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^ Pre-existing conditions and certain illnesses may be excluded. Policy terms, conditions, exclusions, limits, benefit limits, sub-limits, annual condition limits and excess may apply. For details, please refer to the relevant Product Disclosure Statement (PDS).
◇ Symptoms listed are indicative only, others can apply.
>> As at 31/12/2023 based on the previous 12 months of PetSure (Australia) Pty Ltd claims data.
5 most common Pet Insurance claims in cats.
Learn about the top 5 Everyday Pet Insurance claimed conditions for cats.
Pet Insurance | 8 minute read | 26 March 2025
Our furry friends are family, and just like any family member, they can experience health issues. PetSure claims data provides valuable insights into the most common ailments affecting cats, allowing pet parents to be more informed and proactive in their care.
Here are the top most frequently claimed conditions for cats^:
1. Skin conditions.
This broad category encompasses a wide range of dermatological issues. Allergies (food, environmental, flea), bacterial infections (pyoderma), fungal infections (ringworm, yeast), and various other skin irritations fall under this heading.
Symptoms.
Symptoms can include:◇
Scratching, biting, or rubbing the skin.
Signs of irritation including red skin, scabs, bleeding, pustules, or weeping.
Hair loss, flaky skin, texture changes, lumps or an unusual or unpleasant smell.
Why it's common.
Cats' skin is their largest organ and is constantly exposed to environmental allergens and potential pathogens. Certain breeds are also predisposed to allergies.
Potential skin conditions costs by breed.
These are the highest recorded treatment costs>> for skin conditions^ based on some popular cats breeds. This may reflect the need for diagnostic testing (allergy tests, skin scrapes), medications (antihistamines, antibiotics, antifungals), and potentially ongoing management.
Note that the tables are based on PetSure claims data, 2023 calendar year. Reimbursement for these claims under a Pet Insurance policy, would be subject to limits, such as annual benefit limits or sub-limits, benefit percentage, applicable waiting periods and any applicable excess. Cover is subject to the policy terms and conditions. You should consider the relevant Product Disclosure Statement or policy wording available from the relevant provider. Please note that values calculated are based on all claims for that condition and medically related conditions in each calendar year.
Potential skin conditions costs based on cat breed.
| Cat breed. |
Highest cost for a single treatment.>> |
|---|---|
| Ragdoll. | $2,828. |
| Domestic Short Hair. | $2,951. |
| Domestic Medium Hair. |
$2,743. |
| Tabby. | $1,609. |
2. Gastrointestinal tract condition.
This category includes a variety of digestive problems, such as vomiting, diarrhea, gastroenteritis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and pancreatitis. Causes can range from dietary indiscretions to infections or underlying medical conditions.
Symptoms.
Symptoms can include:◇
Diarrhoea, vomiting or constipation.
Blood or mucus in stool/vomit.
Increased frequency/urgency passing stool.
Weight loss.
Loss of appetite and interest in food.
May seem more tired than usual.
Why it's common.
Cats' natural curiosity and tendency to explore can lead them to eat unsuitable items, causing digestive problems. Stress and infections can also disrupt their digestive systems.
Potential gastrointestinal tract condition costs by breed.
These are the highest recorded treatment costs>> for gastrointestinal tract conditon^ based on some popular cat breeds. This may reflect the need for diagnostic tests (fecal exams, blood work, X-rays), medications (antiemetics, antidiarrheals), and potentially hospitalisation for severe cases.
Note that the tables are based on PetSure claims data, 2023 calendar year. Reimbursement for these claims under a Pet Insurance policy, would be subject to limits, such as annual benefit limits or sub-limits, benefit percentage, applicable waiting periods and any applicable excess. Cover is subject to the policy terms and conditions. You should consider the relevant Product Disclosure Statement or policy wording available from the relevant provider. Please note that values calculated are based on all claims for that condition and medically related conditions in each calendar year.
Potential gastrointestinal tract condition costs based on cat breed.
| Cat breed. |
Highest cost for a single treatment.>> |
|---|---|
| Ragdoll. | $5,726. |
| Domestic Short Hair. | $7,256. |
| Domestic Medium Hair. | $7,508. |
| Domestic Long Hair. |
$2,760. |
| Tabby. | $9,841. |
| Domestic House Cat. | $6,131. |
3. Traumatic accidents.
Injuries resulting from traumatic accidents, including puncture and laceration bite injuries, open and closed wounds and fractures of bones.
Symptoms.
Symptoms can include:◇
Wounds, scratches, pus, bleeding, swelling, heat, pain.
Limping, changes to movement.
Behaviour changes.
Broken claws.
Pain/tenderness.
Why it's common.
It's usually common in active cats, which are at a higher risk of accidents.
Potential traumatic accident costs by breed.
These are the highest recorded treatment costs>> for traumatic accidents^ based on some popular cat breeds.
Note that the tables are based on PetSure claims data, 2023 calendar year. Reimbursement for these claims under a Pet Insurance policy, would be subject to limits, such as annual benefit limits or sub-limits, benefit percentage, applicable waiting periods and any applicable excess. Cover is subject to the policy terms and conditions. You should consider the relevant Product Disclosure Statement or policy wording available from the relevant provider. Please note that values calculated are based on all claims for that condition and medically related conditions in each calendar year.
Potential traumatic accident costs based on cat breed.
| Cat breed. |
Highest cost for a single treatment.>> |
|---|---|
| Domestic Short Hair. | $10,804. |
| Domestic Medium Hair. | $9,876. |
| Domestic Long Hair. |
$8,066. |
| Tabby. | $7,957. |
| Domestic House Cat. | $7,523. |
4. Arthritis.
Cats may experience joint problems, arthritis, ligament injuries, and other musculoskeletal issues, especially as they age. Certain breeds and active cats are more prone to these conditions.
Symptoms.
Symptoms can include:◇
Lameness or limping on affected limb(s).
Stiffness on rising.
Reluctance to jump or use stairs.
Swelling on legs.
Potential arthritis costs by breed.
These are the highest recorded treatment costs>> for arthritis^ based on some popular cat breeds.
Note that the tables are based on PetSure claims data, 2023 calendar year. Reimbursement for these claims under a Pet Insurance policy, would be subject to limits, such as annual benefit limits or sub-limits, benefit percentage, applicable waiting periods and any applicable excess. Cover is subject to the policy terms and conditions. You should consider the relevant Product Disclosure Statement or policy wording available from the relevant provider. Please note that values calculated are based on all claims for that condition and medically related conditions in each calendar year.
Potential arthritis costs based on cat breed.
| Cat breed. |
Highest cost for a single treatment.>> |
|---|---|
| Domestic Short Hair. | $2,680. |
| Domestic Long Hair. |
$1,475. |
| Domestic House Cat. | $1,456. |
5. Urinary system disorder.
Urinary system disoarder refer to a range of issues that affect their ability to produce and eliminate urine.
Symptoms.
Symptoms can include:◇
Changes to toileting behaviour, including increased visits to the litter box, straining, or vocalising when urinating, changes in volume of urine passed.
Increased licking of the groin area.
Changes in colour of urine.
Urinary incontinence.
Swollen abdomen, collapse in the case of urinary obstruction.
Vomiting, changes in appetite, weight loss.
Urinary system disorder costs by breed.
These are the highest recorded treatment costs>> for urinary system disorder^ in some popular cat breeds.
Note that the tables are based on PetSure claims data, 2023 calendar year. Reimbursement for these claims under a Pet Insurance policy, would be subject to limits, such as annual benefit limits or sub-limits, benefit percentage, applicable waiting periods and any applicable excess. Cover is subject to the policy terms and conditions. You should consider the relevant Product Disclosure Statement or policy wording available from the relevant provider. Please note that values calculated are based on all claims for that condition and medically related conditions in each calendar year.
Potential Urinary costs based on cat breed.
| Cat breed. |
Highest cost for a single treatment.>> |
|---|---|
| Ragdoll. | $6,412. |
| Domestic Short Hair. | $13,335. |
| Domestic Medium Hair. |
$23,286. |
| Domestic Long Hair. |
$5,398. |
| Tabby. | $7,953. |
| Domestic House Cat. | $6,269. |
By understanding the details of these common conditions, cat owners can be more prepared to address potential health issues and provide the best possible care for their furry companions.
Above is a summary only. By carefully reviewing and comparing Everyday Pet Insurance coverage options, you can choose the one that best suits your pet's health needs and your budget. Please read the relevant Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) for full terms, conditions, limits and exclusions that apply.
How Everyday Pet Insurance can help.
Unexpected vet bills can be stressful. Pet Insurance can help cover the costs of diagnosis, treatment, and medication for various health conditions, including those specific to your cat.
Here are some benefits you can enjoy with your Everyday Pet Insurance policy:
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