Soon, billions of crickets from two broods will emerge from the ground in large parts of the US, so there is a high probability that millions of pets will run into the insects.
The 17-year period cicadas in Brood XIII should occur throughout northern Illinois, and the 13-year period cicadas in Brood XIX are likely to occur in the southeastern United States and in central Illinois. It will be the first time in 221 years that both litters are above ground at the same time.
Although the size and sound of the occasional cricket can seem intimidating, the insects pose only a “minimal risk” to dogs and cats, Dr. Rena Carlson, president of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), tells PEOPLE.
PEOPLE spoke with a veterinary expert, who has spent more than 30 years as a veterinarian, to learn more about the behaviors pet owners can expect when their dogs and cats encounter cicadas.
Read on to learn more about the potential dangers insects pose to pets and how to avoid them.
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Are cicadas dangerous to pets?
Unlike insects that bite and sting, cicadas do not pose much of a risk to dogs and cats.
“They’re not toxic to our pets, they don’t sting, and they’re not known to carry disease,” says Dr. Carlson, explaining why pet owners shouldn’t worry too much about their pets and the bugs that cross their path.
The president of the AVMA recommends keeping an eye on your pet if it’s adventurous.
“Crickets or their discarded shells (exoskeletons) can irritate the digestive system if ingested and can cause gastrointestinal discomfort in dogs and cats, depending on the amount eaten and the size or breed of the animal. It is a good idea to monitor pets when they are outside during this time to prevent excessive consumption,” advises Dr. Carlson.
Pets that are not enticed to eat the insects could “startle or frighten the cicadas.”
“If this is the case, a simple remedy would be to keep the pet indoors. Otherwise, owners can keep the pet away from the crickets and keep the pet safely under their control by keeping the pet on a leash when outside,” Dr. Carlson adds.
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How serious is it if a pet eats a cicada?
“Although cicadas are not harmful to pets, consuming too many can lead to gastrointestinal disturbances, such as vomiting or diarrhea,” says Dr. Carlson.
“If your pet appears distressed after consuming cicadas or their discarded shells, contact your veterinarian. Treatment generally involves managing any signs of gastrointestinal distress and keeping the pet comfortable,” adds the vet.
Periodic cicada.
Getty
What are the symptoms of an adverse reaction to cicadas?
According to Dr. Carlson, dogs or cats that eat cicadas and become unwell afterward are likely to show signs of “excessive drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, or obvious distress.”
“If your pet shows these signs after consuming cicadas, it is advised to contact your veterinarian,” she adds.
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Can the noise made by crickets affect pets?
“Although the sound of male crickets buzzing to attract a mate can be loud and quite noticeable, it usually doesn’t affect pets as significantly as sudden, unexpected sounds like fireworks or thunder,” says Dr. Carlson.
She suggests providing your pet with a quiet, relaxing space in the house if you notice that your cat or dog is irritated by the buzzing of crickets.
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What other advice do you have for pet owners about the 2024 cricket season?
“Enjoy the natural spectacle of crickets emerging while ensuring your pets are safe. Watch your pets when they are outside, train them with helpful commands to prevent crickets from eating them, and provide a quiet indoor environment to escape noise,” Dr. Carlson advises, adding that the overall appearance of a double cicada brood is “a fascinating natural event with minimal risks to your furry friends.”
Categories: Trends
Source: HIS Education