KEY POINTS
- Pet healthcare costs have surged 34% since 2020, with total lifetime expenses reaching around $30,000 per pet.
- According to 2024 claims data from PetSure, gastrointestinal conditions and wounds in dogs can cost up to $46,525 per year to treat.
- In cats, urinary tract disorders are among the most expensive, with annual treatment costs reaching $38,769.
How much does a vet check up cost?
From routine vet visits to emergency care, pet healthcare can cost around $30,000 over your pet’s lifetime, according to pet insurance provider PetSure. With vet costs rising 34% since 2020, planning ahead could help you manage these expenses more easily.
While the exact cost of treatment depends on your pet’s age, breed, and health, the 2025 PetSure Pet Health Monitor reveals the most common health issues—and the average expenses pet owners can expect.
Top 3 health issues in dogs (by age group)
Under 1 year
- Gastrointestinal conditions: Average cost $694 | Maximum cost $18,012
- Ear infections: Average cost $330 | Maximum cost $5,998
- Skin infections/allergies: Average cost $324 | Maximum cost $10,670
Age 1–8 years
- Skin infections/allergies: Average cost $657 | Maximum cost $21,209
- Ear infections: Average cost $444 | Maximum cost $20,655
- Gastrointestinal conditions: Average cost $872 | Maximum cost $37,599
Age 8+ years
- Osteoarthritis: Average cost $831 | Maximum cost $21,936
- Skin infections/allergies: Average cost $699 | Maximum cost $15,465
- Mass lesions (lumps & bumps): Average cost $1,087 | Maximum cost $31,195
Top 3 health issues in cats (by age group)
Under 1 year
- Gastrointestinal conditions: Average cost $703 | Maximum cost $13,918
- Eye conditions: Average cost $313 | Maximum cost $3,874
- Ear infections: Average cost $337 | Maximum cost $4,736
Age 1–8 years
- Gastrointestinal conditions: Average cost $884 | Maximum cost $26,987
- Urinary tract disorders: Average cost $1,519 | Maximum cost $33,270
- Eye conditions: Average cost $397 | Maximum cost $19,760
Age 8+ years
- Gastrointestinal conditions: Average cost $1,017 | Maximum cost $22,515
- Urinary tract disorders: Average cost $1,350 | Maximum cost $22,945
- Dental conditions: Average cost $1,068 | Maximum cost $5,258
Top 5 dog health conditions (all ages, 2024)
- Skin infections/allergies: Average cost $667 | Maximum cost $21,209
- Gastrointestinal conditions: Average cost $874 | Maximum cost $37,599
- Ear infections: Average cost $439 | Maximum cost $22,665
- Wounds (trauma, bite/fight): Average cost $836 | Maximum cost $46,525
- Mass lesions (lumps/bumps): Average cost $961 | Maximum cost $31,195
Top 5 cat health conditions (all ages, 2024)
- Gastrointestinal conditions: Average cost $903 | Maximum cost $26,987
- Urinary tract disorders: Average cost $1,459 | Maximum cost $38,769
- Skin infections/allergies: Average cost $470 | Maximum cost $21,343
- Fight/bite wounds: Average cost $620 | Maximum cost $24,529
- Eye conditions: Average cost $424 | Maximum cost $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.
Do you need pet insurance?
With the rising cost of living, vet bills are becoming a major source of stress for many pet owners. A recent Petsure study shows that $3,000 is a key tipping point—beyond this, some owners may consider economic euthanasia, a heartbreaking choice no one wants to face. Even routine treatments like dental cleanings or minor surgeries can cost thousands, sometimes reaching $5,000 or more.
Pets are family, and no one should have to endure this kind of financial pressure or emotional stress. Pet insurance can offer a way to manage these costs and reduce worry.
- Accident & Illness
- Tick paralysis & skin conditions
- Benefit waiting periods may apply
Read the PDS & check suitability.
- Accident, Illness & Routine Care
- Tick paralysis & skin conditions
- Benefit waiting periods may apply
Read the PDS & check suitability.
- Accident & Illness
- Tick paralysis & skin conditions
- Benefit waiting periods may apply
Read the PDS & check suitability.
- Accident & Illness
- Tick paralysis & skin conditions
- Benefit waiting periods may apply
Read the PDS & check suitability.
- Accident & Illness
- Tick paralysis & skin conditions
- Benefit waiting periods may apply
Read the PDS & check suitability.
When exploring pet insurance options, it’s important to consider a few key factors. Premiums vary based on your pet’s breed, age, and health status. For example, some breeds tend to have higher vet costs and insurance premiums. You can also adjust your policy excess, the amount you agree to pay out of pocket when making a claim. Increasing the excess can help lower your regular premium, but it also means you’ll pay more out-of-pocket costs if your pet needs treatment.
If you’re considering pet insurance or want to explore your options, Canstar’s 2025 Pet Insurance Awards can be a helpful starting point. The awards highlight insurers recognised for delivering strong value and service to customers.
You can also use Canstar’s comparison tables to review a range of pet insurance policies side by side. When comparing policies, it’s important to check what’s covered, as well as any limits and sublimits—the maximum amounts a policy will pay for certain treatments or conditions.
Some insurers may exclude pre-existing conditions or have age-related restrictions, especially for older pets. Reviewing these details upfront can help you avoid surprises down the track. Always read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) and Target Market Determination (TMD) documents carefully so you fully understand the coverage, exclusions, and your responsibilities.
If pet insurance fits your needs, it can potentially offer peace of mind in difficult times—helping you focus on enjoying time with your furry friend instead of stressing about unexpected vet bills.