What vet fees does my pet insurance cover?

When buying pet insurance, it’s important to understand what it does and doesn’t cover. While you’ll typically be able to claim for some vet fees on your pet insurance, some costs will need to come out of your own pocket. Find out what is and isn’t likely to be covered with our guide.   

Kelly Whybrow Content Writer
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How much do vet appointments cost?

A vet appointment can cost around £60, which typically covers a consultation and diagnosis. However, if your pet needs a specific treatment, the costs are likely to be higher. For example:

 

Fees associated with going to the vetsAverage price
Surgery and hospitalisation £1,500
Overnight stays at a treatment facility £150
Dental treatment  £300
X-rays £300
MRI scans  £1000
Blood and other routine tests £100-130
Having your pet put down and cremated £80-200
Spaying and neutering £40-200

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What vet fees are not usually covered by pet insurance?

It’s unlikely that your pet insurance policy will cover the costs of:

  • pre-existing medical conditions
  • vaccinations
  • routine check-ups and treatments, eg flea, worm and tick treatments and claw clipping
  • neutering
  • microchipping
  • dental treatment
  • alternative therapies unless recommended by a vet
  • breeding complications
  • pregnancy complications

Always check the details of your policy, so you know exactly what your pet is insured for.

What vet fees are not usually covered by pet insurance?

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What should I think about before getting pet insurance?

It’s important to consider:

  • The cost of insuring your pet: The more comprehensive your cover, the more it’s likely to cost. However, the less your policy covers, the more you might have to pay in vet bills if something happens to your pet.
  • Getting the right policy: It’s very important to get the right cover for you and your pet. Pet insurance can vary, so think about how you would deal with an unexpected bill.
  • The level of excess: This is the amount of any claim you need to settle out of your own pocket. Typically the higher your excess, the lower your premium, but make sure you can afford to pay any excess you agree to.
  • Maximum amount of cover: Make sure you know the maximum amount of cover your policy provides towards vets’ fees.
  • Risks with your pet: An older pet can cost more to insure and has a higher chance of needing medical attention. Some pedigree dogs and pedigree cats can be more susceptible to hereditary conditions and on-going illnesses that may not be included in your cover.

Find out about the different types of pet insurance

What should I think about before getting pet insurance?
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James Martin

Content Writer

comparethemarket.com

“The increase in pet insurance claims reflects the increasing costs in vet bills and range of treatments available.

The average pet insurance claim costs £750 according to the Association of British Insurers (ABI), with consultation fees starting at typically £35.

Owners of dogs are twice as likely to insure their pet, than owners of cats. Just 16% of the cat owners in the UK are thought to have pet insurance. However, the average cost of treating a cat with diabetes is £1,060.

It’s worthwhile checking affordable premiums to prevent being caught out by unexpected vet fees.”

What pet insurance options are available?

There are four main types of pet insurance. See the differences between the pet insurance cover options. 

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