Take a long-term approach to saving with pet insurance

Apr 22, 2012 by admin

There are many ways you can cut down on the amount you spend on your cat without changing their lifestyle, such as buying food in bulk and sharing care responsibilities with other pet owners to save on cattery bills. However, when it comes to pet insurance, it may actually be in your best financial interests to pay more for your cover.

The various policies out there from companies such as Pets at Home offering differing levels of cover, depending on the premium you want to pay. While it may be tempting to look at cutting back on your premiums to reduce your outgoings, the financial costs will be yours to meet if your pet suddenly needs more advanced – and expensive – treatments.

Take the case of nine-year-old tom cat Tinker, who has been struck down by a mystery disease which has turned him, according to his owners, into a “living robot”. After numerous tests vets have been left baffled by the condition, which has left Tinker with a stiff gait and wide-eyed stare, while doesn’t remember to drink, eat or even blink. His owners Shona and Allister Sim are now the cat’s full-time carers.

While cases such as this are very rare, should your animal require an extensive period of medical treatment, the costs could be overwhelming without suitable insurance. One x-ray alone can cost £160, while and overnight stay at the vets can reach £386. So while choosing a more comprehensive policy may cost more in the short-term, it could be a valuable money saving option as your beloved pet gets older.