How Do Pets Grieve?

Pets can often grieve a loss just as a human would. It is proven that there are chemical changes in the brain of an animal that has recently experienced a trauma or loss of a human or animal companion that they were close to. Animals will often refuse to eat, and act lethargic and uninterested when experiencing grief.

Loss of Appetite

• A common symptom of depression and grief in your pet is a lack of appetite. Pets that are grieving will often refuse to eat due to their unhappiness. You should keep a close eye on a pet that is not eating.

• Always be sure that they are still drinking plenty of water so that they do not become dehydrated. Provide treats to your pet that will entice them into eating if you have to.
  

Depression

• Pets can often experience signs of depression after the loss of a pet companion or a human owner that they have become attached to and then separated from due to circumstances out of the owner’s control.

• Pets will act lethargic and tired, and may often show no interest in things that they love such as their daily walks, or play time. Remember to give your pet plenty of love during this to encourage them to perk up.

Rule Out Other Problems

• If your pet is experiencing symptoms that coincide with grief and depression, you may want to take them in to get a professional opinion from your local vet just to be sure there is no underlying health condition that could be causing the problems.

• If your pet has recently experienced a loss of a companion or a change in owner, you should wait about two weeks for the symptoms to subside. If they do not start to show signs of improvement after this time frame, you should definitely take your pet into the veterinarian for a check up to ensure that they are not becoming malnourished or dehydrated due to their grief and separation anxiety.