Animals experience grief when bonded companions die or are separated. Understanding companion animal bereavement enables owners and vets to provide appropriate support during a difficult welfare period.
Animal bereavement is a genuine welfare concern supported by behavioural and physiological evidence across species. A dog that stops eating, repeatedly visits familiar haunts of its companion, or shows prolonged altered sleep is experiencing something analogous to grief. These are welfare-relevant states that warrant owner and veterinary attention. For social species including rabbits and bonded horses, companionship replacement is an important welfare intervention. For dogs and cats, maintaining routine, physical contact, and enrichment provides the most effective support. Veterinary guidance on bereavement-related behaviour change prevents misdiagnosis and inappropriate intervention.