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Pet Insurance Statistics & Top 10 Insurance Companies Australia

Alice Nguyen | 25 August, 2022


          
            Woman hugging dog

Australia's unique fauna includes chatty cockatoos to wobbly wombats, making our animal companions as diverse as our wildlife. But regarding pets, Aussies are not just about cute and cuddly. They are serious about keeping their furry, feathered, and scaly friends healthy and happy.

This article is about pet insurance statistics in Australia. The latest stats and trends show how locals are increasingly investing in their pets' well-being. We will focus on the rising coverage rates and trend claims, highlighting how pets of all shapes and sizes are cherished in Australia.

Understanding the Growth of Pet Insurance in Australia

Pet healthcare costs are rising, reflecting how Australians increasingly view their pets as well-loved family members. According to a study by HCT, Australia's largest not-for-profit health fund, 80% of pet owners express concerns about the rising pet care costs. The findings reveal that four out of five pet owners need help managing their pets' expenses.

This financial strain has increased the demand for pet insurance, covering everything from routine vet checks to unexpected emergencies. Pet insurance protects pets and offers peace of mind and financial security for pet owners. 

Market Growth and Popularity

Source: RSPCA

Australia has an estimated 28.7 million pets, recognised as one of the world's highest pet ownership rates. About 69% of households have pets, with dogs leading at 48% and cats at 33%. This love for pets has driven a growing pet care market, including insurance. While the exact number of insured pets in Australia is not publicly available, estimates suggest that around 7.1% of dogs and 5.3% of cats are insured.

Reasons for Pet Owners Choosing Insurance

The increasing demand for pet insurance in Australia can be due to several factors:

Rising Vet Visit Costs

Australian vet clinics provide advanced treatments and technologies, ensuring pets receive the best healthcare, but these innovations come at a cost. As pets age, they often suffer from age-related illnesses and conditions, increasing the need for regular vet care. Coupled with general inflation and the rising operational expenses for clinics, these factors contribute to the increasing fees for vet services.

Peace of Mind

Pet insurance offers financial protection for emergencies such as accidents, sudden illnesses, and long-term health issues. Chronic illnesses such as diabetes, kidney disease, or arthritis need ongoing treatment, making pet insurance critical for managing the high costs of vet care.

Changing Pet Ownership Trends

Many Australians consider their pets cherished family members and are willing to invest in their well-being. A survey of around 6,000 people found that 52% think pets are family members, while 41% view pets as close friends. This mindset and the increasing number of pet owners have triggered a higher demand for vet services and a rise in pet insurance costs.

Government Policies and Industry Initiatives

The lack of government subsidies for vet care in Australia makes pet insurance a good option for pet owners. In response to this absence, pet insurance providers have stepped up their marketing efforts, educating the public on the advantages of having coverage, further driving the appeal of pet insurance.

Essential Pet Insurance Statistics Every Australian Should Know

With the rising costs inveterinary care, dog and cat insurance statistics offer valuable insights into the increasing trend of protecting pets.

Percentage of Pets with Insurance Coverage

The exact number of insured pets is unavailable, but it is estimated that around 7% of dogs and 5.3% of cats are insured. These figures translate to around 383,400 insured dogs and 265,000 insured cats. Consequently, a significant majority of pets remain uninsured. Recent data reveals that despite the uptake of pet insurance, 73% of Australian pets remain uninsured.

Breakdown by Pet Type

The Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) Survey has included questions about pet ownership in their recent study. The survey revealed that around two-thirds of Australians have at least one pet. It also revealed the types of pets that Australian households prefer:

  • Dogs: Around 72% of Australian pet owners own dogs. 
  • Cats: About 37% of pet owners have cats
  • Fish: 18% of pet owners prefer fish as pets. 
  • Birds: 16% of Australian pet owners keep birds.
  • Horses: Around 3.5% of pet owners have horses.
  • Others: 17% of pet owners own other types of pets, such as small mammals, reptiles, and amphibians.

Most Common Claims

Common pet insurance claims typically involve conditions and treatments pet owners encounter as their pets age or face health emergencies. Understanding the most common claims can help owners prepare for unexpected costs and ensure enough coverage.

  • Accidents and injuries:Coverage for fractures, wounds, and trauma from accidents, including broken bones or fall injuries.
  • Cancer treatment: Claims related to chemotherapy, surgery, and other therapies for pets diagnosed with cancer.
  • Chronic illness: Coverage for long-term treatment for diabetes, arthritis, and other chronic conditions requiring medications and ongoing care.
  • Dental care: Claims for dental treatments, including cleanings, extractions, and periodontal disease treatments.
  • Skin conditions: Claims associated with skin problems such as hot spots, infections, or allergies.
  • Surgery: Costs of surgeries, including spaying or neutering and removal of foreign objects.
  • Diagnostic tests: Veterinary insurance coverage for diagnostic procedures such as X-rays, blood works, MRIs, etc.

Awareness of the most common claims can help pet owners make informed decisions about coverage. They can ensure their pets receive the best care whenever needed.

Breaking Down the Costs of Pet Insurance in Australia

Understanding the cost of pet insurance in Australia involves several factors influencing premiums and coverage options. These factors can help you find the best insurance according to your pet's needs and level of protection.

Average Premium Costs

The average monthly cost of pet insurance in Australia ranges from$20 to $60, depending on the pet's age, breed, and health condition. Your premium can be more or less, so it's best to compare pet insurance costs from different providers to get the best rate.

Factors Influencing Premiums

The cost of pet insurance premiums is driven by the pet's breed, age, location, and coverage level. Let's examine each one.

Breed

Certain dog and cat breeds are more prone to health issues and, thus, are more costly to insure. For example, Bulldogs and Pugs are susceptible to respiratory problems, while golden retrievers have a higher risk for hip dysplasia. Some breeds also require specialised medications and treatments, which increase the overall cost of their care.

Age

Older pets are at a higher risk for developing health issues such as diabetes, heart disease, and bone issues. They may need more frequent check-ups and vaccinations, contributing to expensive premiums.

Location

Pet owners in urban areas face higher costs of vet services and pet insurance premiums. Also, certain regions have a higher risk for accidents and diseases, influencing premium pricing.

Coverage Levels

Comprehensive policies offer wider coverage for conditions including illnesses, accidents, and surgeries, which translates to higher premium costs. Coverage with a higher excess amount lowers premiums, as pet owners will pay more out of their pockets. Lastly, policies with higher benefit limits generally have higher premiums.

Out-of-Pocket Veterinary Costs Without Insurance

Out-of-pocket vet costs without insurance can add up, especially in emergencies or in treatments for chronic conditions. Pet insurance can greatly reduce the financial burden of health treatments and offer peace of mind for unexpected issues.

  • Emergency care: Emergency surgeries can cost thousands of dollars without pet insurance! Meanwhile, insurance covers a significant portion of the cost after the deductible.
  • Chronic illnesses: Managing conditions such as diabetes or arthritis result in high ongoing expenses without coverage. Insurance shoulders these regular treatment costs.
  • Routine care: Pet vaccinations and other preventive treatments are expensive for uninsured pet owners. Insurance provides partial or full coverage and can save on routine care.

How Pet Insurance Benefits Australian Pet Owners

The benefits of pet insurance for dogs, cats, and other types of pets go beyond financial protection. Insurance offers peace of mind and access to timely care. 

Pet insurance helps provide the best care without hesitation by covering a range of treatments, especially during emergencies or chronic health conditions.

Financial Protection Against Unexpected Costs

Pet insurance protects against unexpected vet expenses, ensuring pet owners are not caught off guard by the high costs of treatments and medicines. 

During emergencies such as critical illnesses or accidents, pet insurance can cover a significant portion of the expenses, reducing financial strain. Pet owners can focus on their pet's recovery rather than worrying about how to afford the needed care.

Coverage for Routine and Preventative Care

Most pet insurance plans provide optional add-ons for routine and preventive care, ensuring pets stay healthy and protected. Add-ons include coverage for vaccination, flea and tick treatments, and annual wellness exams, greatly reducing out-of-pocket costs for regular care. 

Meanwhile, some policies cover dental and other preventive treatments, helping maintain oral health and prevent more complex issues.

Peace of Mind for Pet Owners

Pet insurance offers peace of mind, reducing the stress of managing unexpected expenses. Knowing available financial support allows pet owners to focus on their pet's well-being during illness or emergencies.

Popular Pet Insurance Providers

Get the best coverage for your pet by comparing providers. Here are ten of the best pet insurance providers in Australia.

1. RSPCA

RSPCA Insurance has General, Economy, Ultimate, and Ultimate Plus plans that cover up to 80% of eligible bills to any registered vet clinics and hospitals in Australia. Pet owners don't need to worry about excess payments. 

You also get one year's worth of premiums to support needy animals. Visit the RSPCA website to learn more about their plans and get a free quote.

2. Medibank

Medibank gives new members a 16% off on their first year! You can choose from their three plans to cover specified accidental injuries and illnesses and optional routine and preventative treatments. You can pick any vet to treat your pet, and they offer multiple discounts. Check Medibank's official website to find out more.

3. Woolworths

Woolworths offers multi-level coverage, from basic to comprehensive plus care. Choose the right level of coverage by looking at their comparison table. If you're a Woolworths patron, you're guaranteed free access to Vetassist, an online consultation platform to reach a licensed vet easily. They also have GapOnly to help review and calculate your claims at the vet.

4. Pet Insurance Australia

Pet Insurance Australia gives pet owners a broad range of cover options, including pet essentials and comprehensive and major medical covers. You can select the policy option you prefer or choose how much coverage you need (from 80% to 90%). Pet Insurance Australia also gives away two months free when you sign up today.

5. Coles

Beyond groceries,Coles has expanded into the pet insurance industry, offering Australians a range of policies. You can get up to 100% reimbursement on eligible expenses. Visit Coles's website for the best coverage for your pets' needs.

6. Petsy

Inspired by Australian pet owners,Petsy offers amazing benefits, starting with a 90% reimbursement and a $25,000 benefit limit with no annual excess. They also provide transparent pet insurance plans with flexible coverage options to help pet owners protect their companions.

7. Budget Direct

Budget Direct offers affordable pet insurance options. They are unique from other providers because they cover all orthopaedic conditions. Budget Direct can reimburse up to 80% of eligible vet bills, and you can save up to 15% of your premiums when you sign up online!

8. Kogan

Kogan is a well-known online shopping site that has expanded into pet insurance. They offer three coverage levels and 80% reimbursement on eligible vet bills. Sign up today for your first month for free and enjoy $10 off at Kogan.com every month.

9. PetSecure

PetSecure is a trusted name in the pet insurance industry. They offer straightforward coverage for injuries due to accidents and illnesses. Plus, you'll have options for 75% or 85% reimbursement on eligible treatments. PetSecure plans also cover chronic conditions and optional wellness care.

10. Bow Wow Meow

Bow Wow Meow is the insurance that cares for your pet! It started in 1995, offering personalised pet tags that can be clipped onto your NALZO dog collars and harnesses. Bow Wow Meow offers up to 80% reimbursement on eligible bills with flexible limits and no excess charges.

Emerging Trends Redefining Australia's Pet Insurance Industry

Pet insurance trends in Australia reflect the changing needs of pet owners and the amazing advances in veterinary care. These trends shape the insurance industry to provide more customised, accessible, and comprehensive pet coverage in Australia.

Emerging Insurance Products

Pet insurance providers now offer specialised policies to cover exotic pets such as reptiles, small mammals, and birds. These policies account for the unique healthcare needs of these animals and thus come with potentially high costs.

Also, breed-specific insurance policies are becoming available. Breeds with genetic predispositions to certain health issues benefit from customised coverage that addresses their special needs. For example, pet insurance for a Golden Retriever may include coverage for illnesses such as hip dysplasia. 

Impact of Rising Veterinary Costs

The rising cost of veterinary care has significantly increased the demand for pet insurance. Medical advancements have led to more updated and sophisticated treatments, and pet owners now turn to insurance to avoid unexpected expenses for accidents and serious illnesses.

Technology in Pet Insurance

Technology is dramatically changing the pet insurance industry. Mobile apps and digital platforms are making claims processes simpler and more accessible for pet owners. They can submit claims, track coverage, and access information through mobile apps. Here are other technological advancements in the industry:

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. What percentage of pets in Australia have insurance?

The exact percentage of insured pets in Australia may vary, but it's estimated that around 27% of dogs and 20% of cats are currently insured.

2. How much does pet insurance cost in Australia?

Australia’s average monthly cost for pet insurance ranges from $20 to $60, according to the pet's age, breed, and health condition. 

3. Is pet insurance worth it?

Pet insurance is worth it for many pet owners as it offers financial security and ensures pets get necessary care without delay. Insurance covers unexpected medical costs and provides optional preventative care.

4. What does pet insurance typically cover?

Pet insurance typically covers a range of medical expenses, including:

  • Illnesses such as infections,chronic diseases, and cancer.
  • Accidents with treatment for fractures, wounds, andswallowed objects.
  • Surgery, including emergency and non-emergency procedures.
  • Hospitalisations for overnight stays and monitoring.
  • Medications, including prescription drugs, are used to treat various conditions.
  • Diagnostic tests such as X-rays, bloodwork, and other imaging tests.
  • Optional routine care, including vaccinations, wellness checks, anddental care.

Your Pet Deserves The Best Care!

Understanding pet insurance statistics helps pet owners make informed decisions about their health and well-being. With specific coverage for illnesses, accidents, and optional care, pet insurance alleviates the financial burden of vet treatments. 

Ensuring access to necessary therapies without hesitation allows pet owners to focus on providing the best care for their pets. Study and compare pet insurance coverage to ensure your pet's security and wellness for years.