Dogs, cats, and other companion animals show behavioral signs of grief following the death of a companion — supporting them through this transition is a welfare responsibility.
Companion animal grief is a welfare consideration that owners often overlook in the context of their own bereavement. The loss of a companion animal affects not only the humans in the household but other resident animals who had formed social bonds with the deceased. Dogs and cats show clear behavioral indicators of grief that parallel the human experience in duration and intensity, though their expression differs. Supporting grieving animals requires maintaining consistent routines during a period of household disruption, providing additional reassurance and gentle interaction, and monitoring food intake and activity levels. The decision about when and whether to introduce a new companion should be made based on the surviving animal wellbeing rather than solely the human desire for company.