My cat's sad after chinchilla died. Why the behavior change?

Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Lilith. I agree that two months is a bit for grief, especially if they were not bonded. I see that she is an older girl, and so the first thing to do is take her into a vet for a health check. Even though she appears healthy, a sudden change in behavior can be the first sign of an illness. So have her seen by a vet in the next few days. I would also get a Sentry calming collar and a Feliway diffuser. Both release calming pheromones, and that may help with her behavior. While at the vet, if she checks out healthy, the vet can discuss other strategies to deal with this. I hope this helps!

It's possible Ginger is responding due to the changes in the household. To help her cope, keep her on a routine, set aside 30 minutes a day for playtime and give her lots of attention. Monitor her closely for any signs of illness and have her examined if needed. Most cats will get back to normal within a few weeks. I hope this helps and please feel free to post any additional questions.

Hi there. Sorry to hear of the passing of your kitty. Animals may bond very closely with each other, much as we do. That said, some do not truly express any "missing" of a constant companion. Each of these cases is individual. It is likely your cat will miss his brother and realize he is gone, but our animals are extremely adaptable to their surroundings. Given time, the will usually eventually return to what you consider normal behavior. I hope this helps

He is likely missing his buddy. If he saw his dead friend when he was dead, he would normally truck on and not be upset for long. Give it time, give him lots of loving, eventually his grief will stop. Play with both of them at the same time, it may help.

I am so very sorry that you lost your husband. Yes, cats do morn, just like people. Your cat may be looking for your husband for weeks, and will miss him, especially if it was your husband's cat. The only thing you can do is give it extra TLC. Over time the mourning will get less. Sounds weird, but you two have each other and snuggling will help you a bit and your cat as well. Again, I am very sorry for your loss.

That is awful, I'm so very sorry for your loss! Yes, cats can grieve the loss of a companion, and that may be what is happening with Bitsy. Give her lots of love and extra attention to help her through this time.

I do think our pets grieve, and this can last various lengths of time. All you can do is provide lots of love and affection and with time the grief will improve. New [toys](https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/category/cat/cat-toys) and [treats](https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/category/cat/cat-treats) can help. You can also try a [pheromone product]() that can help cats during periods of adjustment. It is available in a room diffuser or a spray.