Do I need cat insurance?

Cats are little acrobats, with incredible in-build survival instincts. But while they might appear invincible, even the most confident feline can fall ill or get injured.

When something unexpected happens, the cost of vet treatment can quickly become overwhelming. This is why many owners choose to protect themselves with cat insurance.

Trying to decide whether pet insurance is right for your cat? Let’s look at the main considerations.

• Why cat insurance is worth considering
  > 1. It protects you from sudden, expensive vet bills
  > 2. It can cover illnesses – including lifelong conditions 
  > 3. Insurance offers more support than many owners realise
• Do indoor cats still need insurance?
• Common questions about cat insurance
  > How much does cat insurance cost?
  > How much should I insure my cat for?
  > When should I insure my cat?
  > Can I insure an older cat?
  > Can my insurer pay the vet directly?

Why cat insurance is worth considering

1. It protects you from sudden, expensive vet bills

Even young, energetic cats can experience emergencies. Vet bills rise quickly when specialist care, surgery or overnight hospitalisation is required.

Common reasons for emergency vet visits include:

• Road traffic accidents 
• Fights with neighbourhood cats or other animals
• Becoming trapped in garages or outbuildings
• Ingesting toxins like antifreeze or rat poison

When it comes to traffic accidents, cats are more likely to be injured or killed during twilight hours, which is when they tend to be more active.

And contrary to what you might expect, a study by the University of Bristol shows cats in rural areas are more than twice as likely to be involved in road accidents than those in cities.

Having insurance can protect you from having to make heartbreaking decisions when it comes to your cat’s care, as financial worries are effectively removed from the equation.

2. It can cover illnesses – including lifelong conditions

Our data shows that most vet visits are illness-related rather than accident-related. Chronic conditions can appear at any age and require ongoing treatment, check-ups and medication.

Older cats are particularly prone to issues such as:

• Diabetes
• Kidney disease
• Arthritis
• Hyperthyroidism

Pedigree breeds like Ragdolls, Persians and British Shorthairs are also more likely to have inherited health conditions. Insurance can help you manage long-term care without financial strain.

Be aware that not all insurers cover pre-existing conditions. But a Petgevity Lifetime Plus policy can potentially cover conditions as long as they’re disclosed and agreed*.

3. Insurance offers more support than many owners realise

Depending on your policy level, you may also receive cover for:

• Missing cat advertising and rewards
• Emergency cattery fees if you’re unexpectedly hospitalised
• Behavioural treatment recommended by a vet
• Complementary therapies
• Dental illness treatment (available as an add-on with Petgevity policies)

Do indoor cats still need insurance?

Indoor cats may avoid outdoor dangers, but they still face medical risks and can be prone to accidents.

Common indoor health or behavioural issues include:

• Obesity-related conditions
• Stress from limited stimulation
• Depression or frustration from lack of outdoor access
• Anxiety triggered by seeing outdoor cats through windows and not being able to defend their territory

Indoor accidents also happen more often than people expect, such as:

• Falling or trying to jump from open windows
• Getting stuck in washing machines or dryers
• Chewing electrical wires
• Eating toxic houseplants or medicines
• Swallowing dangerous small items

Insurance gives you peace of mind that help is available when you need it.

Common questions about cat insurance

How much does cat insurance cost?

Premiums vary based on:

• Type and level of policy
• Vet fee limits
• Your cat’s age and breed
• Your location
• Whether you include pre-existing conditions
• Policy excess and optional bill share (otherwise known as co-payment)

How much should I insure my cat for?

While a cheaper policy may be tempting, there’s a risk it might not stretch far enough in a serious emergency. Procedures like fracture repairs, abdominal surgery or long-term illness management can potentially run into the thousands.

Before choosing cover, consider:

• Does your cat’s breed have known genetic risks?
• What are the average treatment costs at your local vet?
• Does the policy include extras like dental or behavioural care?

If you’re unsure where to start, read our guide on how to choose the best pet insurance to find out exactly what cover’s available for your furry friend.

When should I insure my cat?

It’s worth at least considering as early as possible, as kittens can be adventurous, yet still prone to accidents or vulnerable to illness.

We offer cover from around eight weeks old. And getting insured early means you’ll be financially protected for any conditions they may develop along the way.

If you have an older cat, such as a rescue, check if your preferred provider has an upper age limit, or if there’s an age when you have to pay a compulsory excess or bill share.

Can I insure an older cat?

Yes, you can get insurance for an older cat, but choices can be more limited. Older cats may require a co-payment or have restrictions on pre-existing conditions. Check policy wording carefully when comparing options.

Also, what’s defined as ‘older’ or senior may vary between providers. With Petgevity, cats become older at 10 years old (or ‘vintage’, if you prefer).

Can my insurer pay the vet directly?

Many vets are happy to work directly with insurers, but both sides must agree. If direct payment is important to you, ask your vet which companies they work with.

*Cover for pre-existing medical conditions is subject to acceptance. They will not be covered unless you have declared them and they are shown on your Confirmation of Cover.