Do Pets Grieve?

Do pets grieve the loss of another household pet?  According to an article by Veterinarian Dr. Ann Hohenhaus for the Schwarzman Animal Medical Center, the answer is yes!

To quote Dr. Hohenhaus, “A survey of several hundred pet owners in New Zealand and Australia reported on the behavior of the surviving dog after the loss of an animal companion. Dog families reported behavior changes in 74% of dogs. The most common behavior changes were demanding more owner attention and spending time in the favorite spot of the deceased companion. Dogs ate more slowly and smaller amounts of food than when their companion was alive, but only if the companion was another dog. About one third of owners reported their dog slept more after the death of their companion.

Grief in cats seems to be similar to that in dogs. Like dogs, cats demanded more attention from their owners after their companion’s passing. Cats also spent more time in the favorite spot of the deceased pet. There was one finding specific to cats, however. Grieving cats increased the frequency and volume of their vocalization. This finding was true if the deceased companion was either another cat or a dog. All this suggests dog and cat grieve the loss of an animal companion.”

Dr. Hohenhaus concludes by stating that stories of pet grief abound, including dogs refusing to eat for a week after the death of another household pet and intense personality changes in surviving animals.  The good news is, however, that most studies indicate that grieving pets return to normal behavior within six months.

Whatever the circumstance, pet experts agree that it’s important to be willing to give your pets a little extra TLC during the grieving process.  Watch for their cues.  At times, pets may require a little extra attention, while others may need a little space.  With time and love, grief will usually subside and their behavior will return to normal, but don’t hesitate to reach out to your veterinarian if you have questions or concerns.

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Article Source:

https://www.amcny.org/blog/2022/09/07/do-pets-grieve-the-loss-of-another-pet-the-answer-is-yes/