A solar eclipse can cause temporary changes in the behaviour of some animals due to the sudden reduction in light, the drop in temperature and the disruption to their usual routines. Dogs and cats may appear indifferent, seek out a place to rest or show some signs of unease if they notice changes in their surroundings.
For most pets, the eclipse does not cause any health problems in itself. The main risk is usually linked to crowds, noise, travel and people’s excitement during the event. It is therefore best to keep pets in a familiar, calm environment.
On 12 August 2026, a solar eclipse will be visible from Spain. In Alicante, it will be a partial eclipse of significant magnitude and will occur around sunset, so some pets may interpret the darkening of the sky as the start of night.
What changes can an eclipse cause in dogs and cats?
Animals use ambient light as one of the cues that regulate their cycles of activity, rest and feeding. When the light suddenly dims during an eclipse, some may behave as if it were getting dark.
Dogs may appear calmer, seek out their owners, want to go home or feel restless if there is noise and movement around them. Cats may hide, rest, become less active or head for their usual sleeping spots.
These reactions are usually brief and disappear when the power comes back on. Many dogs and cats show no noticeable change.
Can animals get frightened during an eclipse?
Yes, although their fear is not usually directly caused by the eclipse. Some animals may react to sudden changes in light, noises, celebrations, traffic, crowds of people or disruptions to their routine.
Pets that are sensitive to noise, suffer from anxiety or are easily frightened may become restless, pant, tremble, hide, vocalise or try to escape. In such cases, it is best to provide them with a safe space and maintain as normal a routine as possible.
If your dog or cat shows signs of intense fear in response to noises, events or changes in their environment, a veterinary practice in Benissa It can help you assess their behaviour and put in place measures tailored to their individual situation.
Can a dog or a cat look directly at the eclipse?
Dogs and cats do not usually stare at the Sun of their own accord, either during an eclipse or on a normal day. The risk to their eyes is therefore lower than for people, who may be curious and look directly at the phenomenon.
Even so, you should not lift your pet up, point its head towards the sky or encourage it to look at the eclipse. It is also not advisable to put eclipse glasses designed for humans on your pet, as they may not fit properly, cause stress or slip out of place whilst being worn.
The safest option is to keep your dog or cat indoors or in a sheltered area, without encouraging them to look towards the sun.
How to protect your pet during a solar eclipse
Most animals do not require any special medical care, but these recommendations may help to prevent stress and accidents:
- Keep your dog or cat indoors during the eclipse, especially if they get easily frightened.
- Close doors, windows, balconies and any other potential points of air leakage.
- Stick to their usual routine for meals, rest and walks.
- Avoid taking them to viewpoints, gatherings or crowded places.
- Set up a quiet room with their bed, water and toys.
- Don’t force the animal to go outside or look up at the sky.
- If you need to take your pet out, use a lead or a carrier and make sure it has a microchip and identification.
- Do not administer sedatives or medication without veterinary advice.
For particularly sensitive dogs, it is best to go for a walk earlier to avoid the busiest times of the day. Cats with access to the outdoors should be kept indoors before, during and after the eclipse.
Is it a good idea to take my pet to watch the eclipse?
It is not usually advisable. The locations chosen for viewing eclipses can attract large crowds, vehicles, noise and unfamiliar objects. This environment can cause stress and increase the risk of dogs pulling on their leads, running away, fighting, suffering from heatstroke or ingesting debris.
Your pet doesn’t need to watch the eclipse to benefit from the experience. Generally speaking, it will be safer at home, in a familiar environment and in the company of a calm person.
How does the eclipse affect birds and other animals?
Some birds may reduce their vocalisations, return to their roosting areas or temporarily behave as if dusk were falling. Nocturnal insects may become more active, and some outdoor animals may briefly alter their routines.
In the case of horses, farm animals and other species that live outdoors, it is generally best to maintain their usual environment and routine. After the eclipse, it is advisable to check that they do not have any injuries, show signs of fear or exhibit any persistent changes in behaviour.
There is no need to confine or move an animal that is calm and accustomed to its surroundings, unless there is a risk of it escaping, nearby crowds or a history of anxiety.
What to do if my pet gets anxious
Let her take refuge wherever she chooses, and avoid chasing her or forcing contact. You can close the blinds, minimise outside noise and offer her her bed, toys or a quiet activity.
Behave as you normally would and do not punish panting, vocalisations, trembling or attempts to hide. These behaviours may indicate fear and require a calm response.
If your pet has a history of severe anxiety, attempts to escape or severe reactions to noise and changes in their environment, please consult your vet in advance. Do not use tranquillisers, natural remedies or human medication without veterinary supervision.
When to contact Benivet Benissa
Please seek veterinary advice if, after the eclipse, your dog or cat continues to display abnormal behaviour, appears disoriented, has difficulty seeing, has abnormal pupils, is experiencing eye pain, has persistent tremors, is struggling to breathe, is extremely lethargic, or is showing any other symptoms that cause you concern.
At Benivet Benissa, we can assess whether the change is linked to stress, anxiety, environmental exposure or a medical condition that may have coincided with the eclipse.
If you need advice before or after the eclipse and you live in Benissa, Calpe or the Marina Alta, you can Contact Benivet Benissa to book a vet’s appointment.
Benivet Benissa
Av. del País Valencià, 10, 03720 Benissa
Tel. +34 622 325 271
Email: info@benivetbenissa.com
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 9:30-18:30 - Sat 10:00-13:00
