Companion Animal Grief: Supporting Pets After Bereavement

Companion animals can experience grief responses following the loss of a bonded companion animal or human, with behavioural and physiological changes that require understanding and appropriate management.

Key Facts

Dogs and cats show behavioural changes after losing a bonded companion including reduced activity, appetite, and vocalisation
The ASPCA survey found approximately 36% of dogs showed reduced appetite and 11% stopped eating after a companion's death
Elevated stress indicators including cortisol levels have been measured in dogs and cats following companion loss
The grief response typically resolves over weeks to months but can be prolonged in some individuals
Human bereavement of a household member causes similar grief responses in companion animals

Welfare Considerations

Pet grief is real and causes genuine welfare impacts. Bereaved animals may stop eating, lose interest in activities they previously enjoyed, sleep more, and show anxiety symptoms. The severity and duration vary by individual and by the closeness of the bond with the deceased. Owners who dismiss their pet's grief response as 'just an animal' may inadvertently withhold the support and management changes that would help. Maintaining routine, providing extra attention and engagement, and allowing the animal time to adjust is appropriate management for bereaved pets.

What You Can Do

Recognise that your pet may genuinely grieve following the loss of a bonded companion
Maintain your pet's normal routine as much as possible during bereavement
Provide extra attention and gentle engagement to support a grieving pet
Consult your vet if grief symptoms including appetite loss persist for more than a few weeks
Consider whether introducing a new companion animal is appropriate - timing matters