Did you know that Mercury retrograde can also impact your pets, meaning their behaviour is different to normal? An astrologist has shared the signs to look out for...

Mercury retrograde is in full swing and will last until July 23 - but did you know it also impacts your pets as well as you?

In astrology, when Mercury goes retrograde, the planet of communication and technology appears to move backwards in the sky due to an optical illusion. This phase is infamous for causing technical glitches, travel delays, miscommunications, and the sudden resurfacing of people from the past, according to The Astrology Podcast. But professional astrologist Antonella from Psychic World explored how the retrograde specifically affects animals, key signs to look out for, and discussed five practical ways to realign your pet’s heightened energy in this period. Here's what she said...

How does Mercury retrograde affect animals?

During the retrograde period, June 29 to July 23, 2026, pets reportedly experience an increase in primitive, instinctual behaviour, alongside a return to youthful behaviour or even a return of previous ailments.

She said: "The Mercury retrograde tends to bring pets back to their most primal form; the retrograde is a time where emotional instability runs riot, normal routine and balance are knocked off kilter.

"Mercury retrograde often brings past issues back into focus, and this can include our pets. During this time, old health concerns or familiar behavioural patterns may resurface, especially if they were never fully resolved. This may cause a lot of distress for owners, but it's important for them to understand that this passes as the retrograde lifts."

Key behaviours to look out for during the retrograde

1. Zoomies

Energetic and instinct-driven, pets may respond to longer daylight by becoming more active than usual. Whether it’s racing around the house, wanting extra playtime or staying alert later into the evening, these bursts of energy can be a sign they are adjusting to the seasonal shift.

2. Unusual behaviour with other pets

The emotional deregulation pets experience during the period often shows itself through animal interactions. Unusual aggression and unexpected boisterousness become more common when faced with other pets, even if this is completely out of character for your pet.

3. Resistance to owners

Due to the retrograde’s resurfacing of the past, pets often fall back into behaviours they exercised as pups/kittens. Uncertainty and suspicion are the main ways this is displayed, as if your pet has just been introduced to you and the environment.

4. Increase in general mischief

Ripping up shoes and socks, chasing birds, repeatedly bringing in dead animals, and unexpected and repetitive vocalisation are just a few ways our pets act out their confusion and frustration during the retrograde. It is also very common for pets to bolt during walks; even if they would never usually stray a few metres from your side, it's really crucial to be mindful of this.

Ways you can support your pet during the retrograde

1. Maintain routine

To balance the frantic, hyperactive energy shift your pets will be feeling, it's extremely important to maintain a clear, structured routine. Meal times, play times and nap times should remain consistent day to day. This is the most valuable tip for any pet owner while navigating life during the retrograde period.

2. Ensure pets are microchipped and their information is up to date

As discussed, pets may unexpectedly dart off during the retrograde period. Ensure all animals have tags with up-to-date information in case of this. I also recommend all owners get their pets microchipped. And if you plan to keep your animals on a leash in public parks, which I would suggest, ensure the gear is new. Even opt for a harness to provide control during their spikes of energy.

3. Manage nutrition

During this time, it can be common for previous illnesses to flare up as the retrograde brings things from the past. To combat this, you must ensure your pet's food is of the highest quality so they get all the vitamins they need to maintain their immune system.

For dogs, choose whole foods during this period; I would suggest cooked chicken, beef, fish, carrot, green beans, blueberries, apple, peanut butter, cauliflower and pumpkin. For cats, focus on options like cooked chicken, turkey, beef, or fish, with small amounts of pumpkin.

4. Spend one-to-one quiet time with them

During the retrograde, your pet's nervous system will be firing on all cylinders. It's important to try to find some time to bring your pet's energy levels back down to normal once throughout the day. This can be in the form of relaxing on the sofa in the evening, giving them plenty of tummy rubs.

This will be tricky at first, as their energy levels are so out of whack; this is the last thing they will want to do, but it's important to stay consistent, and after a week, you will begin to see progress.

5. Remain calm

As pet owners, we all know pets can feel our energy, mood and emotions. During the retrograde, it may be frightening to see this unexpected shift in our animals, but showing that to our pets breaks their trust in us and exacerbates their feelings of uncertainty.

It's important to remember their behaviours will soon pass, this is just a normal process. It shows our animals that we can support them and provide them with stability during this chaotic time.