Helping a Grieving Cat After a Pet Dies: Signs and Support
When a household pet dies, the people in the home grieve, and the animals often seem to as well. Cats may call out, search, sleep more or stop eating. Scientists cannot say for certain whether cats understand death, but they clearly notice absence and change. This guide offers ways to support a cat through the loss.
What cats may show
After a companion dies, cats may:
- Search the house, or wait by the door.
- Meow or yowl more, especially at night.
- Eat less, or stop eating.
- Sleep more, or become restless.
- Become clingy, or withdraw.
- Groom less, or overgroom. See why do cats overgroom.
- Change litter box habits. See why is my cat peeing outside the litter box.
- Lose interest in play.
A survey of owners found that most reported changes in surviving pets, though the cause may be a mix of grief, stress and changes in the owners' behavior. Cats pick up on your mood.
Rule out illness
Behavior changes may also signal health problems. If the cat was in the same home as the cat that died, and the cause was infectious, ask your vet about risk. A cat that does not eat for more than a day should be seen. See hepatic lipidosis in cats and cat emergency warning signs.
Keep routines
Cats like predictability. Keep feeding, play and bedtime at the same times. Do not rearrange the home or remove the other cat's belongings immediately, unless the sight upsets you. Keep the cat's favorite resting spots. If you plan changes, introduce them gradually.
Offer comfort
- Give extra attention, but do not force it. Sit quietly, and let the cat approach.
- Play sessions can lift mood. See exercise for indoor cats.
- Offer puzzle feeders and new toys. See puzzle feeders and slow feeders for cats.
- Provide warm, cozy beds. See how to choose a cat bed.
- Use calming pheromone diffusers if you wish, and ask your vet about their value.
- Spend time at home, if possible, in the first days.
Appetite
Tempt a reluctant eater with warm wet food, or a favorite treat. Offer small meals often. If appetite does not return within a day or two, call your vet. Cats that stop eating can develop liver disease. See how to switch cat foods for diet changes if needed.
Should the cat see the body?
Some owners let surviving pets see or smell the body, believing it helps them understand. Evidence is limited, and the decision is personal. If you do, keep it calm, supervised and brief. Your cat may sniff, then walk away. Others may not need it. Do not force.
Cats that lived closely together
If the cats were bonded, grooming and sleeping together, the surviving cat may be more affected. A cat that depended on the other for confidence may become anxious. See cat separation anxiety. Provide extra security, such as hiding spots and perches. See setting up a multi-cat home.
Cats that did not get along
If the cats were rivals, the survivor may seem relieved, or unsettled by the change. Watch for changes anyway.
Dogs and other pets
Other animals in the home may also react. Keep their routines steady and give attention.
Adopting another pet
Wait until you and the cat have adjusted, and until you feel ready. Do not use a new pet as a quick fix. Introduce gradually. See how to introduce a new cat to your cat and rescue cat first week. Some cats like company, and others prefer being the only cat.
Looking after yourself
Your grief matters too. Cats sense your mood, so caring for yourself helps them. Reach out to friends, support groups or counseling. See cat quality of life and saying goodbye.
What the research says
Studies of owners suggest that many surviving pets change their behavior after a companion dies, such as eating less, seeking more attention, or vocalizing more. Researchers caution that cats may be responding to the change in routine and to their owners' emotions, not to death itself. Whatever the reason, the cat's distress is real, and it deserves care. Most cats recover within weeks. Keep notes on appetite and behavior, and share them with your vet if concerns persist. A steady, loving household remains the best medicine.
When to see a vet
If your cat stops eating, vomits, hides for days or seems depressed for more than two weeks, see a vet. Use the US vet directory to find a clinic.
Frequently asked questions
Do cats grieve?
Many show behavior changes after losing a companion, even if we cannot know what they feel.
How long does cat grief last?
Often days to a few weeks, but some cats take longer.
Should I let my cat see the body?
Some owners find it helpful, though evidence is limited, and it is a personal choice.
Should I get a new cat right away?
Usually it is better to wait until you and your cat have adjusted.
Sources and further reading
We link to recognised organizations so you can check the basics for yourself. We have no commercial relationship with any site listed here.
- American Veterinary Medical Association: pet owner resourcesPolicy-level guidance from the national veterinary association.
- Fear Free PetsLow-stress handling and care for dogs and cats.
- International Cat CareVeterinary-reviewed advice on feline health, behavior and welfare.
Tailwisp is independent and written under our editorial policy. Learn who we are, or browse all cat guides.