The death of a pet is never easy for an owner, but often times we struggle with helping survivor pets with small pet loss. Not only do we form bonds with our small animals, but our other pets do as well. If we are observant, we will notice our pets are grieving too.
Most times, pets deal much better with the death of an animal than people. Instincts guide even the most domesticated of animals, taking them back to what is natural. In a natural habitat, an animal is able to cope with the loss of a fellow animal much easier. The domestication of animals can be a contributing factor to difficulties they may have when another animal has died.
You’ll need to watch your surviving pets for signs that they are grieving. They may be subtle, such as an increase of wandering around their area or a lack of appetite. Other times you’ll notice more severe grieving in your pet such as their wanting to be in the bed of the pet which passed away or a refusal to participate in normal activities. You know your pets best and you will know what problems are when they arise if you pay attention.
If your pets begin to exhibit signs of aggression, they may be in need of additional stimulation from you until they have progressed further through their grieving process. They may be used to spending play time with the deceased animal and might stop playing as a result of their absence. Play is a means by which animals keep their brain and body functions in balance. Changes to their routines for physical activity can produce negative physical effects.
Animals have been known to stop eating altogether when they are coping with the loss of a fellow pet. You might need to get creative if this happens with your surviving pets. Bringing in a special food treat can prompt them to eat if they otherwise have no interest. If you are able to mix it into their regular food, you can boost the nutritive value of the treat and ensure that there is some nutritional benefit for your pets. That way, they are able to sustain normal body function until such time as they are able to regain their normal eating routine. If your pet does not regain a normal eating routine after a couple of weeks and you notice physical differences in your pet such as a loss of fur or feathers, skin issues, weight loss or lethargy, get the animal to a veterinarian at the earliest possible time. There may be a chemical imbalance in the pet which prevents it from progressing through the grieving process.
Be prepared to deal with the death of a pet on many levels. When doing so it is imperative that you not forget that your pets will feel a loss too. Being involved with them more will help you notice problems and is vital to helping survivor pets with small pet loss.
