How Do Pets Grieve?
Pets form deep emotional bonds with the animals and humans in their lives. When a companion passes away, surviving pets often experience a period of grief that can be confusing and concerning for pet parents. Understanding how pets grieve is an important step in helping them adjust to the loss and begin to feel safe and secure again.
Grief in pets may show up in different ways depending on their personality and relationship with the companion they’ve lost. Common signs of pet grief include changes in appetite, low energy levels, increased vocalization, searching behaviors, or even withdrawal from social interaction. Some pets may sleep more than usual, while others may become restless or anxious. These behavioral changes are natural responses to the sudden absence of a familiar presence in their daily routine.
In multi-pet households, animals often rely on each other for companionship, comfort, and structure. When one pet is no longer there, the surviving animal may feel disoriented or stressed by the disruption in their environment. This emotional response is similar to separation anxiety and can sometimes lead to destructive behavior, loss of house training, or clinginess toward their human family members.
Supporting a grieving pet starts with maintaining consistency. Keeping feeding times, walks, and play sessions on a regular schedule can help restore a sense of normalcy and stability. Offering extra affection, mental stimulation, and opportunities for gentle exercise may also help reduce stress during this transition period. However, it’s important to monitor your pet’s health closely — prolonged symptoms such as refusal to eat or signs of depression may require guidance from a veterinarian.
Helping a pet cope with loss takes time and patience. With understanding, compassion, and routine care, most pets gradually adjust to life without their companion. By recognizing the signs of pet grief and offering consistent support, pet parents can play a vital role in helping their animals heal after loss.
