Are Cicadas Poisonous To Cats? What Every Pet Owner Needs To Know

As the summer months arrive and the air fills with that distinct, buzzing chorus, you might find your curious feline companion captivated by a peculiar insect: the cicada. These large, noisy creatures emerge from the ground in vast numbers, often becoming irresistible targets for playful paws and curious mouths. This natural curiosity often leads pet owners to a common, yet crucial, question: are cicadas poisonous to cats?

The short answer, which will likely bring a sigh of relief to many, is a resounding no. Cicadas are generally not toxic to cats. However, like with many things in a cat's diet that aren't their regular food, there are important nuances and considerations to keep in mind. Let's dive deeper into what you need to know about your cat's potential encounters with these fascinating insects.

The Short Answer: Are Cicadas Toxic to Cats?

Let's get straight to the point: cicadas do not pose a significant toxic risk to cats. According to veterinary experts, "The answer is no—cicadas do not pose much risk to cats as they are not toxic, and typically, there is no need to worry." This is excellent news for pet parents who might be panicking at the sight of their cat pouncing on a buzzing bug.

Cicadas are actually considered non-toxic for most cats, most of the time. They don't possess any venom, stingers, or harmful toxins that could poison your pet. Unlike some other insects that bite and sting, cicadas are largely harmless in terms of direct defense mechanisms against your furry friend. They "do not bite or sting, and they are not toxic to dogs or cats." So, if your cat manages to snatch one up, there's no immediate cause for alarm regarding toxicity.

Why the Concern? Understanding Cicadas and Cats

It's understandable why pet owners might be concerned. Cicadas, with their large bodies, prominent eyes, and loud buzzing, can appear somewhat intimidating or "menacing" to the untrained eye. However, "the good news is that while cicadas look a little menacing, they don’t bite, sting, or possess any poison or toxins." They are essentially harmless, slow-moving, and readily available, making them an easy target for a cat's natural hunting instincts.

Cats are natural predators, and their instinct to hunt is strong, even in domesticated environments. A buzzing cicada on the ground or clinging to a wall presents an irresistible moving target. For a cat, catching a cicada can be seen as a high-protein snack or simply an engaging form of play. If a cat eats a cicada, "she will for the most part just enjoy a filling, high-protein snack!" This natural attraction is why encounters are so common during cicada emergence periods.

The "Most" Important Keyword: When Cicadas Become a Concern

While cicadas are not toxic, the key word here, as highlighted by experts, is "most." "While a cicada here and there’s unlikely to cause any harm to your cat, eating too many" can lead to issues. This is where the concern shifts from toxicity to quantity and physical ingestion.

Potential Issues from Overconsumption:

The primary problems arise not from the cicada's chemical makeup, but from its physical structure, particularly its hard outer shell, known as the exoskeleton. When cats consume a large number of cicadas, this can lead to:

Gastrointestinal Upset: The hard, chitinous exoskeleton of cicadas is not easily digestible for cats. If ingested in large quantities, these indigestible parts can irritate the stomach and intestines. This can manifest as symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or general abdominal discomfort. As one expert notes, "Cicadas are not poisonous to cats, but they can cause gastrointestinal issues if ingested in large quantities."
Choking Hazard: While less common, the size and hard nature of a cicada's exoskeleton could potentially pose a choking risk, especially for smaller cats or if swallowed improperly. "The hard exoskeleton of cicadas can cause choking, abdominal [discomfort]."
Not a Regular Diet Item: Even if non-toxic, cicadas are not a part of a cat's regular, balanced diet. Introducing a large amount of any new food, especially one with indigestible components, can upset a sensitive digestive system. "Cicadas themselves are not toxic — but if they're not a part of your furry friend's regular diet, then there's a chance they can cause discomfort or gastrointestinal upset."

So, while a single cicada or two is usually nothing to worry about, a cat gorging on dozens of them could certainly lead to an upset stomach and an unpleasant mess for you to clean up.

What to Do If Your Cat Eats Cicadas

If you catch your cat munching on a cicada or suspect they've had a few, the best course of action is to monitor them closely. Look out for any signs of gastrointestinal distress, such as:

Vomiting
Diarrhea
Loss of appetite
Lethargy or unusual tiredness
Abdominal pain (e.g., hunching, reluctance to be touched)

In most cases, if your cat has only eaten a few, they will likely be fine and show no symptoms. However, if you notice any of these signs, especially if they are severe or persistent, it's always best to contact your veterinarian. They can provide advice specific to your cat's situation and recommend appropriate treatment if needed.

Prevention Tips:

During peak cicada emergence, you can take a few simple steps to minimize your cat's consumption:

Supervise Outdoor Time: If your cat goes outside, try to supervise their time outdoors, especially in areas where cicadas are abundant.
Keep Windows and Doors Screened: Ensure screens are intact to prevent cicadas from entering your home, where they become easy targets.
Discourage Play: Gently redirect your cat's attention from cicadas with their favorite toys or treats.
Clean Up: If cicadas die and fall onto your patio or porch, sweep them up promptly to remove the temptation.

Beyond Toxicity: Other Considerations

While the direct toxicity of cicadas is not a concern, it's worth briefly considering other factors. For instance, if cicadas in your area have been exposed to pesticides (e.g., from lawn treatments), ingesting those cicadas could potentially expose your pet to the chemicals. However, this risk is generally low, as cicadas spend most of their lives underground and are typically not direct targets for widespread pesticide application. The primary concern remains the physical ingestion of many exoskeletons.

Ultimately, "Cicadas pose no toxic threat to cats and are generally safe for feline interaction. These insects, while noisy and abundant during their emergence, do not harm cats if ingested."

Final Summary

To summarize, the good news for cat owners is that cicadas are not poisonous or toxic to cats. They do not sting, bite, or carry any known diseases that pose a direct threat to your feline friend. The main concern arises only if a cat consumes a large quantity of these insects, as their hard exoskeletons can lead to gastrointestinal upset like vomiting or diarrhea, and in rare cases, a choking hazard. A cicada or two is usually a harmless, high-protein snack for a curious cat, but moderation is key. If your cat eats cicadas, monitor them for any signs of discomfort, and contact your vet if symptoms are severe or persistent. Enjoy the unique spectacle of cicada season, knowing your cat is generally safe from their buzzing presence.