When a horse loses a field companion, it can turn their whole world upside down. That loss doesn't always mean a companion has died. A horse might suddenly be alone because their field mate has been sold, moved to another yard, changed fields, or can no longer be kept with them. Whatever the reason, a change in their social group can be unsettling. Research suggests many horses show changes in behaviour after losing a companion, from calling and pacing to becoming unsettled or harder to handle. The kindest things you can do are keep their routine steady, make sure they can see and be near other horses, and give them time.
Do horses grieve when they lose a companion?
Yes, many horses appear to grieve when they lose a companion. A study from the University of Lincoln, looking at 325 horses whose companion had died, found most showed changes in behaviour afterwards. Around two in three called out more or moved around more, and more than half seemed more on edge (Horse & Hound, reporting University of Lincoln research).
The same research suggested that horses who were able to spend some time with their companion's body tended to settle more quickly. It may help them understand that their friend isn't coming back. But that isn't always possible, particularly if the loss happened at a vet hospital or suddenly. This research specifically looked at horses whose companions had died, but a horse can also become unsettled when a familiar companion disappears for other reasons. A field mate moving yards, being sold, changing fields or no longer being able to share turnout can all mean a horse suddenly has to adjust to a very different social environment.
Horses are herd animals. For them, a companion isn't just a friend; it's safety. So when that friend disappears, it makes sense that they feel exposed and unsure.
How can I tell if my horse is struggling?
A horse who is struggling after a loss may call out, pace, sweat, go off their food, seem withdrawn, or become restless and harder to handle. Some become clingy with people; others seem flat and quiet. Changes can last for weeks or even months. If your horse stops eating, loses weight or seems unwell, speak to your vet.
Every horse copes differently. Some seem to shrug it off in a few days, while others take much longer. You know your horse better than anyone, so trust your instincts. Keeping a few notes on how they're eating, sleeping and behaving can help you see whether things are slowly getting better.
It's also worth remembering that a stressed horse can be unpredictable. Take a little extra care when handling, leading and riding in the first few weeks, and let others on the yard know your horse may not be their usual self.
How can I help my horse settle on their own?
To help a horse settle after losing a companion, keep their routine as familiar as possible, make sure they can see and ideally touch other horses, and keep forage available so they always have something to do. Small, steady comforts matter far more than big changes. Give it time, and don't expect things to be back to normal overnight.
Routine is a real comfort to a worried horse. Try to keep feed times, turnout and exercise as close to normal as you can. If possible, avoid adding lots of other changes at the same time, such as moving to a new field or changing their feed.
Company, in whatever form you can find it, is the next priority. That might mean turning out next to other horses over a fence, moving to a stable with a view of the yard, or asking a neighbour if your horse can share a field for a while. Bringing them in and turning them out alongside other horses, where possible, can also help. World Horse Welfare highlights friends, forage and freedom as the foundations of a happy horse, and all three matter even more at a time like this (World Horse Welfare).
If your horse is spending more time alone, try to keep them connected to other horses where possible. A stable where they can see their neighbours, a slow feeder to keep them occupied, and some time in hand grazing or a quiet walk can all provide gentle stimulation and reassurance.
Some owners also find that natural calming support helps their horse through this kind of stressful period, alongside all of the above. It's never a replacement for company and care, but it can be one gentle piece of the picture. We explore how stress, behaviour and the gut are connected in our guide to how gut health links to behaviour in anxious horses.
How do I introduce a new companion?
Introduce a new companion slowly and safely. Start with the horses in neighbouring paddocks or stables so they can see and sniff each other over a safe barrier. Once they're relaxed together, try short, supervised turnouts in a large, safe space, and build up from there. Rushing introductions can lead to injuries and more stress.
There's no right time to bring in a new friend. For some horses, a new companion within days is the best option. For others, and for some owners, it takes longer. If you're not ready to take on another horse, a companion pony on loan or sharing turnout with a neighbour's horse might be a good halfway step.
Keep an eye on both horses in the first few weeks. Squeals and a bit of posturing are normal as they work out their relationship, but persistent kicking or chasing means it's time to slow things down.
Can a horse live alone?
Horses are social animals and are happiest with other horses. Keeping a horse completely alone should be avoided if at all possible. If it can't be helped for a while, make sure your horse can see other horses, spend plenty of time with them yourself, and look for a longer-term companion when you can.
Some people use other animals, like sheep, goats or donkeys, as company. A donkey can be a lovely friend for some horses, though donkeys have their own needs and ideally need company of their own kind too. Whatever you decide, do your research first so every animal is happy.
Helping your horse find their feet again
With time, routine and company, most horses do find their feet again after a change in their social group. If you'd like to explore gentle, natural support for this time, you'll find our range of natural horse calming supplements here.
FAQ
How long do horses grieve?
It varies from horse to horse and can depend on the circumstances of the separation. Some settle within a few days, while others show changes for weeks or months. Keep routines steady, provide company and speak to your vet if you're worried about how your horse is coping.
Should I let my horse see their companion's body?
Research suggests that spending a short time with their companion's body may help some horses settle. It's not always possible, and you shouldn't feel guilty if it wasn't. If you're able to plan ahead, talk it through with your vet.
References
- Horse & Hound. New research to help owners understand grief in horses (University of Lincoln and San Marco Veterinary Clinic).
- World Horse Welfare. The 3Fs: friends, forage and freedom.
About the author
Alexandra Frazer, Founder of EquiNutritive, BSc Equine Science. Alexandra is the equine scientist behind EquiNutritive's natural, science-backed nutrition for horses.