Companion Animal Welfare

Companion Animal Grief and Loss

Companion animals experience grief responses following the loss of bonded companions, requiring owner recognition and appropriate support during the bereavement period.

Key Facts

Dogs and cats show behavioural changes after losing bonded companions
Symptoms include searching behaviour, reduced appetite, and lethargy
Individual variation in grief responses is significant across animals
Providing extra attention and routine maintenance helps grieving animals
Some animals benefit from a gradual introduction to a new companion after adequate recovery time

Welfare Considerations

Companion animal grief is a real welfare phenomenon that causes genuine distress in affected individuals. Owners who recognise and respond appropriately to grief responses provide essential support during a vulnerable period, while those who dismiss the response may inadvertently prolong or deepen the animal's distress.

What You Can Do

Maintain routine and provide extra attention for animals who have lost companions
Recognise that grief recovery time varies between individuals
Consult a veterinarian if grief responses are prolonged or severe