Companion animals experience grief responses following the loss of human or animal companions. Understanding and supporting animals through bereavement improves their welfare during vulnerable transitions.
Companion animal grief is a genuine welfare concern that owners sometimes underestimate or attribute to other causes. Bereaved animals may show reduced appetite, disrupted sleep, searching behaviour, and increased vocalisation - all indicators of psychological distress. Supporting grieving animals requires maintaining predictable routines, increasing quality interaction time, and monitoring for physical health impacts of stress. Forcing rapid socialisation with replacement companions before a grieving animal is ready can worsen rather than improve welfare. Acknowledging animal grief and responding appropriately is part of responsible companion animal stewardship.