Every pet owner knows that pet health concerns are a part of life. That’s why PetSure, Australia’s leading pet health insurer, and the power behind GapOnly®, has released its annual Pet Health Monitor report. Drawing from one of the nation’s largest pet health databases, this report is a valuable resource for pet owners. It combines millions of pet health claims data with veterinary knowledge and field research to provide insights into the health and care of dogs and cats across Australia.
Covering a wide range of breeds, the report offers a detailed analysis of pet health trends over the past year. It sheds light on key health concerns and provides clear guidance on prevention, intervention, and what to expect throughout your pet’s life.
Below are a few highlights from the report.
- Skin and ear infections along with digestive issues remain the top three health conditions experienced by dogs, with average claim costs starting at approx. $600 but ranging to more than $20,000.
- Cancer is a risk for pets as much as it is for humans – 1 in 4 dogs will claim for cancer in their lifetime. In 2023, the total cost of claims for cancer for both dogs and cats amounted to over $31 Million AUD.
- Arthritis is the most common cause of pain in older pets. It affects nearly 40% of pets over the age of 8. While certain breeds are more susceptible than others, the Pet Health Monitor explores the range of treatment options available. Annual costs to treat arthritis can range from $600 a year to $1,600.
- Pets, just like humans, are susceptible to heart disease – wear and tear on the heart, breakdown of the heart valves, and weakened heart muscles are all common indicators of this condition. As pets age, their risk of developing heart disease increases. With treatment costs ranging from $2,000 without surgery to >$20,000 with surgery, the outcomes and chances of recovery are vastly improved with lifelong healthy habits, early detection, and proactive health management.
- Pet and human surgeries are not that dissimilar – this year’s Pet Health Monitor delves into the comparison between two surgical procedures (hip replacement and cruciate ligament/ACL surgery) and explores the similarities and differences between pets and humans. The findings reveal that while anatomically different, the two procedures share many similarities from pre-operative imaging to post-operative rehabilitation.
- Flea and tick season is lasting longer than ever – PetSure’s data shows a shift in tick paralysis claims from a seasonal peak back in the year 2000 spanning September-December to an earlier onset and a longer duration (August-January) in 2024. This indicates paralysis ticks are active earlier and linger longer throughout the year.
- Cost of living impacts on pet health – In addition to the pet health data, this year’s study also looked at pet owners’ attitudes to pet health and alarmingly found that half of all pet owners surveyed have reduced their spending on vet care. 21% have delayed a vet visit to ‘wait and see’ what happens and 22% have reduced the frequency of routine appointments for check-ups. A further 13% had elected to skip routine flea, tick and worm treatments completely to cut their cost-of-living pressures.
Commenting about the research from the new Pet Health Monitor, PetSure CEO Alexandra Thomas said, “Pet health impacts both pets and families deeply. We know that early diagnosis as well as preventative treatment is what really makes a difference to the cost of care.”
“Our Pet Health Monitor gives insights into the health of Australia’s dog and cat population, empowering pet parents to address health challenges effectively. We know that collaboration between pet owners and vets is vital for proactive pet health management, and in the long run, prevention is better than treatment as there is no taxpayer funded hospital system for pets.”
To learn about pet health trends and proactive healthcare, download the Pet Health Monitor 2024 report: https://petsure.com.au/pet-health-monitor/
Insurance products are issued by The Hollard Insurance Company Pty Ltd ABN 78 090 584 473, AFSL 241436 (Hollard) and/or PetSure (Australia) Pty Ltd ABN 95 075 949 923, AFSL 420183 (PetSure) (from 8 May 2023 only), administered by PetSure and promoted and distributed through their authorised representatives and distribution partners.
Any advice provided is general only and does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation or needs. Cover is subject to the policy terms and conditions. Please consider the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) to ensure this product meets your needs before purchasing or choosing to continue with the product. PDS and Target Market Determination available on our partners’ websites. Meet our partners at petsure.com.au/partners.
