Pet insurance payouts: Insights into vet bills

Owning a pet brings huge amounts of joy and fun, but it also comes with important responsibilities – the most important of which is ensuring their health and well-being. While we all want the best for our pets, vet bills can catch us off guard and throw us in the deep end financially. There’s no government-funded Te Whatu Ora (Health New Zealand) for pets unfortunately, which means pet owners typically face the full financial reality of veterinary care, unless you have pet insurance. 

Knowing the costs you might encounter helps you prepare and highlights why pet insurance can make a world of difference in the event of our pets getting sick. We’re here to break down the most expensive conditions that required claims in 2023as reported in PetSure’s Pet Health Monitor 2024, and add some valuable insights on staying ahead of vet expenses in 2025. 

Most expensive claims for dogs

If you’re a dog owner, you don’t need reminding of how much they mean to you. But their spirited nature and lack of a ‘safety-first policy’ can also mean unpredictable trips to the vet. Here are some of the priciest conditions that affected dogs and the jaw-dropping claims PetSure covered in 2023. 

Cancer and Tumors 

• Average Cost: $1,514 
• Highest Claim: $37,133 

It is estimated that almost 50% of dogs over the age of 10 will develop cancer and approximately 1 in 4 dogs will, at some stage in their life, develop cancer. Whether it’s removing a malignant tumour or undergoing chemotherapy, costs can soar quickly. 

Gastrointestinal disease 

• Average Cost: $661 
• Highest Claim: $25,939 

Gastrointestinal issues are another common ailment, often triggered by swallowing something they shouldn’t  – because, of course, who wouldn’t eat socks for breakfast? Advanced conditions like pancreatitis can lead to significantly steeper bills. 

Skin infection or allergies 

• Average Cost: $586 
• Highest Claim: $20,622 

Itchy skin or hot spots might seem trivial at first, but they can progress into something far more serious. Chronic or severe cases of allergies in dogs often require advanced treatments and medications. 

Ear infection 

• Average Cost: $399 
• Highest Claim: $20,654 

Whether it’s a water-loving Labrador or a floppy-eared Spaniel, ear infections are incredibly common. They can range from relatively mild nuisances to severe complications needing surgery in rare cases.   

Arthritis 

• Average Cost: $682 
• Highest Claim: $12,387 

For senior dogs, degenerative joint diseases like arthritis are all too common. Managing this condition with ongoing therapy, medications, or even surgical intervention adds up rapidly. 

Most expensive claims for cats

Cats may seem like low-maintenance companions, but when it comes to health issues, their medical expenses are anything but minimal. Here are the top culprits outlined by PetSure that had costs racking up for cat owners.

Traumatic injury 

• Average Cost: $836 
• Highest Claim: $30,990 

Cats are known for their curious and adventurous nature, which can often lead to traumatic injuries. Whether it's a fall from a high place or getting into a scuffle with another animal, these incidents can result in surprisingly expensive veterinary bills.      

Gastrointestinal disease 

• Average Cost: $530 
• Highest Claim: $27,061

Kittens are especially prone to gastrointestinal diseases due to their curious nature. Like with puppies, new objects presented to kittens often undergo the classic taste test. For older cats, conditions like colitis or inflammatory bowel disease become more prevalent and costly to manage. 

Urinary tract disease 

● Average Cost: $1,589 

● Highest Claim: $16,559 

This condition remains a pressing issue for cats, especially neutered males, who are more prone to blockages and older cats with declining bladder function. Emergency treatment for severe cases can be life-saving but undeniably expensive. 

Skin infection or allergy 

Average Cost: $398 

Highest Claim: $9,614 

Similar to dogs, skin conditions are frequent visitors to the vet. Chronic issues often require continuous treatment, leading to escalating costs. 

Eye disease 

Average Cost: $294 

Highest Claim: $7,823 

From infections to more serious conditions like glaucoma, eye-related diseases require immediate attention to avoid permanent damage. 

Why regular vet visits are crucial

Taking your pet to the vet regularly (even when they aren't sick) seems unnecessary, but it can save you money in the long run. Preventative care, such as regular check-ups and vaccinations, can help catch health issues early, preventing them from becoming more expensive to treat. Plus, these visits are a chance to ask questions about your pet’s diet and weight, behaviour, or anything else that’s been on your mind.   

 How often should I take my pet to the vet?

Generally, taking your pet to the vet at least once a year is recommended for a routine dog or cat check up. However, the frequency can vary based on your pet's age, health, and specific needs. For example, a new kitten or puppy will take a few more trips to the vet to get all their vaccinations and a senior dog with more complex care or an ongoing ailment would benefit from more frequent visits.

Common costs to expect at the vets   

Outside of emergency visits, these are the kinds of regular costs you can expect to encounter as a pet owner in New Zealand. Keep in mind that costs can vary depending on the clinic, location, level of care provided, and specific needs of your pet: 

• Vaccinations: $55 - $100 per shot 
• Routine bloodwork: $70 - $200 
• Dental cleaning (if needed): $200+ 
• Parasite prevention (e.g. flea and worm treatments): $20+ monthly 

These routine expenses can add up over the years, which is why a proactive approach protects both your pet and your budget. 

The importance of keeping pet insurance 

We get it – pet insurance might feel like an extra cost when all seems well. But those hefty claims we just discussed? They prove how invaluable getting cover can be. 

Without insurance, emergency surgeries or ongoing treatments for chronic conditions can put a serious dent in your finances or have you face the harsh reality of not being able to care for a beloved pet. With it, you're free to focus on your pet's recovery rather than the size of the bill. 

SPCA Pet Insurance is here to help your pet get the best care possible. Get a quote today and give yourself and your furry little family members the gift of peace of mind.