If you have recently lost a pet, whether you had to make the decision or not, the truth is that it can be very hard on you. In fact, I recently wrote an article about dealing with your own grief after the loss of your pet, Are You Struggling with the Loss of Your Pet? If you want to, you can read it right here. 

That being said, your animals may also be grieving. To effectively help them, you need to know the specific signs to look for.

Here are some signs that your pet may also be grieving.

Changes in their personalities. 

Many pets form a strong bond with their owners and each other after one of their family members passes away. Others may become quieter and disinterested in things that used to interest them.

You may find that one of your pets spends more time sleeping than he or she used to. Others show signs of anxiety, pacing around the house, hiding, or just looking like they are sulking.

You may have to watch out for destructive behaviors. Some cats and dogs will start tearing up things in order to get your attention.

Changes in grooming. 

You may notice that your pets may not be grooming themselves as much as they normally do. Some cats may get rather matted quickly if they stop grooming themselves altogether.

Changes in bathroom habits. 

Your cat may miss the litter box due to anxiety and depression following the loss of a friend. Dogs may have accidents in the house for the same reason.

Changes in their appetite. 

Many pets don’t have as much of an appetite when they are grieving. Just like people, some pets get depressed enough that they just aren’t interested in eating as well as they used to.

If your deceased pet was the one who controlled the others, you might see this even more. If your pets were used to eating only when they ate, they may still be waiting for their friend to eat first. These pets are often unsure about what to do without their guidance.

Changes in vocalization. 

You may notice that your normally quiet dog starts barking excessively. If your dog is normally vocal, you may also notice that they are quieter than usual.

The same goes with cats. Some cats seem to be meowing and trying to find their lost friend, while others get abnormally quiet.

Looking around. 

You may also notice that your pets may continue to look around for their friend. They may visit their favorite spots multiple times a day, simply trying to figure out where their friend is. They may even take to sleeping in their spot, as if they are waiting for them to come home.

Although you may be grieving the loss of your pet, you also need to consider your other pets. They may also be dealing with their own grief in their own way. And just like people, it is different for everyone.

You may notice that your pets’ behavior changes. While he or she used to love to sit on your lap, your pet may be too preoccupied looking for their friend to do so. One of your other pets may cling to you or your other pets, seeking comfort.

Some become very anxious, vocalizing more than normal, while others spend more time sleeping. Some pets have accidents in the house (or outside their litter box) as a sign of grief and stress. You may even notice that they aren’t eating as well as they used to! They may even spend a lot of time waiting for their lost friend to come home.

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Please note, the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.