The night sky will offer an unparalleled visual show on March 14, when the earth stands between the sun and the moon, which causes a total lunar eclipse, a phenomenon known as a red moon or blood moon, which could be visible in the country.
Although for astronomical events the blood moon is captivating, in animals it can have negative effects, causing alterations in their behavior due to the modification of the circadian cycle, also known as a biological clock.
The sudden darkness of heaven, followed by the return to night normality, can alter their perception of time and cause them stress, changes in eating habits and even their behavior.
In domestic pets, such as dogs, cats or birds, this phenomenon has mild effects, while in wildlife can trigger aggressive behaviors, early migration or disorientation.
María de los Ángeles Balan, a veterinarian, stressed that studies reveal that the effect on pets is milder because they are not directly exposed to the phenomenon. In addition, so that the effect on animals is significant, it must be a long -lasting eclipse. Despite this, it is recommended not to expose them to avoid complications.
How the lunar eclipse affects pets and what to do to protect them
Just as humans, pets are also governed by the pineal gland in relation to the circadian cycle, which is linked to exposure to sunlight and regulates the so -called biological clock. Therefore, an interruption in the usual pattern of light can generate physiological effects in your body.
Víctor Girón, veterinarian, explained that during a lunar eclipse, especially a total one such as the one that will occur on March 14, animals such as birds, dogs and cats may experience disorientation and behavior changes, given that the sudden darkness alters its perception of time.
In the case of dogs and cats, specialists recommend being attentive to any manifestation of restlessness and try to accompany them during the visual event. Avoid exposing them to stress or noise situations. To help them, it is recommended to use soothing alternatives that decrease the impact of stress.
Strategies to calm a pet
Girón stressed that there are useful alternatives to calm pets during this period. For cats, there are diffusers or sprays with pheromones that help maintain a relaxed environment.
In the case of dogs, pheromones are also available, as well as pills made of natural compounds with reassuring effects. In addition, oils with lavender essence can be used, which has proven to be effective in reducing anxiety in some animals, added the expert.
Lunar eclipse can have more significant effects on birds, according to experts, because these species are strongly influenced by natural light.
During the eclipse, they are likely to seek refuge in interpreting the darkness as the beginning of the night, Girón said.
Balan stressed that the confusion produced by the abrupt change of light could lead to many animals to sleep suddenly due to the biological alteration it causes.
Veterinary doctors detail that this effect is due to the fact that, with the change of light, animals receive a biological signal emitted by the pineal gland that indicates that they should sleep. Then, when suddenly waking up and seeing the clear sky again, they can experience confusion.
It has also been observed that some animals show signs of stress by vocalizing more frequently, and in the case of birds, there could be migratory movements associated with this phenomenon, Girón said.
Possible physiological effects of eclipse
According to veterinarians, astronomical phenomena such as blood moon can intensify diseases related to diseases, as well as advance deliveries in various species.
The phases of the moon, according to Girón, can cause an advance in the natural birth of animals, especially during an eclipse. The alteration in gravity or light could influence the completion of the gestation process of those animals close to giving birth, he emphasized.
Likewise, it has been identified that animals suffering from chronic diseases, especially bone or muscular type, may have an increase in symptoms during these events, so it is recommended to protect pets and apply their treatments or medications to avoid alterations.
Recommendations to protect pets:
- Pets should not be exposed directly to the eclipse; They must remain in a safe and comfortable space inside the home.
- It is recommended to create a quiet environment through the use of pheromone diffusers, interactive toys, skiders and welfare feeders.
- It is advisable to apply relaxing pets, available on digital platforms such as YouTube.
- It should be avoided by transmitting the stress of their caregivers, since animals perceive the emotional state of people.
- In the case of dogs, it is preferable to feed them before sunset, to prevent effects in their appetite during the phenomenon.
- It is important to stay attentive to any alteration in your behavior and consult with the veterinarian if necessary.
Girón commented that although lunar eclipse has notable effects on animals, solar eclipses tend to be more drastic due to the complete interruption of sunlight, which can cause more severe reactions in the animal body.
In addition, it is recommended not to force pets to witness these phenomena, since they could have ocular irritation or discomfort by incident radiation, as in humans.
People believe that the eyes of animals are more resistant than those of the human, but this is not true, since this organ is sensitive in every living being. Therefore, animals should not be exposed to see these phenomena, he concluded.