Pets are sensitive, have and express emotions such as joy, sadness, fear and anger. An animal that is going through a difficult period of mourning after the death of its owner or close relative can use some support.
It is important that you understand your pet’s grieving process to help them through that painful period. Most animals show changes in their behavior: they constantly look for their missing owner or friend, their sleeping pattern changes, as does their appetite. Some seek more attention and affection, others isolate themselves. They feel less like frolicking, or they start shouting louder than before.
Increased anxiety and stress can also weaken their immunity, causing new diseases to emerge or existing complaints to worsen. We do not know exactly how this works, but the stronger the relationship and understanding with the deceased owner or friend, the more they visibly suffer.
The period of mourning can vary and some animals suffer more from it than others, causing them to fall into depression. It seems that your pet mainly feels the effective absence, rather than death. Animals live in the present, so emotional changes, the loss of daily rituals and changes in the composition of their ‘family’ certainly have a painful impact.
How can you help your pet overcome this loss? Your loyal housemate has great resilience. We know that trauma can lead to an increase in oxytocin, a hormone that encourages the search and forging of new emotional bonds. It is therefore important that you offer your animal new rituals: a walk, tasty food, something to chew on, play with and cuddle, but also moments of peace and tranquility. Certain nutritional supplements can help. It is also better not to take another animal into your home before this mourning period is over. So a lot of patience and love are definitely needed.
2023-11-29 16:56:15
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