Animals grieve the loss of companions — both human and animal — and understanding this emotional experience helps caregivers provide better support during bereavement.
Grief in animals is real and should not be dismissed. Animals experiencing loss may stop eating, become lethargic, search repeatedly for the missing companion, or show anxiety. Caregivers can help by maintaining routines, providing extra attention, using pheromone diffusers, and consulting veterinary behaviorists if grief becomes prolonged. In multi-pet households, allowing surviving animals to see a deceased companion can sometimes reduce searching behavior.