Companion Animals Grief
YES. Families that live together form close attachments.
When a companion animal dies, surviving pets may “cling” to their human family members, be more reactive to stimuli, appear anxious or depressed, or demonstrate a loss of interest in playing, sleeping, or eating.
These behavioural and emotional changes may be a temporary response to the loss, a distress response to the owners’ sadness, a distress response to changes in routine that occur as the result of the death, or an underlying medical condition.
What signs should I look for
Important Health Alert
If a cat stop eating, this can be a medical emergency. Please contact your veterinarian as soon as possible.
If a dog stop eating, alert your veterinarian.
Watch for changes in the relationships between surviving companion animals; particularly if the surviving pet often looked to the other pet for direction. Such reactions may be more common in species or individuals that show more elaborate social interactions.
It can be stressful whenever members are added or lost from groups of social animals. Remaining animals may begin to show signs of separation anxiety. These behaviours include panting, pacing, whining, drooling, howling, barking, and not eating treats while alone. When your pet is alone, video can be utilized to help monitor and record stress levels.
Exercise is the best non-drug stress reliever you have available for your pet. It can also be a helpful tool in managing your grief response. Prior to beginning a new exercise program with your pet, consult with your pet’s veterinarian.
There are now pheromones available, in sprays and atomizers, and collars, which may be effective tools for reducing your pet’s anxiety. Adaptil (DAP- dog appeasing pheromone) is a replication of the pheromone that a mother dog releases while nursing her young. For cats, Feliway is a replication of the calming cheek marking pheromone. Many veterinary clinics have those available.
For the most part, allow the companion animals to work out their own relationships. Punishment should be avoided as it increases levels of anxiety, fear, and aggression. Instead, try rewarding positive behaviours and interrupting undesired ones with obedience commands or redirection to a new activity.
Common underlying medical conditions can contribute to behavioural changes. A thorough medical examination may be needed to rule out these conditions.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding changes in a surviving companion animal’s behaviour, consult with your veterinarian, a veterinary behaviourist.