If you think that your indoor cat does not need pet insurance, then think again. Indoor cats are exposed to unexpected risks and can suffer from various health issues. Read on to discover the top 6 reasons you need to get your indoor cat the pet cover he or she needs.

You might be thinking that as the proud paw parent of an indoor cat, your precious feline family member is exposed to far fewer risks than those of an outdoor cat. And in some way, you’re right.

The life of your indoor cat is safer than those of an outdoor cat who is typically faced with dodging wildlife, traffic and the neighbourhood bullies.

But, indoor cats also still suffer from expensive medical and health issues too. Some of these are similar to those seen in outdoor cats.

Here are the top reasons why you need pet cover for your indoor cat:

1. Illnesses and sickness are more common than accidents

Although your indoor cat is less likely to be involved in an accident, accidents only account for a very small portion of the issues that indoor or outdoor cats experience.

Illnesses account for a large number of medical costs, and in some cases, the risk of illness is higher in indoor cats.

Let’s look at an example…

Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease is commonly seen in indoor cats. The issue causes issues with urinating and can often result in pain.

This condition tends to affect males more than females. Your cat’s diet is a major risk factor.

Some experts and studies suggest that outdoor cats are less at risk of this disease as they are frequently urinating to mark their territory. This frequent urination lowers the risk of tiny stones causing urinary obstruction.

2. Kidney failure in ageing cats

Kidney failure is a common issue in older cats. If diagnosed early, it can be treated. A blood test can detect any kidney issues.

However, owners of indoor cats are often reluctant to take their indoor cat for preventative and routine check-ups, unless they notice a clearly evident issue.

Pet insurance, depending on what plan and type of cover you have chosen, allows you to pursue any issues in your cat’s behaviour and also covers you for routine care costs.

In fact, one insurer, Oneplan Pet Insurance, even pays you before you see the vet.

3. Cancer affects both indoor and outdoor cats

Like kidney failure, cancer can occur in both indoor and outdoor cats.

The truth is, the majority of disease in cats have little to do with whether your cat spends her days lounging on her favourite chair inside or exploring the great outdoors of your garden.

The issue with cats and diseases is that our feline family members are very good at hiding their symptoms and will often appear as though they are in good health until the disease reaches its final stages.

However, cancer can be treated, at a cost. The costs of tumour removal and cancer treatment could cost R40 000 or more. If you find yourself in a situation where your vet bill is this high, then you might be faced with the choice of debt or euthanasia.

In my opinion, no one should ever have to end their pet’s life because they cannot afford the vet bill.

4. Cats are naturally inquisitive creatures

As a cat owner, this is something you know to be 100% true.

Cats are inquisitive by nature and even indoor cats might get themselves into trouble. Your cat might swallow something causing a foreign body obstruction or he might knock something over and hurt himself.

The fact remains, there are health risks for both indoor and outdoor cats.

5. Toxic household flowers and plants 

If you live in an apartment, then you might enjoy the serenity and beauty of indoor plants. However, a large number of plants are toxic to cats. Some might cause mild reactions such as diarrhoea and vomiting, others, such as Lillies, can be life-threatening.

This means that immediate and aggressive medical attention is needed to save her life.

Of course, there are also foods in your home that are toxic to your cat. Check out the list here.

6. Pet insurance gives you financial protection for illnesses and accidents

Insurance for your pet’s health was designed to help cover the costs of a large number of accidents and illnesses that affect any cat.

You might think that your cat is in perfect health right now, and that may be true, but you never know what could happen tomorrow or a few months from now.

If your cat is older, then she will be particularly prone to health issues such as kidney problems and cancer. Younger cats tend to be more inquisitive and can land up in tricky situations after having swallowed something they shouldn’t have or knocking something over and hurting themselves.

Thus, pet insurance gives you the peace of mind you (and your wallet) need. Having pet healthcare cover will also help cover the costs of routine care and improve the overall health and wellbeing of your cat.

If you’ve got some extra time and want to have a good laugh, then check out this blog post on funny things only cat owners will understand.

Until next time,

The Pet Insurance Team