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Vet Prices: What's the cost of veterinary treatment?

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Vet Prices_What's the cost of veterinary treatment
Source: Atstock Productions/Shutterstock.com

With the rising cost of living and veterinary care, even a routine trip to the vet can feel overwhelming.

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.

Cover image source: Atstock Productions/Shutterstock.com

Nick Whiting's profile picture
Nick WhitingInsurances Writer

Nick is an Insurances Writer at Canstar, providing assistance to Canstar's Editorial Finance Team in its mission to empower consumers to take control of their finances. He has written hundreds of articles for Canstar across all key finance topics. Coming from a screenwriting background, Nick completed a Bachelor of Film, Television and New Media Production from Queensland University of Technology. Nick has also completed RG 146 (Tier 1), making him compliant to provide general advice for general insurance products like car, home, travel and health insurance, as well as giving him knowledge of investment options such as shares, derivatives, futures, managed investments, currencies and commodities.

Nick’s role at Canstar allows him to combine his love of the written word with his interest in finance, having learned the art of share trading from his late grandfather. Nick strives to deliver clear and straightforward content that helps the everyday consumer navigating the world of finance. Nick is also working on a TV series in his spare time. You can connect with Nick on LinkedIn.

Important Information

For those that love the detail

This advice is general and has not taken into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Consider whether this advice is right for you.