What was the cost of veterinary care in 2019?
2. Urinary tract conditions
Many pet parents say they wished they’d signed up for pet insurance before their pet got sick or injured. They simply didn’t know how expensive vet bills could be and weren’t prepared financially.
9. Diabetes
of pet parents have gone into personal debt paying for vet services, with the average debt being
in Billions
$34,830
6. Eye conditions
5.8%
Sorry, the correct answer is: $56,533
These are the top accidents and illnesses that made dogs visit the vet in 2019.**
†
in Billions
14%
4.5%
Just like people, dogs can suffer from a variety of skin conditions, depending on environmental circumstances or genetics. Vets see skin allergies, bacterial infections, insect bites, hot spots, rashes, impetigo, mange, and dermatitis regularly.
5. Skin conditions
Key Takeaways
Pain
$30,847
Chronic kidney disease is a common ailment in older cats. Acute kidney injury is a severe condition with a relatively sudden onset. Mild kidney conditions may be managed with a special diet. Symptoms include increased thirst and urination, decreased appetite and weight loss.
of pet parents have gone into personal debt paying for vet services, with the average debt being
This comes with a corresponding price tag
Total Vet Cost:
- Bone marrow transplants
- Chiropractic care
The correct answer is: All of the above
The correct answer is heart conditions
- Bone marrow transplants
- Chiropractic care
Heart conditions
Many pet parents say they wished they’d signed up for pet insurance before their pet got sick or injured. They simply didn’t know how expensive vet bills could be and weren’t prepared financially.
Sorry, incorrect.
Tap each condition to see more
Vet cost: Up to $18,027*
Cancer
skin conditions
4. Heart conditions
Vet cost: Up to $11,643*
8.4%
2018
6.5%
Heart issues in cats can include heart disease, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, complications from blood clots, heart valve issues, and heart murmur. There is no cure for heart failure but most heart conditions can be managed with medication.
40%
Prince
4. Heart Conditions
Pain usually indicates an underlying condition or can be caused by aging and arthritis. Past trauma, genetic conditions, and even accidents can lead to a pet experiencing pain. If your dog appears to be in pain, get them to the vet immediately.
+
2016
Heart conditions
2. Urinary tract conditions
+
Answers in our Cost of Pet Health Care Report 2019
Ear infections
+
Total Vet Cost:
ear infections
+
Customer story: Checkers was straining to pass urine and his bladder was the size of a lemon. Checkers required emergency surgery to remove a blockage in his urinary tract. Cost: $2,325.
Ear infections are uncomfortable and sometimes painful, and they can also be a symptom of a more significant health issue. If left untreated, ear infections can lead to hearing loss or other health problems. Kittens, if left outside, are prone to ear mites, which are tiny parasites that live inside the ear canal and can cause infection.
Vet cost: Up to $12,954*
As medical care is constantly progressing, so is veterinary care
DOWNLOAD THE FULL REPORT »
A UTI (urinary tract infection) is caused by bacteria in the lower urinary tract. Bladder stones are solid masses made up of mineral and acid salts often because the dog's urine contains too much of certain substances that form the crystals.
$400
Heart issues in cats can include heart disease, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, complications from blood clots, heart valve issues, and heart murmur. There is no cure for heart failure but most heart conditions can be managed with medication.
+
Get your free quote today »
Cancer in cats can take many forms. Common cancers in cats include lymphoma, which is associated with small cell gastrointestinal lymphoma, squamous cell carcinoma (a form of skin cancer), and fibrosarcoma (soft tissue sarcoma). Cancer can be treated with chemotherapy and surgery, which can extend your kitty’s life or eradicate the cancer completely. Cancer is one of the most expensive conditions to treat.
Cats are more prone than dogs to see the vet for urinary tract disease or infections, which have similar symptoms. The majority of afflicted young and middle-aged cats have a condition called idiopathic cystitis, which, unlike stones and infection, does not show up on a test. An infection of the cat’s urethra is most commonly found in young kittens. Urinary Tract Blockages, an obstruction of the urethra, can be serious and life threatening and are most commonly found in male cats.
There are many different reasons why your pup can come down with an ear infection: rashes, allergies, bacterial or yeast infections, even cancer or cysts. Outer ear infections can be painful and annoying, but if they persist to the middle ear, neurological damage and deafness can occur.
Eye conditions can include glaucoma, cataracts, dry eye and cherry eye, as well as abrasions and infection, which can lead to vision loss. A vet should check out all eye conditions immediately to reduce the chance of long-term damage.
Vet cost: Up to $24,402*
Customer story: Jax the cat was found with multiple severe injuries. He suffered a fractured left hip, a broken left ulna and dislocated radius and a right hind leg ligament tear. He underwent three surgeries. The final bill: nearly $18,000.
Diabetes
a year.
Chronic kidney disease is a common ailment in older cats. Acute kidney injury is a severe condition with a relatively sudden onset. Mild kidney conditions may be managed with a special diet. Symptoms include increased thirst and urination, decreased appetite and weight loss.
Sorry, incorrect.
2014
+
of pet parents have gone into personal debt paying for vet services, with the average debt being
2018
The rise in heart conditions in dogs may have a number of causes including more instances of Canine Dilated Cardiomyopathy (CDC), a disease of the heart muscle which some studies attribute to exotic-ingredient and grain-free diets.
Vet cost: Up to $4,138*
Tap each condition to see more
2016
†
†
Customer story: Checkers was straining to pass urine and his bladder was the size of a lemon. Checkers required emergency surgery to remove a blockage in his urinary tract. Cost: $2,325.
Cancer
2018
2012
Tap each image to find out more
All of the above
All of the above
Cats can be afflicted with a myriad of skin conditions, caused by infections, pests or allergies. Most common symptoms are itchiness, dry or flaky skin and over-grooming.
The correct answer is: All of the above
2012
Sorry, incorrect.
Healthy Paws Paid:
Key Takeaways
a year.
Cancer can take several different forms, and symptoms include tumors, weight loss, and soreness, among others. Cancer is one of the most expensive diseases to address and may include treatments such as palliative chemotherapy, tumor removal, medication and special diets.
2018
This can be any protrusion, lump, bump, or foreign growth on your dog’s skin. It could be a benign cyst or lump, or in the worst case, a cancerous tumor that requires removal and other cancer treatment.
Hugo was diagnosed with at least two severe disc herniations affecting the nerves to his back legs. Surgery was successful, but other issues soon emerged. Among the conditions found: congestive heart failure, fluid buildup in the lungs, diabetes and pancreatitis. He also developed a wound infection at the surgical site which needed a second minor surgery. Today, Hugo is walking, running, and playing like before.
Did you know? Cancer is the #1 cause of death in senior pets
Urinary tract conditions
2016
$13,931
What do you think was one of the most expensive vet bills in 2019 for cats?
$400
†
- Knee replacements
- Advanced allergy testing
- Cancer surgeries
- Bone marrow transplants
- Chiropractic care
of pet parents have gone into personal debt paying for vet services, with the average debt being
†
+
growth
31%
2010
Hugo was diagnosed with at least two severe disc herniations affecting the nerves to his back legs. Surgery was successful, but other issues soon emerged. Among the conditions found: congestive heart failure, fluid buildup in the lungs, diabetes and pancreatitis. He also developed a wound infection at the surgical site which needed a second minor surgery. Today, Hugo is walking, running, and playing like before.
Healthy Paws claims made for incidents occurring between January 1, 2019 - December 31, 2019. Reimbursement based on covered treatments using a 90% reimbursement level and a $500 annual deductible
Total Vet Cost:
Procedures once only found in human medicine are now available for dogs and cats:
+
Heart conditions
$30,847
2014
Vet cost: Up to $13,692*
Did you know? Approximately 10 percent of all dogs in the U.S. have heart disease.
+
As medical care is constantly progressing, so is veterinary care
This comes with a corresponding price tag
Key Takeaways
+
Customer story: Australian Shepherd Quigley was diagnosed with aggressive T-cell lymphoma, a type of cancer of the blood. Quigley underwent several rounds of chemo treatment, and continues to thrive years past his original prognosis of six months. Total bill: $14,481.
The cost of veterinary care is increasing
+
The correct answer is: All of the above
Sorry, the correct answer is: $34,830
Healthy Paws Paid:
Vet cost: Up to $4,080*
a year.
Did you know? Veterinarians can now perform a procedure using ultrasound shock waves to break apart kidney stones or bladder stones.
Heart Conditions
Vet cost: Up to $5,815*
6.5%
A CCL injury for a dog (similar to an ACL in people) is a rupture of an important ligament in the knee joint that requires surgery to repair. Dogs with this injury will suddenly appear lame and generally won't put any weight on the injured leg.
$50,630
Procedures once only found in human medicine are now available for dogs and cats:
+
2014
Cats can be afflicted with a myriad of skin conditions, caused by infections, pests or allergies. Most common symptoms are itchiness, dry or flaky skin and over-grooming.
Vet cost: Up to $1,695*
+
2010
Eye conditions
Urinary tract infection
+
3. Cancer
Kidney Conditions
Healthy Paws claims made for incidents occurring between January 1, 2019 - December 31, 2019. Reimbursement based on covered treatments using a 90% reimbursement level and a $500 annual deductible
Vet cost: Up to $9,610*
Cats’ stomach issues can include gastrointestinal disorders, inflammation, food allergies, poisoning, intestinal bacteria or parasites and food allergies.
This comes with a corresponding price tag
Did you know? Disease, parasites, and viruses can be prevented with vaccines.
4.8%
5%
Ear infections are uncomfortable and sometimes painful, and they can also be a symptom of a more significant health issue. If left untreated, ear infections can lead to hearing loss or other health problems. Kittens, if left outside, are prone to ear mites, which are tiny parasites that live inside the ear canal and can cause infection.
Heart conditions
26%
Vet cost: Up to $7,606*
6.8%
8. Kidney conditions
Healthy Paws claims made for incidents occurring between January 1, 2019 - December 31, 2019. Reimbursement based on covered treatments using a 90% reimbursement level and a $500 annual deductible
Stomach Issues
+
By getting pet health insurance for your furry family member, you can be there for them when they need you the most. After all, they’re always there for you.
Eye conditions
Sorry, incorrect.
Cats develop diabetes mellitus, which is the inability to produce enough insulin to balance blood sugar, or glucose levels. Left untreated, it can lead to weight loss, loss of appetite, vomiting, dehydration, severe depression, problems with motor function, coma and even death. Male cats and those who are older or obese are most likely to develop the condition.
Heart Conditions
+
Tap each condition to see more
Vet cost: Up to $3,094*
7. Pain
†
Cancer in cats can take many forms. Common cancers in cats include lymphoma, which is associated with small cell gastrointestinal lymphoma, squamous cell carcinoma (a form of skin cancer), and fibrosarcoma (soft tissue sarcoma). Cancer can be treated with chemotherapy and surgery, which can extend your kitty’s life or eradicate the cancer completely. Cancer is one of the most expensive conditions to treat.
Vet cost: Up to $5,815*
Diabetes, kidney conditions and heart conditions are all new to the list of top 10 ailments for cats. This may be related to increasing rates of obesity or to cats living longer thanks to new, advanced treatment options.
Skin conditions
Vet cost: Up to $12,587*
Cats are more prone than dogs to see the vet for urinary tract disease or infections, which have similar symptoms. The majority of afflicted young and middle-aged cats have a condition called idiopathic cystitis, which, unlike stones and infection, does not show up on a test. An infection of the cat’s urethra is most commonly found in young kittens. Urinary Tract Blockages, an obstruction of the urethra, can be serious and life threatening and are most commonly found in male cats.
DOWNLOAD THE FULL REPORT »
Customer story: Jax the cat was found with multiple severe injuries. He suffered a fractured left hip, a broken left ulna and dislocated radius and a right hind leg ligament tear. He underwent three surgeries. The final bill: nearly $18,000.
9. Diabetes
Did you know? Cancer is the #1 cause of death in senior pets.
Did you know? Cats can get skin cancer, especially those with lighter fur.
5. Skin conditions
Did you know? Veterinarians can now perform a procedure using ultrasound shock waves to break apart kidney stones or bladder stones.
Did you know? You should look lovingly into your cat’s eyes frequently so you know what is normal and if there are any changes to the condition of your cat's eyes.
+
Eye conditions affecting cats can include conjunctivitis, corneal ulcers, uveitis and retinal damage. A veterinarian should check out all eye conditions immediately to reduce the chance of long-term damage. Treatment can range from eye drops to surgery.
+
17%
10. Ear infections
Urinary tract conditions
Vet cost: Up to $24,402*
DOWNLOAD THE FULL REPORT »
Heart issues in dogs can include heart murmur, heartworm, heart disease, enlargement of the heart, a thickening of the heart muscle, chronic valve disease, and congestive heart failure (CHF), which is end-stage heart disease. A veterinarian diagnosis and echocardiogram are needed to detect heart problems as the symptoms are not easy to identify.
Customer story: Hugo the cat, was recovering from spinal disc surgery when it was discovered he had congestive heart failure, among several other conditions, all treatable. The final vet bill; $34,830.
4.8%
Vet cost: Up to $4,080*
Vet cost: Up to $14,737*
1. Stomach issues
14%
+
10. Ear infections
2010
Ear infections
10%
Cancer
7.7%
14%
Pain usually indicates an underlying condition or can be caused by aging and arthritis. Past trauma, genetic conditions, and even accidents can lead to a pet experiencing pain. If your cat appears to be in pain, get them to the vet immediately.
Total Vet Cost:
$34,830
Diabetes, kidney conditions and heart conditions are all new to the list of top 10 ailments for cats. This may be related to increasing rates of obesity or to cats living longer thanks to new, advanced treatment options.
7. Pain
2010
$56,533
14%
Many pet parents say they wished they’d signed up for pet insurance before their pet got sick or injured. They simply didn’t know how expensive vet bills could be and weren’t prepared financially.
$400
Prince
40%
Customer story: Charlie the Dachshund was diagnosed with intervertebral disc disease which required surgery, weeks of therapy and ongoing maintenance for two years, but he is almost fully recovered. The vet bill totaled $12,085.
$22,567
in Billions
40%
Healthy Paws Paid:
Correct !
Pick a pet
+
in Billions
skin Conditions
By getting pet health insurance for your furry family member, you can be there for them when they need you the most. After all, they’re always there for you.
Sorry, the correct answer is: $34,830
Did you know? Many lumps are harmless; they may be fatty deposits, cysts or warts, but best to get them checked out.
+
14%
$34,830
Heart conditions
2012
Top 10 Conditions in Cats
Correct !
Vet cost: Up to $29,086*
Prince
What do you think was one of
the most expensive vet bills in 2019 for dogs?
+
Prince, a 7-year-old gentle Pitbull Terrier, suffered acute kidney (renal) failure, resulting in a full month hospital stay. He required dialysis and treatment to fight an infection that was discovered during his stay. He’s now doing great with a prescription kidney diet and medication to manage the infection.
By getting pet health insurance for your furry family member, you can be there for them when they need you the most. After all, they’re always there for you.
†
+
† Sources: The American Pet Products Association (APPA), American Veterinary Medical Association, LendEdu, NAPHIA State of the industry 2019 presentation, the Federal Reserve and Today’s Veterinary Business.
*The costs are based on the highest covered claim for the issue filed between January 1, 2019 and December 31, 2019.
**Based on Healthy Paws Pet Insurance claims data between January 1, 2019 – December 31, 2019
The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical diagnosis, condition, or treatment options.
For full coverage details and exclusions see a sample policy.
The claim scenarios described here are intended to show the types of situations that may result in claims. These scenarios should not be compared to any other claim. Whether or to what extent a particular loss is covered depends on the facts and circumstances of the loss, the terms and conditions of the policy as issued and applicable law.
Insureds providing testimonials in this report have not received compensation for their statements.
Plan coverage varies based on the age of the pet at enrollment and the deductible and reimbursement levels chosen at enrollment. Exclusions and restrictions apply. All descriptions or highlights of the insurance being provided are for general information purposes only, do not address state-specific notice or other requirements and do not amend, alter or modify the actual terms or conditions of an insurance policy. Please refer to the terms and conditions of the policy, which set forth the scope of insurance being provided and address relevant state requirements.
Healthy Paws Pet Insurance & Foundation is the brand name for the program operations of Healthy Paws Pet Insurance LLC. Healthy Paws Pet Insurance, LLC is a licensed producer in all states (TX license # 1636108); operating in California as Healthy Paws Pet Insurance Services, LLC (CA license # 0H16053), and in New York, Healthy Paws Pet Insurance Agency, LLC.
Policies are underwritten and issued by the following members of the Chubb Group: ACE American Insurance Company, Indemnity Insurance Company of North America, ACE Property & Casualty Insurance Company, Westchester Fire Insurance Company (all domiciled in Pennsylvania, at Philadelphia, PA) and Atlantic Employers Insurance Company (domiciled in New Jersey, at Jersey City, NJ).
$400
All of the above
2012
Did you know? Diabetes cannot be cured, but it can be controlled with diet and insulin.
This comes with a corresponding price tag
Healthy Paws Paid:
+
†
Did you know? Either an odor in the ear or an ear that is hot to the touch may be signs of infection.
6. Eye conditions
Why pet parents went to the veterinarian and what it cost
Diabetes
1. Stomach issues
Diabetes
Total Vet Cost:
Healthy Paws Paid:
Vet cost: Up to $21,644*
+
a year.
Prince
Healthy Paws claims made for incidents occurring between January 1, 2019 - December 31, 2019. Reimbursement based on covered treatments using a 90% reimbursement level and a $250 annual deductible
Diabetes, kidney conditions and heart conditions are all new to the list of top 10 ailments for cats. This may be related to increasing rates of obesity or to cats living longer thanks to new, advanced treatment options.
Healthy Paws claims made for incidents occurring between January 1, 2019 - December 31, 2019. Reimbursement based on covered treatments using a 90% reimbursement level and a $500 annual deductible
These are the top accidents and illnesses that made dogs visit the vet in 2019.**
Technological innovations are increasing our pets’ quality of life
$20
$18
$16
$14
$12
$10
$8
$6
$4
$2
2014
$13,931
Pets bring us joy, love, and good health, and by making pet health care a priority, we can return the favor.
2016
The cost of veterinary care is increasing
Prince
Cats develop diabetes mellitus, which is the inability to produce enough insulin to balance blood sugar, or glucose levels. Left untreated, it can lead to weight loss, loss of appetite, vomiting, dehydration, severe depression, problems with motor function, coma and even death. Male cats and those who are older or obese are most likely to develop the condition.
Did you know? Disease, parasites, and viruses can be prevented with vaccines.
2017
Pets bring us joy, love, and good health, and by making pet health care a priority, we can return the favor.
$34,830
Get your free quote today »
$56,533
Luckily, more people are choosing pet insurance – new enrollments in the U.S. are growing by an average of
7. Cancer
6. Growths (lumps)
Diabetes, kidney conditions and heart conditions are all new to the list of top 10 ailments for cats. This may be related to increasing rates of obesity or to cats living longer thanks to new, advanced treatment options.
Prince
DOWNLOAD THE FULL REPORT »
Pets bring us joy, love, and good health, and by making pet health care a priority, we can return the favor.
12.5%
2015
$34,830
2011
$22,567
$1,567
2017
Heart conditions
Customer story: Rosie, a Labrador, ate some grapes, which are toxic to dogs. A two-day hospital stay with IV fluids cost $2,713.
Top 10 Conditions in Cats
DOWNLOAD THE FULL REPORT »
2015
$1,567
Get your free quote today »
It’s heart-breaking to imagine turning down crucial treatment for your pet due to finances.
2017
2011
†
Correct !
Correct !
Vet cost: Up to $1,695*
Vet cost: Up to $5,815*
$34,830
Get your free quote today »
17%
Customer story: Nissa slipped one day while jumping in the car, resulting in a diagnosis of a torn CCL. She ultimately underwent three surgeries followed by weeks of rehab. The bill totaled $9,023.
4.8%
The cost of veterinary care is increasing
Eye conditions affecting cats can include conjunctivitis, corneal ulcers, uveitis and retinal damage. A veterinarian should check out all eye conditions immediately to reduce the chance of long-term damage. Treatment can range from eye drops to surgery.
Luckily, more people are choosing pet insurance – new enrollments in the U.S. are growing by an average of
8.1%
Pain usually indicates an underlying condition or can be caused by aging and arthritis. Past trauma, genetic conditions, and even accidents can lead to a pet experiencing pain. If your cat appears to be in pain, get them to the vet immediately.
Kidney Conditions
8. Cranial Cruciate
Ligament – CCL injury
Healthy Paws Paid:
As medical care is constantly progressing, so is veterinary care
Technological innovations are increasing our pets’ quality of life
5%
Did you know? If your cat is shaking or tilting his head or walking in circles, he may have an ear infection.
of Americans don’t have
in savings for an
emergency.
Procedures once only found in human medicine are now available for dogs and cats:
24%
of Americans don’t have
7.2%
Eye conditions
Healthy Paws claims made for incidents occurring between January 1, 2019 - December 31, 2019. Reimbursement based on covered treatments using a 90% reimbursement level and a $500 annual deductible
Did you know? Letting your dog out two to four times a day and providing plenty of water can help prevent infections.
2009
Prince
$30,847
Hugo was diagnosed with at least two severe disc herniations affecting the nerves to his back legs. Surgery was successful, but other issues soon emerged. Among the conditions found: congestive heart failure, fluid buildup in the lungs, diabetes and pancreatitis. He also developed a wound infection at the surgical site which needed a second minor surgery. Today, Hugo is walking, running, and playing like before.
As medical care is constantly progressing, so is veterinary care
10%
There’s one specific condition for dogs that’s on the rise and made the top 10 list for the first time in 2019.
Which do you think it was?
Healthy Paws Paid:
2013
Vet cost: Up to $7,637*
24%
7.7%
Urinary tract conditions
Technological innovations are increasing our pets’ quality of life
Hugo was diagnosed with at least two severe disc herniations affecting the nerves to his back legs. Surgery was successful, but other issues soon emerged. Among the conditions found: congestive heart failure, fluid buildup in the lungs, diabetes and pancreatitis. He also developed a wound infection at the surgical site which needed a second minor surgery. Today, Hugo is walking, running, and playing like before.
- Knee replacements
- Advanced allergy testing
- Cancer surgeries
Correct !
- Knee replacements
- Advanced allergy testing
- Cancer surgeries
Tap each image to find out more
Diabetes, kidney conditions and heart conditions are all new to the list of top 10 ailments for cats. This may be related to increasing rates of obesity or to cats living longer thanks to new, advanced treatment options.
24%
Vet cost: Up to $9,115*
Cruciate ligament
+
Vet cost: Up to $11,643*
$31,928
Cancer in cats can take many forms. Common cancers in cats include lymphoma, which is associated with small cell gastrointestinal lymphoma, squamous cell carcinoma (a form of skin cancer), and fibrosarcoma (soft tissue sarcoma). Cancer can be treated with chemotherapy and surgery, which can extend your kitty’s life or eradicate the cancer completely. Cancer is one of the most expensive conditions to treat.
+
Kidney conditions
8. Kidney conditions
$13,931
$1,567
Tap each image to find out more
Vet cost: Up to $14,737*
24%
$20
$18
$16
$14
$12
$10
$8
$6
$4
$2
Total Vet Cost:
+
Tap each condition to see more
$20
$18
$16
$14
$12
$10
$8
$6
$4
$2
It’s heart-breaking to imagine turning down crucial treatment for your pet due to finances.
+
$50,630
2. Skin conditions
Case study: Hugo the cat, was recovering from spinal disc surgery when it was discovered he had congestive heart failure, among several other conditions, all treatable. The final vet bill; $34,830.
5%
Healthy Paws Paid:
2017
2013
Customer story: Jax the cat was found with multiple severe injuries. He suffered a fractured left hip, a broken left ulna and dislocated radius and a right hind leg ligament tear. He underwent three surgeries. The final bill: nearly $18,000.
Vet cost: Up to $7,606*
26%
By getting pet health insurance for your furry family member, you can be there for them when they need you the most. After all, they’re always there for you.
3. Cancer
Vet cost: Up to $12,587*
4. Ear infections
5. Eye conditions
1. Stomach issues
9. Urinary tract infections
2019
Skin issues
There’s one specific condition
for dogs that’s on the rise and made the top 10 list for the first time in 2019.
Which do you think it was?
Luckily, more people are choosing pet insurance – new enrollments in the U.S. are growing by an average of
8. Kidney conditions
Key Takeaways
The rise in heart conditions in dogs may have a number of causes including more instances of Canine Dilated Cardiomyopathy (CDC), a disease of the heart muscle which some studies attribute to exotic-ingredient and grain-free diets.
of Americans don’t have
+
Customer story: Hugo the cat, was recovering from spinal disc surgery when it was discovered he had congestive heart failure, among several other conditions, all treatable. The final vet bill; $34,830.
Vet cost: Up to $7,606*
3. Pain
4.8%
2015
Urinary tract infection
4.8%
5.2%
Pain
Hugo was diagnosed with at least two severe disc herniations affecting the nerves to his back legs. Surgery was successful, but other issues soon emerged. Among the conditions found: congestive heart failure, fluid buildup in the lungs, diabetes and pancreatitis. He also developed a wound infection at the surgical site which needed a second minor surgery. Today, Hugo is walking, running, and playing like before.
Pain
Cancer
Vet cost: Up to $3,094*
Vet cost: Up to $11,425*
The cost of veterinary care is increasing
Vet cost: Up to $11,643*
2013
Vet cost: Up to $9,610*
Did you know? Pawing at the eye or face are among the symptoms of an eye condition.
$12,487
5.8%
2019
Stomach Issues
†
Stomach Issues
$34,830
Total Vet Cost:
2011
Stomach issues are caused by inflammation, ingesting something dangerous or toxic and by serious illnesses. Keep an eye on what your dog eats; life-threatening emergencies happen when dogs ingest bones, toys, and certain human foods that are toxic to dogs.
Sorry, the correct answer is: $34,830
Kidney conditions
All of the above
Did you know? You should look lovingly into your cat’s eyes frequently so you know what is normal and if there are any changes to the condition of your cat's eyes.
2009
Total Vet Cost:
Tap each image to find out more
of Americans don’t have
$22,567
$20
$18
$16
$14
$12
$10
$8
$6
$4
$2
It’s heart-breaking to imagine turning down crucial treatment for your pet due to finances.
$34,830
Correct !
Healthy Paws claims made for incidents occurring between January 1, 2019 - December 31, 2019. Reimbursement based on covered treatments using a 90% reimbursement level and a $500 annual deductible
Customer story: Rue was found to be allergic to trees, grass and pollen. Now with monthly allergy shots, Rue can enjoy her romps in the woods once again. The vet bill: $1,400.
What do you think was one of the most expensive vet bills in 2019 for dogs?
14%
Hugo was diagnosed with at least two severe disc herniations affecting the nerves to his back legs. Surgery was successful, but other issues soon emerged. Among the conditions found: congestive heart failure, fluid buildup in the lungs, diabetes and pancreatitis. He also developed a wound infection at the surgical site which needed a second minor surgery. Today, Hugo is walking, running, and playing like before.
Procedures once only found in human medicine are now available for dogs and cats:
Vet cost: Up to $12,972*
Stomach Issues
Luckily, more people are choosing pet insurance – new enrollments in the U.S. are growing by an average of
Healthy Paws claims made for incidents occurring between January 1, 2019 - December 31, 2019. Reimbursement based on covered treatments using a 90% reimbursement level and a $250 annual deductible
All of the above
$30,847
Prince, a 7-year-old gentle Pitbull Terrier, suffered acute kidney (renal) failure, resulting in a full month hospital stay. He required dialysis and treatment to fight an infection that was discovered during his stay. He’s now doing great with a prescription kidney diet and medication to manage the infection.
2013
in savings for an
emergency.
Pets bring us joy, love, and good health, and by making pet health care a priority, we can return the favor.
2015
$56,533
There’s one specific condition for dogs
that’s on the rise and made the top 10 list for the first time in 2019.
Which do you think it was?
Prince
†
in savings for an
emergency.
4.5%
40%
Correct !
2011
Cats develop diabetes mellitus, which is the inability to produce enough insulin to balance blood sugar, or glucose levels. Left untreated, it can lead to weight loss, loss of appetite, vomiting, dehydration, severe depression, problems with motor function, coma and even death. Male cats and those who are older or obese are most likely to develop the condition.
Top 10 Conditions in Dogs
- Bone marrow transplants
- Chiropractic care
- Knee replacements
- Advanced allergy testing
- Cancer surgeries
- Bone marrow transplants
- Chiropractic care
$34,830
Eye conditions
in savings for an
emergency.
Did you know? Cats can get skin cancer, especially those with lighter fur.
What do you think was one of the most expensive vet bills in 2019 for dogs?
There are new conditions for cats making the top 10 list for the first time in 2019. Which of these conditions do you think are new to the list?
7. Pain
Vet cost: Up to $1,695*
Vet cost: Up to $14,737*
Vet cost: Up to $3,094*
Many pet parents say they wished they’d signed up for pet insurance before their pet got sick or injured. They simply didn’t know how expensive vet bills could be and weren’t prepared financially.
These are the top accidents and illnesses that made dogs visit the vet in 2019.**
4. Heart conditions
+
$30,847
26%
7.7%
†
7.1%
Diabetes, kidney conditions and heart conditions are all new to the list of top 10 ailments for cats. This may be related to increasing rates of obesity or to cats living longer thanks to new, advanced treatment options.
Vet cost: Up to $9,610*
Cats’ stomach issues can include gastrointestinal disorders, inflammation, food allergies, poisoning, intestinal bacteria or parasites and food allergies.
10%
+
Correct !
pain
Did you know? Veterinarians can now perform a procedure using ultrasound shock waves to break apart kidney stones or bladder stones.
5. Skin conditions
Cats are prone to urinary tract disease or infections, which have similar symptoms. Urinary Tract Blockages, an obstruction of the urethra, can be serious and life threatening and are most common in male cats.
2019
Kidney conditions
Cancer
2009
5.8%
4.8%
+
Heart Conditions
+
$30,847
9. Diabetes
Vet cost: Up to $24,402*
It’s heart-breaking to imagine turning down crucial treatment for your pet due to finances.
Technological innovations are increasing our pets’ quality of life
Cats’ stomach issues can include gastrointestinal disorders, inflammation, food allergies, poisoning, intestinal bacteria or parasites and food allergies.
+
Did you know? Diabetes cannot be cured, but it can be controlled with diet and insulin.
Top 10 Conditions in Cats
Chronic kidney disease is a common ailment in older cats. Acute kidney injury is a severe condition with a relatively sudden onset. Mild kidney conditions may be managed with a special diet. Symptoms include increased thirst and urination, decreased appetite and weight loss.
+
17%
1. Stomach issues
Did you know? If your cat is shaking or tilting his head or walking in circles, he may have an ear infection.
10. Heart conditions
Heart issues in cats can include heart disease, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, complications from blood clots, heart valve issues, and heart murmur. There is no cure for heart failure but most heart conditions can be managed with medication.
Kidney Conditions
Eye conditions affecting cats can include conjunctivitis, corneal ulcers, uveitis and retinal damage. A veterinarian should check out all eye conditions immediately to reduce the chance of long-term damage. Treatment can range from eye drops to surgery.
These are the top accidents and illnesses that made cats visit the vet in 2019.**
6. Eye conditions
Diabetes
Did you know? Diabetes cannot be cured, but it can be controlled with diet and insulin.
2009
4.5%
+
14%
skin conditions
+
Did you know? You should look lovingly into your cat’s eyes frequently so you know what is normal and if there are any changes to the condition of your cat's eyes.
Urinary tract infection
Ear infections
10. Ear infections
2. Urinary tract conditions
+
$1,567
3. Cancer
Pain usually indicates an underlying condition or can be caused by aging and arthritis. Past trauma, genetic conditions, and even accidents can lead to a pet experiencing pain. If your cat appears to be in pain, get them to the vet immediately.
All of the above
Customer story: Checkers was straining to pass urine and his bladder was the size of a lemon. Checkers required emergency surgery to remove a blockage in his urinary tract. Cost: $2,325.
Did you know? Cats can get skin cancer, especially those with lighter fur.
+
Vet cost: Up to $12,587*
Did you know? Cancer is the #1 cause of death in senior pets.
2019
Did you know? If your cat is shaking or tilting his head or walking in circles, he may have an ear infection.
Did you know? Disease, parasites, and viruses can be prevented with vaccines.
Cats can be afflicted with a myriad of skin conditions, caused by infections, pests or allergies. Most common symptoms are itchiness, dry or flaky skin and over-grooming.
Vet cost: Up to $4,080*
Ear infections are uncomfortable and sometimes painful, and they can also be a symptom of a more significant health issue. If left untreated, ear infections can lead to hearing loss or other health problems. Kittens, if left outside, are prone to
ear mites, which are tiny parasites that live inside the ear canal and can cause infection.