Can Dogs Eat Cicadas?
Everything pet owners need to know about their furry friends and cicada season.

Everything pet owners need to know about their furry friends and cicada season.
This article was approved by Dr. Stephanie Liff, Lemonade’s favorite vet.
It’s cicada season, and as these “tree crickets” emerge in droves, you’re probably wondering if your dog can eat cicadas. The short answer is: Yes, but it’s not recommended, and definitely not in large amounts.
What might look like just a crunchy snack to your pooch could pose several health risks.
Here’s the buzz on pet safety when it comes to cicadas.
Good news first: Cicadas are not poisonous to dogs.
However, the hard exoskeleton (aka outer shell) of cicadas can cause some serious issues if ingested in large quantities. When cicadas emerge after their 17-year nap, they shed their skin, leaving the crunchy remains behind, which you’ll see littering the ground when they’re in peak season.
Additionally, cicadas might have been exposed to pesticides, posing further health risks.
If your dog ate cicadas, they might experience some digestive upset. A few cicadas probably won’t cause harm, but eating a lot of them could result in symptoms like:
If your pooch experiences any of these symptoms after eating cicadas, or if you suspect they ate a lot of cicadas, it’s time to call the vet.
While it’s not so common for cicadas to cause illness in dogs, pets often get annoyed by them, or even more so, their owners get annoyed by their pets trying to eat them.
Dr. Stephanie Liff
Preventing your dog from eating cicadas involves a mix of supervision and training.
Keep an eye on your pup when they’re outside, especially during the peak of cicada emergence—which typically occurs from mid-May to late June in the US.
Training commands like “leave it” can be particularly helpful. Check out some of Lemonade’s favorite puppy training videos for tips on how to get your dog to listen to you, and much more.
Also, during cicada season, avoid areas known for high cicada activity, such as wooded regions.
Cicadas, especially periodical cicadas like Brood X, Brood XIII, and Brood XIX, emerge in large numbers—sometimes in the trillions. A brood is a group of cicadas that appear together at the same time and place every 13 or 17 years.
Here are the main regions of the US to look out for cicadas:
Yes. Similar to dogs, it’s generally ok for cats to eat small quantities of cicadas. But if they eat a lot or show signs of vomiting, diarrhea, or discomfort, make sure to consult your vet right away.
While the sight of your dog chomping on cicadas might be amusing, the potential risks aren’t worth it.
But if your dog sneaks their way to the outdoor cicada buffet and needs a trip to the vet after, Lemonade pet insurance could help cover the cost of their treatment. Unexpected vet bills can be stressful, but with the right coverage, you can ensure your pet gets the care they need without breaking the bank.
Generally, there are no long-term effects if your dog eats a few cicadas. However, repeated or large quantity ingestion can lead to ongoing digestive issues. Always keep an eye on your dog during cicada emergence periods to prevent overindulgence, especially if they seem to have an appetite for the little critters.
While rare, dogs can have an allergic reaction to cicadas. This is more likely if your dog has a shellfish allergy, as cicadas are biologically similar to crustaceans. If your dog has known allergies, be extra cautious during cicada season.
The answer depends on the size of your dog. While a Great Dane might handle a few better than a Shih-Tzu, it’s best to prevent your dog from eating cicadas altogether. The risk of blockages and digestive issues increases with the quantity consumed.
Cicadas do have some nutritional value as they contain protein, fat, and certain vitamins and minerals, much like other insects. However, the risks associated with their hard exoskeletons and potential pesticide exposure outweigh the benefits for dogs and cats. If you are considering alternative protein sources for your pets, consult with your vet first.
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