How much does a vet check up cost?
Pet healthcare costs can add up to $30,000 over your pet’s lifetime, according to pet insurance provider PetSure. While the exact cost of treatment depends on your pet’s age, breed, and health, the 2025 PetSure Pet Health Monitor highlights the most common health issues and the average expenses pet owners might face.
Top 3 health issues in dogs (by age group)
Under 1 year
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Condition | Average cost | Maximum cost |
---|---|---|
Gastrointestinal conditions | $694 | $18,012 |
Ear infections | $330 | $5,998 |
Skin infections/ | $324 | $10,670 |
Age 1–8 years
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Condition | Average cost | Maximum cost |
---|---|---|
Skin infections/ | $657 | $21,209 |
Ear infections | $444 | $20,665 |
Gastrointestinal conditions | $872 | $37,599 |
Age 8+ years
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Condition | Average cost | Maximum cost |
---|---|---|
Osteoarthritis | $831 | $21,936 |
Skin infection/ allergies | $699 | $15,465 |
Mass lesions (lumps/bumps) | $1,087 | $31,195 |
Top 3 health issues in cats (by age group)
Under 1 year
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Condition | Average cost | Maximum cost |
---|---|---|
Gastrointestinal conditions | $703 | $13,918 |
Eye conditions | $313 | $3,874 |
Ear infections | $337 | $4,736 |
Age 1–8 years
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Condition | Average cost | Maximum cost |
---|---|---|
Gastrointestinal | $884 | $26,987 |
Urinary tract | $1,519 | $33,270 |
Eye conditions | $397 | $19,760 |
Age 8+ years
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Condition | Average cost | Maximum cost |
---|---|---|
Gastrointestinal | $1,017 | $22,515 |
Urinary tract | $1,350 | $22,945 |
Dental | $1,068 | $5,258 |
Top 5 dog health conditions (all ages, 2024)
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Condition | Average cost | Maximum cost |
---|---|---|
Skin infections/ allergies | $667 | $21,209 |
Gastrointestinal conditions | $874 | $37,599 |
Ear infections | $439 | $22,665 |
Wounds | $836 | $46,525 |
Mass lesions (lumps/bumps) | $961 | $31,195 |
Top 5 cat health conditions (all ages, 2024)
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Condition | Average cost | Maximum cost |
---|---|---|
Gastrointestinal | $903 | $26,987 |
Urinary | $1,459 | $38,769 |
Skin infections/ | $470 | 21,343 |
Fight/ bite wounds | $620 | $24,529 |
Eye conditions | $424 | $20,106 |
Note: This data is based on 2024 PetSure claims as of February 2025 and reflects the amount claimed per policy over a 12-month period. Actual costs can vary depending on your pet’s breed, age, health condition, location, and the specific treatment needed.
How to prepare for ongoing vet expenses
A little bit of planning can help you avoid the financial stress of an unexpected vet bill. These tips could help:
- Try setting aside a little money each month in an emergency fund, just for your pet.
- Focus on preventive treatment. Ensure regular vet check-ups, timely vaccinations and worm and flea treatments.
- Breed-appropriate diet and exercise can lower the risk of obesity and long-term health issues.
- If your pet needs treatment, you could ask a few vets for quotes. You might find lower prices, alternative treatment plans, or payment plans that work better for you.
- Pet insurance can help with unexpected vet bills. You can compare insurance quotes on Canstar to find cover that suits your needs and budget.