From arthritis to dental conditions, we reveal the top health concerns for our pets and how to prepare for them.
Our recent survey of 2,000 British pet owners found nearly one in 6 (65%) believe that keeping their pets happy is a top priority, which includes investing in health and wellness.
Over half of us (58%) will be setting new years resolutions for their pet 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 (46%), or brushing their teeth every day to ensure their dental hygiene is intact (24%).
Prevention is better than cure
We reveal our 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.
Top conditions for dogs
- Arthritis - Just like their owners, our dogs can suffer from inflammation of one or more joints making movement difficult and painful
- Skin allergies - A common condition in dogs which can cause inflammation and irritation, leaving pups feeling pretty uncomfortable.
- 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
Top conditions for cats
- 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
- 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.
- 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 bacteria may form deposits of plaque and tartar, which can damage your cat’s gums
Bladder infections and hyperthyroidism topped the records for cats with over £13 million paid out in claims in 2024.
Unsurprisingly, there has been a consistent trend of dental conditions ranking among the top three health claims for both cats and dogs with only 36% of pet owners in the UK considering it is as serious as other more physical conditions.
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
Top Tips for Pet Pawrents
To ensure pet parents can look forward to the future, Cat Henstridge, Veterinary Surgeon, shares her advice on what pet parents can do to try and keep their pets happy and healthy;
- 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.
- 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.
- 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 and vet checks
- 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 pay 97% of all claims received and are committed to supporting pet parents in their quest to keep the UK’s pets healthy and owners happy. With Petplan, not only do you have access to our Pet Expert Chat, but you also benefit from free training advice and support for all. Speak to the veterinary team 24/7 or book a chat with qualified professional at a date and time that suits you.