“Pets are family, and when something goes wrong, owners are often faced with difficult decisions, especially if they’re not financially prepared.”
The Real Cost of Pet Health Care
The 2025 data highlights the wide range of veterinary costs across common conditions:
Skin conditions (dogs 1–8 years): Average $657, with high-end treatments exceeding $21,000*
Gastrointestinal conditions (dogs 1–8 years): Average $872, with high-end treatment reaching over $37,000*
Urinary conditions (cats 1–8 years): Average $1,519, with treatment exceeding $33,000 in severe cases*
“Even conditions that appear relatively minor at first can develop into more serious and costly health issues,” Crighton says.
“It’s not just the big emergencies; ongoing treatment, diagnostics, and medication all contribute to the overall cost of care.”
Why Is Veterinary Care Getting More Expensive?
Increased complexity of treatments
Advances in life-saving veterinary medicine
Ongoing care for chronic conditions
The rising cost of diagnostics and specialised medications
“Veterinary care today is incredible, but that also means it can come with a higher price tag,” Crighton says. “That’s why it’s so important for pet owners to think ahead.”
The Reality Behind the Numbers
While the data highlights rising costs, broader research shows the real-world impact is already being felt. Research from Animal Medicines Australia^ found that 68% of pet owners have considered not taking their pet to the vet due to cost pressures.
“That’s the reality of the cost-of-living crisis, and sadly, that pressure seems to be intensifying with the current global situation,” Crighton says.
“Many people are having to balance their finances against their pet’s health, and that’s an incredibly difficult position to be in.”
Planning Ahead: Insurance or Savings?
Pet Insurance Australia is encouraging pet owners to have a plan in place, whether that’s through pet insurance or a dedicated savings fund. While some owners choose to self-fund, the reality is that large, unexpected costs may quickly exceed what many households have available at short notice.
“Having a plan in place means you can focus on what’s best for your pet,” Crighton says. “It can help to remove some of the financial pressure at what is already a stressful time. During financial pressure, it’s a good idea for pet owners to plan ahead.”
A Simple Question for Pet Owners
As economic pressures continue, the takeaway for pet owners is a simple, if sobering, question: If your pet needed urgent treatment tomorrow, could you afford it?
References:
* PetSure 2025 Pet Health Monitor Report
^ Animal Medicines Australia Pet Survey
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Disclaimer
Pet Insurance Australia policies entered into for the first time prior to 8 May 2023 and subsequent renewals of those policies are issued by The Hollard Insurance Company Pty Ltd ABN 78 090 584 473, AFSL 241436, arranged and administered by PetSure (Australia) Pty Ltd ABN 95 075 949 923, AFSL 420183 (PetSure) and promoted and distributed by PetSure’s Authorised Representative (AR) Pet Insurance Australia Pty Ltd ABN 85 113 507 850, AR 326233 (PIA). Pet Insurance Australia policies entered into for the first time on or after 8 May 2023 and subsequent renewals of those policies are issued by PetSure and promoted and distributed by PetSure’s AR, PIA. Any advice provided is general only and does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation or needs. Please consider the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) to ensure this product meets your needs before purchasing, or choosing to continue with the product. PDS and Target Market Determination available at petinsuranceaustralia.com.au.
