Source: Your Pet’s Wellbeing
Pets, like humans, can experience grief when they lose a bonded companion. While they may not process loss in the same way, dogs and cats often show signs of mourning, such as lethargy, loss of appetite, withdrawal, or searching for their missing friend. Their social nature makes the absence of a companion deeply impactful, especially when routines are disrupted.
Pets also pick up on their owners’ emotions, potentially intensifying their grief. Every pet grieves differently, so recognizing individual needs is crucial. To help a grieving pet, maintain a consistent routine, offer extra affection, and provide mental stimulation. However, avoid reinforcing negative behaviors like excessive whining.
Introducing a new pet too soon may not always be beneficial—observe your pet’s readiness before making that decision. Ultimately, grieving pets need patience and support to heal. Their mourning reflects the deep emotional connections they share with both their animal companions and humans.