Can Dogs Eat Cicadas? What Every Dog Owner Should Know

We all know that our furry friends are curious about the world around them. Anyone who has ever walked a dog knows just how long they will spend tracking down every single scent and sound they encounter, especially if it’s new to them.

Of course, this means that they are primed and ready to hunt down cicadas. If you live in a region where cicadas regularly appear, then you may already know how your dog will react to the emergence of the upcoming swarm. However, if this year will be your first time encountering cicadas with your dog, then you might be feeling anxious or apprehensive. Keep reading to find out if can dogs eat cicadas and whether they are harmful in any way.

Why Your Dog Might Sniff Out Cicadas

Dogs always seem to be irresistibly drawn to things that gross us out, like animal waste, trash, etc. So naturally, when the cicadas come out, many dogs are thrilled. However, your instincts as a dog parent may make you want to keep your dog away from cicadas dead or alive. Could you be worrying for nothing, though?

Is It Okay for Your Dog to Eat Cicadas?

Of course, your dog can eat cicadas, but should they? Ultimately, the question that every dog owner is asking is, “Are cicadas dangerous for my dog to eat?” The short answer is no, but the long answer is a bit more nuanced.

The Good News

First, cicadas don’t bite or sting. They may look strange and creepy to some people, but generally speaking, cicadas just want to be left alone. Their life cycles are pretty short, so they’re much more focused on mating and reproducing than anything else.

During this time, it’s very likely that your dog will try to eat at least one cicada. If this happens, do not fret. In most cases, a couple of cicadas aren’t going to hurt anything. While they’re not the easiest food for dogs to digest, they are not poisonous or inherently dangerous for your furry friend’s digestive system.

The Not-So-Good News

The trouble comes when dogs are allowed to munch on too many cicadas. This also includes the exoskeletons that they shed. A cicada’s exoskeleton is tough and fibrous, and its wings are stiff and crunchy as well. Both of these things can pose a choking hazard, much like allowing a dog to chew on a bone when it’s too small and splintery.

It’s also possible for your dog to experience an upset tummy if he chomps on too many cicadas. All of that extra fiber is very hard to digest, and vets say this can lead to “mild to severe GI upset.” In the most severe cases, your canine companion might need a vet visit for fluids and medication. Speaking of a vet visit, it’s also possible your pup could have an allergic reaction. So, monitor them closely and seek veterinary care if they show any signs of distress.

Cicadas are sometimes considered a nuisance due to the noise and sheer numbers that emerge. So, it’s common for homeowners to liberally spray pesticides whenever a swarm emergence is imminent. If your dog tries to eat just one or two cicadas, this likely won’t have any noticeable effect on them. However, gorging on these insects could lead to the ingestion of an unhealthy amount of pesticides.

How Can I Keep My Dog From Eating Cicadas?

Even the best-behaved pups have moments where they conveniently forget all of the commands they have ever learned. However, experts say that the best and most effective way to keep your furry friend from eating too many cicadas is to make sure that they have a good grasp of the “drop” or “leave it” command.

Another way to keep your dog safe is to make sure that they are on a leash and supervised whenever they go outside. This will allow you to guide your pup away from the bugs and back to something else. Some vets also recommend keeping treats handy on outdoor walks so that you can redirect your dog’s attention and then reward them for obeying.

Ultimately, it’s probably okay for your furry friend to snatch a few cicadas as a forbidden treat. They are not naturally toxic to humans or animals. However, it’s important to supervise your pet and minimize the number of cicadas and exoshells they munch on. Do this, and you’ll both make it through cicada season just fine.