How to spot the signs of grief in pets – and 5 ways to support them

Dog's head lying on the floor looking into the distance with a sad look and watery eye, with a blue wall behind.

Losing a pet can be just as difficult as losing a family member, and feelings of sadness, loneliness and isolation are all very common. If you live in a multi-pet household, it can also be a challenging time for your other pets – not only have they lost a friend, but they may also pick up on changes in the familiar routine and dynamics of their home.

A study published in the journal Animals found that both cats and dogs are capable of grieving after the loss of an animal friend. Owners reported behavioral changes, such as increased attention-seeking and searching for their companion's old sleeping spot.