A new study by Trupanion pet insurance reveals a substantial increase in the number of claims for specialty medicine, suggesting that pet owners are increasingly prioritizing and investing in advanced medical treatments for their beloved animals.
Neurology and cardiology claims experienced the most significant growth. Dentistry and cardiology saw the most notable increases in veterinary fees. “While adjusting prices became necessary to sustain the long-term health and viability of the veterinary industry, the rising cost of care can be a significant concern for pet parents and veterinary professionals alike,” said Margi Tooth, Trupanion’s president and CEO. “Our data shows a notable increase in specialty care claims, demonstrating that pet parents, empowered by high-quality insurance, have continued to prioritize their pet’s health.” The research analyzed data spanning from December 2019 to November 2024.
The study broke down the findings by veterinary specialty for both dogs and cats, highlighting the percentage increase in claims and the most prevalent conditions:
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Neurology:
- Canine: up 47%; primary conditions included meningitis, intervertebral disc disorder (IVDD), and vestibular disease.
- Feline: up 28%; common conditions were IVDD, mass lesions, and hydrocephalus.
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Dermatology:
- Canine: up 41%; the most frequent conditions were mast cell tumors, dermatitis, and pyoderma.
- Feline: up 27%; common conditions were mast cell tumors, anal sac abscesses, and dermatitis.
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Dentistry:
- Canine: up 34%; periodontal disease, dental fractures, and retained deciduous teeth were frequently seen.
- Feline: up 20%; key conditions included periodontal disease, feline odontoclastic resorptive lesions, and dental fractures.
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Cardiology:
- Canine: up 55%; cardiac failure, cardiac dysrhythmias, and systemic hypertension were prominent.
- Feline: up 47%; cardiac failure, hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy, and systemic hypertension were frequently diagnosed.
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Oncology:
- Canine: up 47%; common issues included osteosarcoma, oral melanocytic neoplasms, and gallbladder neoplasms.
“The data speaks for itself,” noted Dr. Steve Weinrauch, Trupanion’s chief product and veterinary officer. “High-quality pet medical insurance is not just about managing costs. It is about investing in the health and well-being of our beloved companions and ensuring they have access to the best possible care, now and in years to come.”
