Will the solar eclipse drive the animals wild on Monday?

With solar eclipse fever growing, there’s little doubt that we humans are excited to see the moon blot out the sun, but there’s some debate on whether our pets will be just as excited.

Because eclipses, especially total eclipses of the sun, are so infrequent, not a lot of research has been done. Instead, we rely on anecdotal evidence.

Some experts say that in past eclipses, some pets have gotten a bit freaked out, while others say it’s more likely the animals were reacting to the excited nature of their owners. No matter who’s right, we need to pay attention to our pets and head off any issues before they become problems.

Dogs

Of all the common pets, it’s our dogs that could be the most upset by the eclipse. There are accounts of dogs becoming frightened, howling and running away — reactions usually associated with fireworks.

There’s no explanation for why dogs would react this way, and reactions can differ depending on whether they are in the “path of totality” or merely on the edge.

Keep an eye on your dogs, and be prepared to give them comfort if they should start getting anxious. Keeping them safely indoors is a good idea, but if you take them outside keep them leashed, and make sure they are wearing identification.

Cats

Show of hands. Who thinks cats will be just as upset over the eclipse as dogs? You must not have a cat in your life.

There are no reports of cats being phased by eclipses. Like most everything else — except for the rattling of plastic bags and the sound of the can opener — cats take it all in stride, mostly ignoring it.

Birds

Birds, like dogs, have been known to get a bit upset during an eclipse. Their reactions range from loud squawking and flapping their wings against their cages, to merely thinking it’s time for bed.

If your bird is normally excitable, you could launch a preemptive strike and cover their cages as we head into the eclipse, and remove it once the sun is back out.

You might also hear a lot of commotion coming from wild birds, or they might suddenly fall silent. The birds should resume their regular activities once the eclipse is over.

Other animals and critters

Most other animals don’t seem bothered by the sudden, brief darkness. Cows might head back toward the barn, thinking it nighttime, while chimps have been known to climb higher into trees to get a better look.

Orb spiders have been seen quickly tearing down their webs, something they usually only do at night, and then hastily rebuilding when the eclipse ends.

Eye damage

Some pet owners are worried about their animals hurting their eyes by viewing the eclipse without protection, but veterinarians and biologists say the risk is very small.

It’s not in cats’ and dogs’ natures to stare at the sun, so there’s little reason to suspect they’ll stare at the eclipse unless we try to direct their attention to it. If you’re concerned, make sure your pet has a pair of protective lenses to wear or keep them indoors.

Report your findings

Let me know how your pet reacts to the eclipse, if at all. Email the details, along with your pet’s name and species, to jmorris@bayareanewsgroup.com. Put “eclipse” in the subject line.