Do Pets Grieve the Loss of Other Pets?
Pets form deep bonds with each other, and just like humans, they can experience grief when their companion passes away. When you’re navigating your own grief following the loss of a pet, your other furry friends may look to you for comfort while they process their feelings. Below, you’ll learn more about how pets grieve and ways you can support them during this transitional period.
How to Tell if Your Pet Is Grieving
Since pets can’t express their feelings in words, keep an eye out for the following behavioral changes that may indicate they are experiencing grief.
They Experience Changes in Appetite
After experiencing a loss, some pets may lose interest in food or eat less than usual. If your pet shows a sudden change in appetite after losing a companion, it could be a sign of grief, and it’s important to monitor their eating to help them stay healthy.
They Engage in Seeking Behavior
When pets grieve, they often show signs of searching for their missing friend. You might notice them pacing around the house and sniffing areas where the other pet used to spend time. This seeking behavior is their way of trying to understand where their companion has gone. They may continue to search these areas until they adjust to the new absence in the home.
Their Habits Change
Grief can cause your pet’s routine and behavior to change. A once playful or energetic pet may withdraw, spending more time sleeping. On the other hand, pets who were once independent may become clingy, following you around and seeking extra attention and comfort. These changes in habit are often temporary as your pet adjusts to the new normal.
They Change Their Grooming Habits
Grieving pets may also express their feelings by changing their grooming habits. This is especially common for cats. A normally meticulous cat may begin to groom less in the days following the loss of their companion. On the flip side, some pets may over-groom as a way to self-soothe, leading to excessive licking or chewing of their fur.
What You Can Do to Help Your Pets Grieve
Grieving pets will look to their loving parents to help them through this unfamiliar time. Here are a few ways you can support your pet while they grieve.
Spend Quality Time With Them
Grief can make pets feel lonely or anxious, so being there for them—whether it’s through gentle petting, sitting by their side, or simply talking to them—can provide much-needed support. Spending quality time together helps reassure your pet that they are not alone during a confusing and difficult period.
Engage in Enrichment Activities
Keeping your pet’s mind and body engaged can help distract them from their grief. Enrichment activities like playing with new toys can provide mental stimulation and a healthy outlet for their emotions. Physical activities like walks and extended playtime can also help them release pent-up energy and stress.
Maintain a Consistent Routine
Pets thrive on routine, and maintaining consistency is key to helping them feel secure during times of grief. Sticking to a familiar routine for feeding times, walks, etc., can help reduce additional stress and anxiety they may feel after the loss of their companion.
Stay Positive in Your Interactions With Them
Pets can sense when you’re grieving, too, which can cause them more stress. Try to speak to your pets in an upbeat tone and display positive energy towards them, which can signal to them that everything is going to be okay.
Talk to Your Vet
If your pet’s grief lasts for an extended period, it’s a good idea to consult your vet for advice on how to support your pet best. The vet can also check for underlying health issues that could be contributing to the changes in your pet’s behavior and mood.
Here to Offer Support
We understand that being there for your pet can be difficult when grieving a loss yourself. Remember that you’re not alone. Pet Passages has bereavement support resources to help your whole family through this difficult time.