Companion Animal Grief and Bereavement Support

Companion animals grieve the loss of bonded companions and family members. Recognising and supporting this grief is an important dimension of companion animal welfare.

Key Facts

Dogs show behavioural changes following loss of a bonded companion including reduced appetite and increased vocalisation
A 2022 ASPCA survey found 86% of dog owners reported behaviour changes in surviving pets after companion death
Cats may search for deceased companions and show social withdrawal for weeks to months
The duration of grief-related behaviour in animals varies widely between individuals
Providing additional positive interaction and maintaining routine helps many animals through bereavement
Some animals benefit from gradual introduction of new companions once acute grief has resolved

Welfare Considerations

Animal grief is a real phenomenon with biological roots in social bonding and loss. Surviving animals experience changes in behaviour, physiology, and welfare that parallel aspects of human bereavement. Dismissing animal grief as anthropomorphism delays appropriate welfare support. Owners can support grieving animals through maintained routine, additional gentle interaction, patience with behavioural changes, and veterinary consultation when grief appears prolonged or severe. The decision to acquire a new companion should be made based on the grieving animal needs and temperament rather than on a fixed timeline.

What You Can Do

Observe surviving pets carefully after loss of a bonded companion for welfare-relevant behaviour changes
Maintain routine and provide additional enrichment and gentle interaction during the grief period
Consult your vet if a surviving animal shows prolonged anorexia, severe lethargy, or self-harm
Allow your animal to set the pace for recovery rather than forcing interaction with new animals
Support pet bereavement counselling services that include guidance on supporting surviving animals