Vets across the world all say “yes” and this blog will tell you why!
Let’s be honest, caring for any pet can feel like a full-time job, so much so that many pet parents have tricked themselves into believing that indoor pets are easier. Why? Well, because they are literally indoors all day. What kind of trouble can you find when you are inside?
The answer: LOTS! IN fact, your indoor cat needs pet insurance just as much as your outdoor cats too. So, let's avoid falling into the trap of believing this myth. It could cost you your pet and your finances.
If you need a little more proof
I know what you are probably thinking that I live for dramatics. This in part may be true but I am also an avid pet lover and pet insurance advocate. Both of which means that I spend a lot of time studying. I have witnessed, on countless occasions, pet parents panic because they didn’t think that their indoor cat would need medical insurance.
So, to help save you the heartache and chest pains from an extremely high vet bill, I am going to give you a few reasons why your indoor pet needs to be insured like yesterday already.
Reasons why your indoor cat needs insurance
Cats are prone to injury
Okay, yes, your cat has nine lives, but they easily work their way through all of them at a rapid pace. Despite your best efforts to keep them safe, trust me, your cat will get themselves into plenty of mischief… and that doesn’t mean that they always land on their feet.
Remember that cats love to explore, jump, scratch, and that means that the likelihood of injury increases tenfold. This means your cat is likely to sprain its spine, fracture bones or even more. Cats can also experience what is often referred to as ‘kitty concussions’ which is common when your cat falls from great heights or experiences trauma.
Viral infections are real – and common
Yes, just because your cat is indoors doesn’t mean that that they are not exposed to serious infections. In fact, you might have come in contact with another pet whilst you were out and then transmitted it to your cat when you got home. So yes, your cat doesn’t need to be outside to get sick.
Your indoor cat may also be exposed to parasites and certain insects that come into your home. Remember that whole your windows and doors are open, any kind of bug can get in and transmit something to your pet. All of these are extremely costly to deal with at the vet.
Read: 3 essential things every new cat owner needs
There are indoor-related health risks
You absolutely read that correctly. Your indoor cat is still prone to getting certain cat-related illnesses – even in the four walls of your home. For example, your cat is susceptible to urinary issues. Their urethra can get inflamed or filled with blood and mucus.
Biology session aside, urinary issues come with a hefty vet bill. The financial burden on a pet owner is major as the blockages in the urethra have to be cleared repeatedly. Meaning that this will be a regular vet bill for you.
Your cat’s teeth could be an issue
All cats including your indoor cat are prone to experiencing serious dental issues. Now, if I were to ask how often you dedicate time to cleaning and assessing your cat’s dental health, you’ll most likely answer with “not often”. Now I am not trying to pet-shame you.
You need to get into the habit of getting into a preventative dental care strategy. From deep cleans check-ups and potential extractions, you need to prioritise your cat’s teeth. Skipping out on this can affect your pet’s heart as tartar can move into the arteries that go to the heart.
Why pet insurance is the answer to everything
The reality is that there are many costs involved in the health and wellness of your pet. Some you may expect to pay – like food, toys etc. Others, you won’t be able to predict, and those are the medical bills that come along with owning a pet.
However, there is no reason why your pet shouldn’t be able to see a private vet. There is also no need for your pet’s healthcare to wreak havoc on your finances. In order to protect both of these things, all you need is pet insurance. It is the best form of preventive care and routine cover. This way your fur friend is kept safe and so are your finances.
So, if it wasn’t clear already: Get pet insurance for your indoor cat TODAY! You won’t regret it - promise.
Until next time,
The Pet Insurance Team