Approximately 180 million people live in or near the region. Solar eclipse in 2024 On the path to totality, many pet owners may be wondering how a solar eclipse affects animal behavior and how their pets will react.
Veterinarians said they were responding to questions from some concerned pet owners about the effects of the eclipse on their animals. After all, solar eclipses occur so rarely that there is no clear answer for pet owners. Researchers observed the reactions of animals during the April solar eclipse and found that learn more About how it affects animals.
“There's not a lot of scientific research done on the subject of animals and solar eclipses because they don't happen often,” said Dr. Jerry Klein, chief veterinary officer for the American Kennel Club. “And a lot of that is just anecdotal reports, just volunteer information.”
Do solar eclipses affect animals?
Although there isn't a lot of information, veterinarians and animal researchers have some idea of how the eclipse affects dogs, cats, and more.
Dr. Katie Krebs, a veterinarian and professor at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, said, “Although most animals will not be affected overall by the eclipse, pet owners may notice short-term disruption, and dogs and cats may may show fear and confusion.” .
Krebs said pets may hide, howl, pace or pant during the eclipse. When the sky darkens, some pets may start their night life early.
Dr. Rebecca Greenstein, a veterinary expert at pet care company Rover, said the average indoor dog or cat would likely not be affected by the eclipse.
“So owners should be relieved and relieved to know that,” Greenstein said.
Why do solar eclipses affect animals?
Klein said the eclipse doesn't affect pets, it affects people's behavior.
“They're going to take cues from us,” Klein said. “So if you keep them indoors and we don't try to force them into special situations, there should be minimal to no response.”
Klein said eclipse parties draw large numbers of people, and pets could be affected if they are brought along to those large gatherings. Travel, noise, and crowds can be stressful for animals.
Some animals that rely on light-dark cycles, like birds, may be more affected because the sky darkens during an eclipse, Krebs said.
“Things like fireworks and thunderstorms are much more important phenomena than solar eclipses, which probably only last a few minutes,” Greenstein said.
Can animals see a solar eclipse without going blind?
Klein said pet owners shouldn't force their pets to see the sun. Animals generally know not to stare into the sun. I learned that doing so can leave you temporarily blind and vulnerable.
“Dogs know that if something hurts them, it probably shouldn't be done,” Klein says. “So if you leave your dog alone, he probably won't stare into the sun.”
Veterinarians say pets may also look up when they see people around them preoccupied with looking up at the sky.
“Dogs follow their owners' cues, so if you're distracted looking up, the dog relies on your cues to figure out what to do,” Greenstein says. “So for now, it's better not to take the kids with you, or if you do, it's better to reassure them with their favorite toys and treats and keep them distracted by what's going on on the ground.” It might be good.”
Krebs said pet owners don't need special eclipse glasses for their dogs or cats.
If you have eclipse glasses, Klein says, be careful not to leave them unattended with pets. Because your pet may chew or eat it. solar eclipse glasses Do not use anything with scratches or holes.
Should I keep my pet indoors or outdoors during a solar eclipse?
Veterinarians agree that it's likely best to keep your pet indoors during the eclipse, especially if your pet is stressed by crowds or events like storms or fireworks.
“If possible, keep them indoors in a more secure and comfortable environment, because this feeling is probably the most important thing,” Klein says.
Pet owners who plan to go to an eclipse event should respect their pets' boundaries.
“Not all animals are good at crowds or being distracted by other things, so it's probably best to leave them at home or hire a trusted pet sitter,” says Green. Stein says.
Veterinarians say pet owners can try distracting their pets at home with their favorite toys. Anxious pets may benefit from taking anti-anxiety medications during the eclipse, but owners should check with their veterinarian for more information before giving their dog or cat any medication, Krebs said. .
“If you plan on staying home during the eclipse, your pet may want extra attention and comfort, so providing extra comfort and reassurance may be helpful,” Krebs says.
Other pet safety tips to keep in mind
If you decide to take your dog to an eclipse event, Klein says it's important to make sure it's microchiped with up-to-date information in case your dog gets stressed and runs away. says. While you're there, make sure it's well controlled on a leash.
“Overall, we don't think this represents a significant risk, but pet owners should definitely use their judgment,” Greenstein said.
