Anyone who has lived with cats long enough knows that they form deep bonds, not only with their human family, but with other animals in the household. When a companion dies, many cats go through a period of mourning that can look remarkably similar to human grief. This is not anthropomorphism. The evidence is there if you know what to look for.
In 1996, the ASPCA conducted a survey of 160 households that had recently lost a pet in a multi-pet home. The results showed clear behavioral changes in the surviving animals. Among surviving cats, 46 percent ate less than usual following the loss, and some stopped eating entirely for several days. Over 70 percent showed a noticeable change in vocalization patterns, with some cats becoming much more vocal and others going quiet. More than half of the surviving cats slept more than usual, and many changed where they slept, often moving to spots favored by the deceased companion.
From my own experience and the many letters our readers have shared, the most common signs of feline grief include decreased appetite, increased sleeping and lethargy, searching behavior where the cat wanders the house looking in the deceased companion's favorite spots, increased vocalization or mournful calling especially at night, clinginess with their human family, and withdrawal from normal activities. Some cats also show changes in litter box habits during a grieving period. These behaviors typically last two to six months, though some cats adjust within a few weeks.
The most important thing you can do is maintain your cat's normal routine. Feed at the same times, keep the environment stable, and resist the urge to immediately bring home a new companion. Your surviving cat needs time to adjust, and introducing a stranger during a vulnerable period can increase stress rather than reduce it. Offer gentle attention without forcing it. Some cats want more lap time during grief, while others prefer to be left alone. Follow your cat's lead. If your cat has not eaten for more than two days, contact your veterinarian. Prolonged fasting can trigger hepatic lipidosis, a serious liver condition, in cats.