Companion Animal Grief: How Pets Mourn and How to Help

Dogs, cats, and other companion animals can experience grief following the loss of a companion. Understanding animal grief helps owners provide appropriate support.

Key Facts

Studies show dogs show behavioural changes following companion loss including reduced food intake and increased vocalisation
Cats may search for a deceased companion and show signs of depression
Social animals including parrots and rabbits are particularly affected by companion loss
Grief responses typically resolve over weeks to months with appropriate support
Forcing premature introduction of a new companion before grief resolves can cause further distress
Human grief at pet loss may impair the owner's ability to respond to surviving animals' needs

Welfare Considerations

Animal grief is real and requires compassionate management. A surviving dog that stops eating after losing a companion is experiencing genuine distress that warrants veterinary attention if prolonged. Providing extra attention, maintaining routine, and allowing natural resolution of grief supports the surviving animal. Premature replacement of a lost companion before the surviving animal has adjusted can cause social conflict and compound distress.

What You Can Do

Allow surviving companion animals time to adjust after companion loss before introducing new animals
Maintain routine and provide extra enrichment for animals showing grief responses
Consult your vet if a surviving animal stops eating or shows prolonged signs of distress