Cicadas pop their heads out from their long, subterranean slumber when the warmth sets in and put up an incredible show for the natural observer and a dog owner alike. This blog of nature sparks one particular question for the owner of dogs: Can Dogs Eat Cicadas?
Can Dogs Eat Cicadas? The answer is that cicadas do not poison dogs but go with safety and health factors. This paper discusses some features of the cicadas consumed by dogs, the risks involved, management strategies, and appropriate actions if your dog has already consumed them.
Understanding Cicadas
Cicadas are noisy flying insects with distinctive sounds and periodic emergence. In the order Hemiptera, they are characterized by large eyes, transparent wings, and stout bodies. Most cicadas spend most of their lives underground as root-feeding insects whose sap is available to feed on. Depending on the species, they enter into a dormant state for any period between 13 and 17 years, upon which they emerge in hundreds to mate and lay eggs.
Cicada life cycle
Egg Stage: The female lays eggs in the slits prepared on branches of trees. After laying eggs, several weeks pass before these eggs hatch to become nymphs.
Nymph Stage: During a number of years, nymphs fall onto the ground and move deeper into the soil in search of sap to feed on at the plant’s roots as they molt many times while growing.
Adult Stage: Eventually, after several years of development, the nymphs emerge from the ground as adults, which undergo one final molt to complete them. During this time, the males produce their loud call for mating.
Emergence of Cicadas
Cicadas are from late spring to early summer. They are a show, at times, unique, but at others, just too much. They can be abundant at this time of year, making for an easy curiosity-driven snack for the curious dog.
Can Dogs Eat Cicadas?
Can dogs eat cicadas?” is simple—yes, with caution. Truth be told, though, there do exist health risks regarding their ingestion for dogs because cicadas are not harmful to canines.
Gastrointestinal Upheaval: Cicadas have an indigestible hard exoskeleton that makes it difficult for dogs’ digestive systems to break down inside. Feeding more than a couple of cicadas would give the dog signs of abdominal discomfort, vomiting, and diarrhea. Several dogs need hospital treatment, and the therapy could require IV fluids.
Their stiff wings and hard shells can cause choking, especially in small dogs. A dog that hastily swallows a cicada without chewing it thoroughly can lead to choking or obstruction in the throat or intestines.
Exposure to Pesticides: The cicadas might have been exposed to pesticides or other chemicals by their surroundings. Thus, if your dog feeds on the contaminated cicadas, it might expose your pet to further health complications.
Allergic Response: Some dogs may be allergic to the cicadas. Mostly when they are allergic to shellfish since the insects and crustaceans have biological similarities, making them have the same allergic response.
Intestinal Obstruction: If a dog devours large numbers of cicadas, this can lead to intestinal obstruction, whereby a life-threatening situation may be the only answer under the clinic’s emergency wing.
How Many Cicadas Can a Dog Eat?
The number of cicadas a dog can safely consume varies based on the size and health of the dog. A few cicadas will not harm a dog, but large quantities can cause serious health problems. It is better to prevent your dog from eating cicadas altogether to avoid potential risks.
Managing your dog during the Cicada season
Use the following to avoid harm to your dog this cicada season:
Track Outdoor Time
Keep an eye on your dog outdoors, especially in areas with many cicadas. This will deprive them of the chance to munch on these insects.
Training Commands
Teach your dog some commands, such as “leave it” or “no,” so it does not eat the cicadas. The positive reinforcement will help your dog learn how to avoid them.
Limit Access
Avoid pet access to wooded regions and your gardens, especially if these regions contain high levels of cicadas.
Ask Your Veterinarian
If you suspect your dog has cicadas-related health or behavioral issues, ask your veterinarian for specific advice.
What to Do If Your Dog Eats Cicadas
Even when your dog is eating cicadas, observe them keenly if they show signs of discomfort or disease. Some of these signs include:
Vomiting
Diarrhea with possible blood in it
Abdominal pain
Lethargy
In cases where your dog develops any of these symptoms, seek advice from your veterinarian immediately. A few cicadas will hardly kill your dog, so act on the cautionary principle: be safe than sorry.
Nutritional content of Cicadas
This article deals with the safety of dogs Can Dogs Eat Cicadas? However, it is also interesting to note that cicadas are a source of protein and other nutrients. Cicadas are even considered a delicacy in some cultures, where they are eaten raw, boiled, fried, or roasted by man for their nutritional value.
High Protein Content: Cicadas are 30-40% protein in composition, and thus, they are a healthy snack for many animals, including dogs.
Healthy Fats: They contain healthy fats, which are a good energy source and provide overall health.
These include vitamins and minerals, such as B vitamins, zinc, and iron, which are fundamental in ensuring the health of the immune system and the body.
Can Dogs Benefit From Eating Cicadas?
Although cicadas are a source of nutrition, there are risks associated with letting your dog feed on them. The exoskeleton is hard to digest, and pesticide use is another factor that should not be ignored. Thus, though cicadas may be a source of nutrition, moderation and caution rule the day.
Cultural Views Regarding Insect Consumption
The consumption of insects is typical in many cultures all over the world. Many indigenous groups have consumed cicadas, and they serve as a delicacy to some. It depends on how one thinks about one’s culture concerning that consumption.
Insect consumption has been part of human diets for many centuries. So many cultures value them due to their nutrient content and cultivate them as sustainable food sources. The culture of insect eating is entomophagy, gaining momentum lately as the world discovers alternative protein sources.
Contemporary Trends There has been a tremendous interest in edible insects as sustainable food sources. Chefs and other food enthusiasts are experimenting with various insect dishes, among which cicadas are famous. This trend, therefore, has increased knowledge about the nutritional benefits of insects and their potential contribution to solving food security challenges.
Conclusion: Can Dogs Eat Cicadas?
The question is, Can Dogs Eat Cicadas? Reply in a virtually affirmative sense, with one caution at what the case may lead. This is just in the hope that being innocuously nonvenomous turns out beneficial after the ordeal.
So, an accountable dog owner must keep an eye on their dog when it is cicada season to protect them. In case your dog ingests some cicadas, observe its health and consult the veterinarian about any warning signs. You can prevent the risks associated with such seasonal insects when your pet goes out to play nearly free of such risks.
FAQs: Can Dogs Eat Cicadas?
Are Cicadas Poisonous to Dogs?
No, cicadas are not toxic to dogs. However, its stomach sometimes goes haywire in large quantities while swallowing, as its exoskeletons are tough.
What Should Be Done If My Dog Ingests Cicadas?
Be vigilant for any indication of gastrointestinal upsets, such as vomiting or diarrhea. Now, give your vet a call for guidance.
Can A Dog Be Allergic To Cicadas?
Yes, although rarely, some dogs may be allergic to cicadas, especially if the dog is allergic to shellfish.
How To Stop My Dog From Eating Cicadas?
Watch for your dog outside. Train your dog to use the “leave it” command. Isolate your dog in prohibited areas where most cicadas are.
Can Dogs Eat Just A Few Cicadas?
In general, a few cicadas can do little or no harm but are better avoided to keep your dog safe from other health conditions they may cause.
