Forget Armageddon, pet owners worry most about the health of their four-legged pals
Global disasters, juggling a work/life balance and fears for their own health aren't keeping pet parents awake at night. Instead, they are more worried about how healthy their animals will be in the future.
Incredibly when asked what they dread most, 69% of pet owners said it was the thought of their furry friends becoming ill.
In contrast, just over half (52%) cited their own health, maintaining a work/life balance (30%) and world affairs (26%).
In York, a stunning 93% said they put their pet's health above everything else. So worried are the nation's animal lovers that over half (58%) of 2,000 British adults polled by leading pet insurer Petplan have drawn up a list of resolutions this month, not for themselves but for their pets.
This includes daily teeth brushing for 24%, more exercise to keep joints healthy and mobile for 48% and almost half (46%) are putting their animals on a new diet to reduce the chances of developing a bladder infection.
While 70% of pet owners know the importance of regular check-ups and vaccinations, a similar amount (71%) are now taking a proactive approach to keeping pets healthy and happy. Over a third (39%) are adding natural nutritional supplements to diets and 7% have even treated their pets to hydrotherapy sessions.
On average, they are spending £300 a year on preventative treatment - which rises to an incredible £2,000 in Middlesbrough.
Data from the insurer reveals a huge rise of 168% in obesity-related claims such as arthritis in dogs between 2020 and 2024. A record £13 million was paid out last year alone for claims related to bladder infections and hyperthyroidism in cats.
Claims for treatment for dental conditions complete the top three, although only 36% of pet owners recognise how important their pet's dental health is.
Petplan predicts the most common health problems likely to send your furry friends to the vet in 2025, and shares advice on how pet parents can support their animals and make sure they get the best care possible.
Dogs:
1. Arthritis: Just like their owners, our dogs can suffer from inflammation of one or more joints making movement difficult and painful.
2. Skin allergies: A common condition in dogs which can cause inflammation and irritation, leaving pups feeling uncomfortable.
3. Dental conditions such as gum disease: Just like us, dogs and cats are susceptible to teeth and gum problems, including plaque build-up, periodontal disease, cavities and gingivitis.
Cats:
1. Hyperthyroidism: When the glands become overactive, this is a common hormonal condition in cats. A large number of cases are due to a benign (non-cancerous) swelling in the gland itself.
2. Bladder infections: Cystitis, an inflammation of the bladder, is a common condition in cats and often something that felines can suffer bouts of on a reoccurring basis.
3. Dental conditions such as gingivitis: Periodontal disease is caused by the bacteria present in your cat's mouth. If it's not cleaned away regularly, this bacterium may form deposits of plaque and tartar, which can damage your cat's gums.
Vet surgeon Cat Henstridge shares her advice on what pet parents can do to try and keep their pets happy and healthy:
1. Keep your pet slim: Being a healthy weight has a hugely positive impact on your pet's health. It reduces the chances and severity of many diseases and can even give them a longer life as well.
2. Remember, pets aren't people: We love our pets and often treat them (of course!) as a member of the family but it's important to recognise they do have different needs and wants to us humans. Learning about and providing these can go a long way to preventing health issues, particularly behavioural ones.
3. Look after their teeth: With dental problems being so prevalent in our pets, caring for their teeth is incredibly important. We can use mouthwashes, powders, special chews and biscuits but there really is no substitute for regular brushing.
4. Regular vet checks: It is absolutely vital for all of our pet's health, not just their teeth, that they have regular check-ups with your vet. At least annually but ideally more frequently, especially as they get older.
To find out more, please visit: https://www.petplan.co.uk/pet-information/blog/predicted-health-concerns-2025/.