Savings available for early birds

Posted : 12-04-2005

Pet owners have been advised that they could save 50 per cent on cover by purchasing insurance while their pet is still young.

Insurance premiums are lower for younger pets as they are seen to be at a lower risk of contracting ill health and the premium will generally remain constant as the animal ages and requires increased care.

MyFinances.co.uk reports a range of insurers will not insure a dog or a cat over the age of eight and firms that do so may charge double to cover a cat over the age of eight - compared to insure a four-year-old cat.

With UK vet bills reportedly increasing by 11 per cent each year, insurance is a necessity for pet owners.

However Sainsbury's Bank urges consumers to carefully study the content of their policies as some providers will not pay for the treatment of chronic complaints.

"Unfortunately pet owners often only realise their policy's failings when they come to claim. Reviewing your policy and comparing the cover with other products and switching if necessary should be done as soon as possible before it's too late," said David Pickett, Sainsbury's Bank pet insurance manager.

Saga estimates that it can cost £1,000 to treat a cat with a broken leg.

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