Pet Grief Support: How to Help Your Fur Baby

Losing a pet is a heart-wrenching experience for both pet parents and the other animals in the home, who may also grieve the loss of their beloved companion. Surviving pets may feel confused, sad, and anxious after the loss, which is why pet grief support is so important. Knowing how to support your pet through this challenging time can make a world of difference for their emotional well-being.

Let explore this topic more to understand how you can help your pet cope with grief.

Recognize the Signs of Pet Grief

Just like people, our pets will express grief in unique ways. And while not every animal will grieve openly in obvious ways, there are some common signs of pet grief to look for:

• Loss of appetite or changes in eating habits
• Withdrawal or isolation
• Increased clinginess or seeking more attention than usual
• Decreased interest in play or activities they once enjoyed
• Restlessness, pacing, or searching for the lost pet
• Increased vocalization, such as whining, howling, or meowing
• Sleeping more than usual or appearing lethargic

It’s important to reiterate that every pet is different, and how they grieve will also be different. Some pets may grieve for just a day or two, while others may take weeks or even months before they return to their normal behavior. By recognizing these signs, you can provide your fur baby the pet grief support they need.

Maintain a Routine

If your surviving pet is now the only animal in the home, they may feel anxious or uncertain about the environment. For this reason, sticking to your normal routine can help provide a sense of normalcy and security during the grieving process. So this means:

• Feed your pet at the same times each day
• Keep up with regular walks or playtime, even if your pet seems less interested
• Stick to a familiar sleeping schedule and offer them a comforting space to rest

Maintaining structure can help reduce anxiety and offer stability as your pet adjusts to life without their companion.

Offer Extra Comfort and Attention

During the grieving process, your pet may seek more comfort and reassurance from you. Be ready to offer them extra love, attention, and physical affection during this time. This can include:

• Extra cuddles or lap time, especially for pets that are normally more independent
• Gentle petting or massages to soothe their anxiety
• Offering a cozy blanket, bed, or a soft toy that they can snuggle with

For some pets, spending more time with their human family can help ease the loneliness they feel. Make a conscious effort to engage with them, even if it’s just sitting together quietly or giving them some extra belly rubs.

Encourage Physical Activity and Play

While it may be tempting to let your grieving pet rest, encouraging gentle physical activity can be incredibly therapeutic. Exercise helps release endorphins, which can lift their mood and ease feelings of sadness. Try to:

• Encourage play with their favorite toys, even if only for short periods
• Offer interactive toys or puzzle feeders that can engage their mind
• Take dogs for longer walks (if they are physically capable) or explore new routes to add excitement to their routine

Cats, who might seem more distant during grief, can also benefit from short bursts of interactive play. Try using a feather toy or laser pointer to engage their hunting instincts. Just remember to go at your pet’s pace and be patient if they seem uninterested at first.

Give Them Space When Needed

While your instinct may be to seek out your pet and shower them with love and affection 24/7, take their cues. If your pet seems to want solitude, be sure to give them some space to grieve on their own. Don’t force them into activities if they aren’t ready for them just yet. Instead, let them come to you.

Let Them Say Goodbye

If it’s possible, allowing your pet to see or smell their companion after they’ve passed can help them grasp what has happened. Not all pets need this sense of change and closure, but many do require it to understand that their friend is no longer there. By letting them say goodbye in their own way, you can give them a chance to process the loss in a manner that makes sense to them.

If this isn’t possible, you can try placing one of the lost pet’s favorite items (like a blanket or toy) in their bed or living space. This can provide a familiar scent and help the surviving pet cope with the absence.

Consider Companionship Carefully

Many pet parents wonder whether getting another pet can help their surviving animal cope with grief. While some pets may benefit from the companionship of a new friend, others may need more time to adjust. It’s important not to rush this decision, as moving too soon isn’t fair to your fur baby at home, or the new companion you bring into a home that’s just not ready. 

Consider your pet’s personality and needs:

• If your pet is showing signs of loneliness and withdrawal, a new companion might eventually help. But introduce any new pets gradually and in a way that minimizes stress.
• Some pets may prefer to be the only animal for a while, especially if they were very bonded with their lost companion.

Pay attention to how your pet responds and consult with a veterinarian or animal behaviorist if you’re unsure whether bringing in another pet is the right choice.

Final Thoughts on Pet Grief Support

The loss of a furry companion is never easy, and helping your surviving pet through their grief can be an emotional experience for both of you. But pet grief support and offering love, support, and understanding, can help you help your pet adjust to the changes in their life and find a new sense of normalcy. 

References:

1. https://www.dogstrust.org.uk/dog-advice/life-with-your-dog/beyond-ownership/dog-grief
2. https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/helping-your-grieving-pet
3. https://www.petmd.com/care/do-dogs-and-cats-grieve

The information contained on this blog is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary care. Always consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your pet's health care or treatment plan.

The authors of this blog are not veterinarians and do not claim to be experts in pet health. The information provided here is based on our own experiences and research, as well as information from reputable sources. However, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information.

We encourage you to do your own research and consult with your veterinarian before making any decisions about your pet's health.