The Cost Of Veterinary Treatment In The UK

Saga Pet Insurance has published a table of average vet bills by region across the UK. Based on an analysis of actual pet insurance claims from April 2006 to July 2007, the results reveal some marked differences in fees by region. They also highlight a surprising difference in the costs of treating cats compared to dogs..

As we might expect, the South East is the most expensive part of the country for pet owners who may have to take their animals to the vet - the average vet bill in the South East is £98.64 (30%) more expensive than in the cheapest region, Wales.

Regionally, the South East (£347.89) is the most expensive area to be a dog owner and the North West for a cat owner (£321.36). In contrast Wales (£227.24) has the cheapest vet fees for a dog and the South West (£209.14) for a cat.

By region, average vet bills per area are:

DOG			CAT
Rank	Region	Average Cost	Rank	Region	Average Cost
1	South East	£347.89	1	North West	£321.36
2	South West	£327.03	2	East Anglia	£278.17
3	East Anglia	£324.80	3	South East	£265.58
4	North East	£320.69	4	North East	£254.79
5	Scotland	£302.88	5	Wales	£246.28
6	North West	£300.93	6	Scotland	£226.33
7	Midlands	£268.72	7	Midlands	£217.80
8	Wales	£227.24	8	South West	£209.14

So, where you live could dramatically affect the amount you pay. And it is interesting to note that in 3 out of 8 regions Saga reports that the average treatment costs for cats are more expensive than those for dogs.

With ever more sophisticated technology and procedures being used to treat our pets, the costs have considerably increased, meaning owners are sometimes having to dig deep to come to their pet's rescue. These days an owner can expect to pay up to £4,000 if their pet fractures a bone and up to £10,000 over several years if their pet has a more complicated condition like a tumour or spinal disorder.

Data published courtesy of Saga Pet Insurance.