These 8 Health Problems Result in the Most Pet Insurance Claims

Pet insurance provider PetPlan released a list of its most frequently claimed conditions in 2016 and how much they could cost pet owners—well, those without pet insurance! Each one of these conditions can be linked to obesity, a common problem that affects more than half of all pets.

Since obesity is preventable, make slimming down a priority for your pup in 2017. Doing so will not only improve his overall quality of life, but could help cut down on incidents of these top health threats (not to mention save you a boatload of money in the long run!).

1. and 2. Vomiting and diarrhea

These two issues combined took the No. 1 spot yet again on Petplan’s list of most commonly claimed conditions, with an average of 900 claims a month. Overeating and eating the wrong things can lead to major stomach upset. The average vet bill for vomiting and diarrhea is $850.

3. Cancer

Some studies suggest that that certain cancers might occur more frequently in overweight or obese pets. The average bill for cancer is steep: $2,033.

4. Limping

Limping (called “lameness” in vet speak) is frequently caused by arthritis — the heavier your dog is, the worse off his joints will be. The average cost for treating lameness is no joke: $966.

5. Knee injuries

Overweight dogs are also at higher risk for cranial cruciate ligament injuries. At an average $3,480 to repair, CCL injuries will hit your wallet hard.

Bassett Hounds have a higher risk for intervertebral disc disease. (Bassett Hound by Shutterstock)

6. UTIs

Who knew obese dogs were at higher risk for urinary tract infections? The bill for treatment is $590.

7. Cardiac disease

Like obese people, overweight animals generally suffer from high blood pressure, poor organ function, and reduced activity, all of which contribute to cardiac disease. The cost of treatment averages $1,232.

8. Intervertebral disc disease

Certain breeds like Basset Hounds and Dachshunds are already prone to developing back problems. The more they weigh, the worse it can be. The cost of treating intervertebral disc disease? A whopping $2,014. Yikes!

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