Updated 29 May 2026
When we lose a pet, the grief we feel can be immense. But what about the other pets who shared our home? Do dogs and cats experience grief at the loss of their companion? And if they do, how can we help them cope?
Do dogs and cats know when another pet has died?
While we can’t know exactly what animals understand about death, dogs and cats are incredibly perceptive. They notice changes in their environment, routines, and in your emotions.
When a familiar companion is suddenly missing, pets may become confused or unsettled. They may wander the house searching for them, show signs of stress, or seem more withdrawn or clingy. Your own sadness can also affect them, as pets are sensitive to emotional cues from their humans.
How to tell if your pet is grieving
Pets can’t use words to express sadness or anxiety, instead, you will often spot subtle changes in their behaviour.
Just like people, grief can look different amongst pets, but common signs in grieving dogs and cats may include:
- Decreased appetite
- Lower energy levels and motivation
- Changes in sleeping patterns
- Toileting accidents or unusual toileting behaviour
- Seeking extra comfort or affection
- Changes in grooming habits – either overgrooming or neglecting grooming
These behavioural shifts may overlap with signs of stress, anxiety, or underlying medical issues in dogs and cats, so it’s important to visit your vet if you notice any significant or prolonged changes. A quick check-up could rule out illness and ensure your pet’s wellbeing during this sensitive time.
How to support a grieving pet
Just like us, animals need time, patience, and love to work through loss. Here are some ways to help your pet adjust.
Keep their routine as consistent as possible
Dogs and cats are creatures of habit that take comfort in their routines. Maintaining regular feeding routines, walk times, and play sessions can give them a sense of stability when everything else feels uncertain. Even small disruptions, like changing walk or meal times, can add to their stress. Consistency will help them feel secure and comfortable.
Give them time to adjust
It can take weeks or even months for pets to adapt to life without their companion. Be patient and observe their behaviour closely. In multi-pet households, monitor interactions carefully — sometimes the change in dynamics can lead to confusion or aggression.
Avoid rushing into adopting a new pet too soon. Introducing a new animal can further disrupt your pet’s routine and emotional adjustment. Wait until both you and your pet are ready.
Offer additional comfort (if they seek it)
Some pets will seek closeness, following you around or curling up beside you more often. Others may prefer solitude. Let your pet set the pace.
When they do seek affection, offer it freely; an extra cuddle, a longer walk, or a few special treats can go a long way in reassuring them they’re safe and loved.
Provide physical and mental enrichment and distraction
Mental stimulation can help lift your pet’s mood and ease anxiety. Try:
- Puzzle toys or stuffed treat occupier toys
- New walking routes with different smells and sights
- Interactive play sessions and scratching posts for cats
- Window perches so indoor cats can safely watch the world outside
Keeping their mind engaged is always beneficial for your pet’s wellness, but even more so as they adjust to their new normal.
Seek veterinary help if you’re concerned
If your pet’s sadness doesn’t ease over time, for instance if they stop eating, withdraw completely, or seem depressed, it’s best to seek veterinary help.
Veterinarians can assess whether your pet’s behaviour is linked to grief, illness, or a combination of both, and may suggest behavioural support or medication to help them through.
Supporting each other through loss
The loss of a pet is difficult for everyone, both people and animals. While grief can be overwhelming, especially when trying to navigate what to do in the immediate aftermath of a pet’s death, it’s important to remember to be there to support our surviving pets.
As you take time to process emotions and help them through their sadness, you may find comfort in navigating this difficult time together as you remember the good times and with the one you lost.
About the Author
Rebecca Daly BVScVeterinarian & Content Writer
After graduating with a Bachelor of Veterinary Science from the University of Queensland in 2017, Rebecca spent two years working as an equine veterinarian in New Zealand. Upon returning to Australia, she completed a Bachelor of Communications from UQ in 2023. Rebecca is passionate about educating pet parents so they can provide the best lives for their pets. She is the pet parent of a cat named Edith, a domestic short hair adopted from a Petbarn Adoption Centre.
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