Common conditions in older and senior cats
As your cat gets older, they can be more susceptible to certain health conditions, such as:
- Arthritis: Just like us, older cats can feel the creaks and cracks in their joints, making them a bit less agile and their movements slower.
- Dental issues: Your cat’s teeth might need some extra attention with age. Bad breath is a key indicator that there may be something up with their mouth.
- Weight management: Keep an eye on their weight to avoid extra stress on their joints and organs.
- Vision and hearing loss: Fuzzy vision and poor hearing might become more apparent, so you might need to be more patient with your older cat.
- Skin problems: Older cats might develop dry skin or lumps and bumps, which are worth keeping an eye on.
- Kidney disease: Unfortunately, it's not uncommon for older cats to face kidney issues, so a kidney-friendly diet might be needed. Signs to look out for include drinking more, increased urination, weight loss, vomiting and bad breath.
Having senior cat insurance in place will help cover many of these conditions, as long as your cat didn’t have these conditions – or show symptoms of these conditions – at the time you took out the policy.
Insurance for senior cats also covers accidents too, which can be costly if you don’t have insurance. According to the Association of British Insurers, surgery for a cat’s broken tibia can cost up to £2000.
What is excluded in Lifetime pet insurance for older cats?
While Lifetime pet insurance is comprehensive, there are a few things that typically aren’t covered by most insurers, such as:
- Dental treatment: Pet insurance policies don’t cover the cost of routine dental check-ups and treatment. The only dental cover you’ll receive is following an accident or injury.
- Pre-existing conditions: You’re not covered for treatment and medical care for a condition your cat already has when you take out your policy.
- Excess and co-payment: With most Lifetime pet insurance policies, you’ll need to pay towards the sum of the claim yourself, this is called an excess. Some policies also have what is called a “co-payment”, which is essentially another excess, where you pay a percentage of the full cost.
What is excluded in Time Limited pet insurance for older cats?
With a Time Limited pet insurance policy, the following typically won’t be covered:
- Routine check-ups
- General treatments such as worming
- Vaccinations
- Pregnancy
- Preventative treatments
- Dental care
- Pre-existing conditions
Always check your insurance policy wording carefully to fully understand what is and isn’t covered.
What is the cost of pet insurance for my older cat?
Pet insurance costs can vary based on several factors—some related to your cat, and others not. For example, where you live and the typical cost of vet care in your area can impact your premiums.
Age is a major factor. Older cats are more likely to develop health conditions, which makes insurance more expensive compared to younger cats. Breed also plays a role—pedigree cats like Burmese are more prone to certain hereditary issues, such as heart disease, obesity, and respiratory problems.
Your cat’s lifestyle matters too. Outdoor cats are exposed to more risks, while indoor cats tend to face fewer environmental health issues, which can lower insurance costs.
Taking out a Lifetime policy when your cat is young can be more affordable in the long run, as it ensures ongoing conditions are covered year after year.
How do I protect my older cat and how can Asda Money help?
One of the most effective ways to protect your older cat is by arranging suitable pet insurance. Taking out a policy early in your cat’s life means you’re more likely to be covered for future health issues, including hereditary conditions that may develop with age. Insurance can provide valuable financial support and peace of mind when it comes to unexpected vet bills or age-related illnesses.
In addition to insurance, it’s important to keep up with regular vet checkups and routine treatments throughout your cat’s life. Missing annual booster vaccinations, for example, could result in a claim being denied if your cat becomes ill from a preventable condition.
Asda Money offers a range of cat insurance options to help meet your needs. You can compare different levels of cover and choose what suits you and your cat best—all explained in clear, straightforward terms.
