What treatments do cats and dogs need?

• Routine check-ups
• First course of vaccinations
• Booster vaccinations
• Microchipping
• Treatment for fleas, ticks, worms and other parasites
  
  

As well as the above treatments, they may also need the following at some point in their lives:

• Spaying or neutering
• Dental care
• Blood tests, x-rays, ultrasounds
• Treatment for illnesses and injuries
• Nutritional guidance
• Behavioural consultations
• Emergency care
• Senior care

How do vet fees work in the UK?

In the UK, vet fees vary from one practice to another and depend on your location in the country. Here's an overview of how vet fees typically work:

• Consultation fees: You’re usually charged a consultation fee for vet appointments. This covers the examination and assessment of the animal's health.
  
  
• Treatment costs: Treatment costs vary based on the specific services provided. This may include medications, vaccinations, diagnostic tests, surgeries, dental procedures and other treatments.
  
  
• Procedures and surgeries: More complex procedures and surgeries have a higher cost. Fees for surgery, such as spaying, neutering or other operations, depend on the nature and complexity of the procedure.
  
  
• Medications and prescription fees: You’re responsible for the cost of prescribed medications for your pet. Most vets charge a fee for writing and dispensing prescriptions.
  
  
• Out of hours and emergency fees: Vets may charge higher fees for consultations or treatments provided outside regular working hours or during emergencies.
  
  
• Hospitalisation and nursing care: If your pet needs hospitalisation or ongoing nursing care, extra fees may be charged to cover the cost of monitoring, medication administration and other necessary services.
  
  
• Preventative care services: Routine preventative care, including vaccinations, boosters, flea and tick treatments and dental care is an additional cost to consider.

Will pet insurance cover vet fees?

Pet insurance is designed to help cover vet fees, offering financial protection for unexpected healthcare costs for pets. Pet insurance doesn’t cover you for routine costs like vaccinations.

Asda Money provides pet insurance for cats and dogs only. You’ll find two types of insurance – Lifetime and Time Limited policies.

Lifetime Pet Insurance

There are five levels of Lifetime Insurance you can choose from, covering vet's fees up to £2,000, £4,000, £6,000, £8,000 and £10,000 per year.

New ongoing conditions are also insured for life, making it the most comprehensive policy you can get for your pet with Asda Money.

Time Limited Pet Insurance

Time Limited policies provide cover for 12 months from the first treatment date of a condition. You can choose to have cover for vet's fees up to either £2,000 or £5,000 per condition.

It covers you until the financial limit is reached, or 12 months have passed from the date they are diagnosed - whichever is sooner. Any ongoing treatment needed will be excluded from future claims.

Average cost of vet treatment by condition

The cost of treating dogs and cats varies depending on location as well as your vet practice. Below are some average costs for typical conditions or illnesses.

Average cost of ongoing vet treatment for cats

Average cost of ongoing vet treatment for dogs

Average cost of vet treatment for dogs based on size

The size of a dog can affect the cost of vet treatment because of their healthcare needs and the resources needed to provide appropriate care, such as:

• Medication dosages: larger dogs generally need higher dosages than smaller dogs.
  
  
• Surgical procedures: big dogs may need specialised equipment and increased quantities of anaesthetic.
  
  
• Hospitalisation: larger dogs may need more space and extra bedding in hospital.
  
  
• Resources: bigger breeds may need larger bandages and wound care supplies.
  
  
• Labour and time: larger breeds could require longer examinations, treatments and overall care.
  
  
• Breed: certain breeds, especially large or giant breeds, may be prone to specific health issues that require specialised care.
  
  
  

Average cost of vet treatment for a small dog below 10kg: (Chihuahua, Jack Russell, Pomeranian, Yorkshire Terrier)

Average cost of vet treatment for a medium dog between 10kg and 20kg: (Beagle, Cocker Spaniel, Corgi, Basset Hound)

Average cost of vet treatment for a large dog above 20kg: (Labrador Retriever, Dalmatian, German Shepherd, English Pointer)

How can Asda Money help?

Pet insurance can offer financial protection and peace of mind in the event of unexpected vet bills.

Choose the right insurance for you and your pet by comparing our different cover types without any of the confusing insurance jargon. 

Explore Pet Insurance with Asda Money and protect your pet today.