Cats experience behavioural and physiological changes following the death of a bonded companion, and owner awareness of feline grief supports welfare during bereavement.
Feline grief welfare is an area where owner awareness makes a direct difference. Cats that are showing grief responses - reduced appetite, searching behaviour, vocalisation, and lethargy - are experiencing genuine distress that may require supportive management. Veterinary assessment is warranted if grief signs are severe or prolonged, as depression-like states in cats can respond to environmental enrichment or in severe cases, medication. Owners should maintain routines, provide extra attention and interaction, and allow the grieving cat to engage in normal activities rather than restricting them. The decision to acquire a new companion should be based on the individual cat's social needs and progress through grief rather than a fixed timeline.