Companion animals experience genuine grief when they lose bonded companions. Understanding and supporting the grieving process is an important aspect of multi-pet household welfare.
Companion animal grief is well-documented but often dismissed or unrecognized by owners who attribute behavioral changes to unrelated causes. Animals bonded to deceased companions show behavioral and physiological changes consistent with grief — elevated cortisol, disrupted sleep, reduced interest in play and interaction. Supporting grieving animals involves maintaining routine, providing additional attention and enrichment, allowing natural resolution of the grief process, and — in some cases — considering a new companion when the animal is ready. Rushing to replace a companion or forcing interactions can worsen distress.