Companion Animals

Companion Animal Grief and Human Loss

Companion animals can experience grief and behavioural changes following the death of a human owner or family member, requiring sensitive management.

Key Facts

Dogs and cats show behavioural changes after human bereavement in the household
Searching behaviour, vocalisation, reduced appetite, and depression are common grief responses
Animals may search for a deceased owner for weeks after their death
Human grief can also affect the care quality animals receive from surviving owners
Maintaining routines and providing extra attention supports grieving animals

Welfare Considerations

Companion animals experience genuine grief following the loss of bonded humans. Recognition of this experience and supportive management with consistent routines and attention improves welfare during bereavement.

What You Can Do

Maintain regular feeding and exercise routines for pets after human bereavement
Provide extra attention and comfort to pets showing grief behaviours
Be patient with behaviour changes - they typically resolve within weeks to months
Seek veterinary advice if grief-related behaviour is severe or prolonged
Ensure pets are provided for in estate planning if the primary owner dies