Animal empathy? Research suggests that many animals empathize just like we do—or at least sort of like we do.
The basis for animal empathy is mirror neurons, which were actually first detected in monkeys rather than humans. Researchers observed that the monkeys’ brains were activated in the same way whether they were grasping an object or watching another monkey grasp an object. That is the magic of mirror neurons and empathy: whether we do it or see it, our brain responds the same.
Other animals share emotions as well. Horses, for example, are herd animals and by nature, they experience emotional contagion. If one is startled, the others will startle too. Studies also show that horses recognize familiar faces and voices, and even with unfamiliar people or even photos, they recognize whether someone is smiling or angry.
Even crows can recognize a familiar face and sometimes, hold a grudge against those they perceive as a threat. Crows may warn other crows of the threat and in some cases, dive bomb or mob someone who threatened them in the past. Studies show that crows remember a threatening face for years and can even teach others to hold the same grudge.
Certainly, dogs and cats can empathize, but I think, speaking personally, my dog is more interested in getting a treat or sleeping than how I feel about things. He actually smiles when he’s happy, though he doesn’t necessarily smile because I do. On the other hand, when he smiles, I always smile. It makes me happy to see him happy, so perhaps, I can say that he helps me practice empathy. I’m grateful for my dog regardless of his empathetic abilities and wouldn’t give him up for the world.
This post is part of my Gratitude Project 2025: The Magic of Empathy — a 30-day exploration of empathy and gratitude. Visit the hub to follow along or catch up on past reflections.
If you’d like to explore the science behind gratitude, visit the Greater Good Science Center’s Gratitude Resources.
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