What is the average cost of pet insurance?

According to the ABI, the average pet insurance premium in the UK during 2024 was £389. However, for some, this figure may go up or down depending on a range of factors, such as your pet's breed, age, and health status.

What factors affect the cost of pet insurance?

Pet Breed

Some pedigree cat and dog breeds are more prone to hereditary conditions and are more likely to need medical treatment. This includes brachycephalic (flat-faced) dog breeds like pugs and French bulldogs that are more prone to breathing problems, or larger dog breeds that are more susceptible to hip dysplasia.

Age

The older your pet, the more likely your pet insurance premiums will be higher. This is because older pets are more likely to suffer from age-related illnesses and injuries that may require treatment.

Medical History

If your pet has a pre-existing condition or a history of health issues, they may be seen as a higher risk to insure. This will then push up the cost of your pet insurance.

Location

Some areas of the UK have a higher cost of living, whilst vets charge more in certain places. This can have a knock-on effect on the cost of your pet insurance.

Cover Level

Time-limited insurance covers some short-term illnesses and accidents within a 12 month period, and can be a more affordable option.

Lifetime pet insurance provides more comprehensive coverage, but can also be more costly.

Tips for reducing pet insurance costs

• Keep your pet healthy: By looking after your pet and keeping them healthy, you may help to reduce their medical bills which can have a positive impact on the cost of your pet insurance.
  
  
• Vaccinate your pet: Keeping up to date with your pet’s vaccinations and boosters can help protect them from preventable diseases and illness.
  
  
• Neuter or spay your pet: This procedure may mean that they are less susceptible to certain illnesses and conditions, which could help bring down the cost of your insurance.
  
  
• Pick your breed wisely: Certain pedigree breeds come with higher insurance costs.
  
  
• Look for a higher excess: The more you can put towards a claim yourself, the lower your premiums are likely to be, but it’s important to make sure it’s an amount you can afford to pay.

Is pet insurance worth it?

Pet insurance helps cover the costs of treatment for accidents, emergencies or unexpected illnesses. While you’ll be paying a monthly or annual premium, it’s important to consider this against the potentially high cost of treatments. For example, spinal surgery for dogs is one of the most common procedures in the UK and can cost upwards of £8,000^[1].

With the right pet insurance in place, tests and treatments like MRI scans, surgery and post-surgery physiotherapy may be covered. Without insurance, you would be responsible for paying for each part of the treatment yourself.

How can I protect my pet through Asda Money?

Pet insurance provides financial protection and peace of mind against unexpected vet costs, whether your pet is injured in an accident or falls ill. At Asda Money, we partner with a trusted insurance administrator to offer a range of pet insurance options tailored to your needs.

Explore our pet insurance plans today and compare cover types to find the right policy for you and your pet. 

[1] https://www.abi.org.uk/news/news-articles/2023/6/insurers-paid-out-over-1-billion-to-protect-pets-in-2022/