canstar
canstar
Credit Score

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

Fact Checked
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

← Mobile/tablet users, scroll sideways to view full table →

ConditionAverage costMaximum cost
Gastrointestinal conditions$694$18,012
Ear infections$330$5,998
Skin infections/$324$10,670

Age 1–8 years

← Mobile/tablet users, scroll sideways to view full table →

ConditionAverage costMaximum cost
Skin infections/$657$21,209
Ear infections$444$20,665
Gastrointestinal
conditions
$872$37,599

Age 8+ years

← Mobile/tablet users, scroll sideways to view full table →

ConditionAverage costMaximum 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

← Mobile/tablet users, scroll sideways to view full table →

ConditionAverage costMaximum cost
Gastrointestinal
conditions
$703$13,918
Eye conditions$313$3,874
Ear infections$337$4,736

Age 1–8 years

← Mobile/tablet users, scroll sideways to view full table →

ConditionAverage costMaximum cost
Gastrointestinal$884$26,987
Urinary tract$1,519$33,270
Eye conditions$397$19,760

Age 8+ years

← Mobile/tablet users, scroll sideways to view full table →

ConditionAverage costMaximum 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)

← Mobile/tablet users, scroll sideways to view full table →

ConditionAverage costMaximum 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)

← Mobile/tablet users, scroll sideways to view full table →

ConditionAverage costMaximum cost
Gastrointestinal$903$26,987
Urinary$1,459$38,769
Skin infections/$47021,343
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.
Vidhu Bajaj's profile picture
Vidhu BajajContent Producer

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.