In 2024, millions of cicadas are set to emerge across various regions, and while this phenomenon is fascinating, it also poses unique challenges for pet owners.

If you have dogs, cats, or other outdoor pets, understanding the potential risks and how to mitigate them is crucial to keeping your furry friends safe during the cicada season.

What’s in This Guide?

What Are Cicadas and Why 2024?

Cicadas are large, winged insects known for their distinctive, loud buzzing sound. They emerge in massive numbers, typically every 13 to 17 years, depending on the species.

2024 marks the return of a particularly large brood, known as Brood XIII, which will blanket areas across the Midwest and parts of the East Coast.

Why It’s Important:

Sheer Numbers: Billions of cicadas will emerge, creating swarms that can overwhelm certain areas.
Pet Safety: While not harmful to humans, cicadas can pose risks to pets if not managed carefully.

1. Potential Risks for Pets

As fascinating as cicadas may be, they can present several risks to pets, particularly dogs and outdoor cats. Here’s what pet parents should be aware of:

Choking Hazards:

Ingestion: Dogs, in particular, may be tempted to chase, catch, and eat cicadas. While a single cicada isn’t harmful, ingesting large quantities can lead to choking or gastrointestinal blockages.

Gastrointestinal Upset:

Vomiting and Diarrhea: Consuming too many cicadas can cause vomiting, diarrhea, or discomfort due to the insects’ hard exoskeletons, which are difficult to digest.

Allergic Reactions:

Symptoms: Though rare, some pets might have allergic reactions to cicadas. Symptoms can include excessive itching, swelling, or even difficulty breathing.

2. How to Protect Your Pets During Cicada Season?

While it’s nearly impossible to avoid cicadas entirely during their emergence, there are steps you can take to minimize the risks for your pets.

Supervision:

Monitor Outdoor Time: Keep a close eye on your pets when they’re outside. Try to limit their outdoor time during peak cicada activity, which is usually during the day.

Muzzle Use:

Prevent Eating: If your dog has a tendency to eat anything in sight, consider using a muzzle when they’re outside. This will help prevent them from ingesting cicadas.

Pet-Safe Areas:

Create a Safe Zone: Designate a part of your yard that is covered or less likely to have cicadas. This can be an area where your pet can safely play without encountering the insects.

3. What to Do If Your Pet Eats Cicadas?

Despite your best efforts, if your pet manages to eat cicadas, don’t panic. In most cases, a few cicadas won’t harm them, but there are signs to watch for that may indicate a problem.

Monitor for Symptoms:

Watch for Discomfort: If your pet starts showing signs of discomfort, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or excessive drooling, it’s time to call your vet.

Seek Veterinary Care:

When to Call the Vet: If your pet has ingested a large number of cicadas or is exhibiting signs of an allergic reaction, seek veterinary care immediately. Early intervention can prevent more serious health issues.

Where and When to Witness the Cicada Invasion?

While billions of cicadas will emerge in 2024, only a select number of states will experience this phenomenon firsthand. If you live in or plan to visit parts of the Midwest or the East Coast, you may find yourself in the midst of this natural spectacle.

The cicadas will begin to emerge as the ground warms, typically in late spring, and will remain active until late July to early August when their life cycle comes to an end.

Key Locations:

Midwest States: Illinois, Iowa, and Indiana will be among the states witnessing the emergence of Brood XIII.
Southern and Eastern States: Brood XIX will be making its appearance in parts of Tennessee, Georgia, and other southern states.

Conclusion: Be Prepared and Stay Vigilant

The 2024 cicada emergence is a natural event that can be managed with proper precautions. By understanding the potential risks and taking proactive steps, you can ensure that your pets remain safe and healthy during this unique and temporary period.

Remember, a little vigilance goes a long way in keeping your pets protected from the potential hazards of the cicada season.