New research from the UK’s leading pet insurer, Petplan, has today revealed that over half (58%) of UK pet pawrents are cautiously planning for their pets’ future. In fact 12% are more concerned for their pets’ future, than their partners’, friends’ (8%), or even their parents (7%).
Despite worrying about their own health (52%) work life balance (30%), or the state of the world (26%), the biggest concern facing pet parents when it comes to that of the future, is their pets’ health (69%). Interestingly, those in York are so conscious of their pets’ health, a whopping 93% put their pet’s health above everything else.
Over half of us (58%) will be setting resolutions for our pets this month to ensure they stay healthy and just as importantly, happy. This includes increasing their exercise to keep joints healthy and mobile (48%), adopting a new diet to reduce the chances of a bladder infection (46%), or brushing their teeth every day to ensure their dental hygiene is intact (24%).
On average, UK pet owners are spending more than £300 a year on preventative treatments. But it seems pet parents in Middlesborough are going the extra mile by spending over £2000 a year on their pet’s health!
And while 70% agree that regular check-ups and vaccinations are essential to prevent illnesses, a similar percentage (71%) believe that a proactive approach is just as important. Over a third have trialled several approaches such as natural nutritional supplements (39%) and hydrotherapy (7%). In reality, a huge 83% of British pet parents aged 18-34 in particular, confess that they could be doing more to protect their pets for what’s to come.
Petplan, the UK’s No1. pet insurer, is revealing their predictions for the most common health problems likely to send your furry friends to the vet in 2025, and sharing advice on how pet owners can support their pets 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, 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 cats 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
Petplan data reveals that there has been a rise in obesity related claims such as arthritis, with claims for dogs increasing by 168% between 2020 and 2024. As well as this, Bladder infections and hyperthyroidism topped the records for cats with over £13 million paid out in claims in 2024.
There has also been a consistent trend of dental conditions ranking among the top three health claims for both cats and dogs. This is unsurprising since only 36% pet owners in the UK consider this as a top concern for their pets’ health. Unlike a lot of pet insurers, Petplan cover for dental injuries and illness as standard because they know that your pet’s teeth and gums are a crucial part of their health.
Joanna Maclennan, Head of Brand at Petplan says: “It is great to see that preventative care for our pets has become such a priority for pet owners and that most are already taking steps to ensure their pets are living healthier lives than ever before.”
“However as great as it is to see these preventative measures being taken, it is important to remember that this can only go so far and unfortunately some conditions can’t be prevented – just like in humans. Its therefore essential to ensure you have funds in place to cover the cost of unexpected vet bills. Having Petplan insurance can help you get the best care for your pet. We can pay your vet directly and we never charge customers more for claiming providing welcome financial support at what is often a very worrying time..”
“Our predictions for 2025 show the range of ailments that can arise for our furry companions. In addition to paying treatment costs, we’re here to support with a number of tools. From first-class pet care advice, to free 24/7 video vet calls for Petplan customers we are here to help keep the nations pets healthy and make sure pet parents are set up for whatever the future holds.”
Cat Henstridge, Veterinary Surgeon, 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 mouth washes, 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.
Petplan is committed to supporting pet parents in their quest to keep the UK’s pets healthy and owners happy, which is why they design their policies to pay out and pay 97% of all the claims they receive. For more information, visit https://www.petplan.co.uk/pet-information/blog/predicted-health-concerns-2025/
