curiosity. Here are a few tips to keep your pet safe:
Avoid the cicadas, of course! We're looking at you, wooded areas and lush parks.
Keep ‘em close: Off-leash adventures offer the perfect opportunity for your pet to gobble up cicadas. Keeping them on a leash or harness gives you control over their snacking habits.
Watch for symptoms: Keep a watchful eye on your pet. If you notice any strange symptoms or behavior changes, contact us! We’re happy to help guide you through it.
The biggest takeaway with cicadas is that we’re paying attention to quantity. Eating a single cicada is usually not cause to land your pet in the ER, but be mindful that cicadas should absolutely not become a part of their diet! And if they do happen to snag one, be diligent to closely monitor your pet so that they do not choke.
As always, don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any questions or concerns you may have. It’s always better to err on the side of caution and make sure your pet has a clean bill of health.
Sincerely,
The BLVD Team