As pet owners, we all want the best for our furry companions. However, veterinary bills can quickly add up, especially when unexpected health issues arise.
Understanding the typical costs of common procedures can help you prepare and make informed decisions about your pet's care. Here's a breakdown of average veterinary costs in the UK for various treatments from a few different sources. Costs are only examples of what procedures could cost in 2025.
Dog Procedures: Average Costs
Neutering (Spaying/Castration):
- Spaying (female): £350–£450
- Castration (male): £240–£295 (source: pawsitivevetcare.co.uk)
Dental Care:
- Routine cleaning: £150–£300
- Extractions: £50–£200 per tooth
- Root canal treatment: £300–£600 (ilmdog.com)
Orthopaedic Surgery:
- Fracture repair: £1,779–£2,019
- Cruciate ligament surgery (TPLO): £2,019
Emergency Care:
- Out-of-hours consultation: £200–£300
- Emergency surgery (e.g. foreign body removal): £600–£3,300
Cat Procedures: Average Costs
Neutering (Spaying/Castration):
- Spaying (female): £150–£186
- Castration (male): £100–£186 (pawsitivevetcare.co.uk)
Dental Care:
- Routine cleaning: £150–£300
- Extractions: £50–£200 per tooth
- Root canal treatment: £300–£600
Emergency Care:
- Out-of-hours consultation: £200–£300
- Emergency surgery (e.g. foreign body removal): £600–£3,300
How Pet Insurance Can Help
Given the potential costs associated with veterinary procedures, pet insurance can provide some financial peace of mind. While policies vary, many cover a significant portion of treatment expenses, reducing the financial burden on pet owners.
According to the Association of British Insurers (ABI) In 2024, the average pet insurance claim in the UK was approximately £685, nearly 50% higher than the average annual policy premium of £389. This figure reflects a wide range of claims, from minor treatments to more serious conditions.
The total value of pet insurance claims paid out in 2024 reached a record £1.23 billion, with insurers handling an average of 4,730 claims per day, marking a significant increase from previous years.
These statistics underscore the importance of pet insurance in managing unexpected veterinary expenses, offering pet owners financial protection and peace of mind when their pets require medical care. However, it's essential to note that most standard pet insurance policies do not cover routine procedures like spaying, neutering or dental work unless it is accidental. They also don’t cover routine worming and parasite prevention or vaccinations.
Understanding the typical costs of common veterinary procedures can help you plan and ensure your pet receives the necessary care without financial strain. Pet insurance offers a safety net, but it's crucial to read the fine print and understand what is, and isn't, covered. Always consult with your vet and insurance provider to make the best decision for your pet's health and your financial well-being.
If you're considering pet insurance, take the time to compare policies and insurance providers, understand what's covered, and choose the plan that best fits your pet's needs and your budget. Your pet's well-being is worth it.