The most common pet illnesses—and what they cost to treat in the US
The cost of a visit to the veterinarian can range from $50 to thousands of dollars in the US, depending on the case. Here’s what pet owners need to know.
Owning a pet comes with joy, companionship—and unexpected costs. In the US, 66% of households, or more than 86 million families, have a pet, according to the 2023-2024 National Pet Owners Survey. One of the most significant expenses pet owners face is veterinary care, which can quickly add up depending on the condition being treated.
Vet visits can start at $50 for a routine checkup but skyrocket into the thousands for serious conditions. Understanding the most common pet illnesses—and their average treatment costs—can help pet owners prepare for potential expenses and ensure their furry companions receive the best care possible.
A recent analysis by Nationwide, a leading pet insurance provider, reveals the top health issues affecting dogs and cats, along with the financial burden associated with their treatment.
“From itchy skin to upset stomachs, the most common health issues affecting pets are the ones veterinarians see every day,” says Dr. Emily Tincher, Chief Veterinary Officer at Nationwide. "When a pet is diagnosed with a chronic condition, the financial impact can be just as worrying as the diagnosis itself. Many of these conditions require ongoing care, with costs increasing significantly over time. Understanding potential health risks and planning ahead can help pet parents navigate these challenges and ensure their pets receive the care they need."
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The most common dog illnesses—and their costs
For dogs, skin allergies top the list of most frequently diagnosed conditions, followed by gastroenteritis, ear infections, osteoarthritis, and trauma. Here’s a breakdown of the top 10 ailments and their average treatment costs:
- Skin allergies – $265
- Gastroenteritis – $702
- Ear infections (otitis externa) – $304
- Osteoarthritis – $414
- Trauma – $708
- Dental disease – $1,284
- Urinary tract infections – $533
- Heart valve disease – $553
- Liver disease – $499
- Kidney failure – $575
Chronic conditions like allergies, arthritis, heart disease, liver disease, and kidney failure make up half of the list, meaning ongoing medical costs for affected dogs can be substantial.
The most common cat illnesses—and their costs
For cats, gastrointestinal issues, including diarrhea and gastroenteritis, are the most common health problems, followed by urinary tract disease, kidney failure, and dental disease. The top 10 feline illnesses and their average treatment costs include:
Gastroenteritis – $802
- Urinary tract disease – $943
- Kidney failure – $655
- Dental disease – $1,517
- Osteoarthritis – $439
- Hyperthyroidism – $511
- Inflammatory bowel disease – $828
- Diabetes mellitus – $850
- Respiratory infections – $534
- Skin allergies – $318
Six out of these 10 conditions—kidney disease, arthritis, hyperthyroidism, inflammatory bowel disease, diabetes, and skin allergies—are chronic, meaning long-term veterinary expenses for cat owners.
Planning for your pet’s health care costs
Given that many of these conditions require ongoing treatment, pet owners should consider planning ahead for potential medical expenses. Pet insurance, emergency savings, and preventative care can all help mitigate financial strain while ensuring pets get the care they need.
For more information on pet health and veterinary costs, visit Nationwide Pet HealthZone.
Original article written by Daniela Barrera, translated with the assistance of AI and edited by Greg Heilman.
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