The most expensive dog and cat health issues of 2025

Dogs and cats rely on us to keep them healthy, comfortable and safe. While each species has its own unique risks, many foundations of good health are the same: smart daily habits, good nutrition and regular veterinary care. Let’s take a look at the most expensive conditions based on Fetch pet insurance claims in 2025, and how you can keep your pet safe between vet visits.  

Urinary Issues (cats)

$3.6M in total paid Fetch claims in 2025

Urinary issues are among the most common medical emergencies in cats, especially males. Conditions like feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD), bladder stones and urinary blockages can be painful and life-threatening. Here are some tips that can help you avoid or identify issues early:

• Encourage your cat’s hydration with watery foods, fountains and multiple bowls.
• Feed your cat a balanced diet or a urinary-support diet if recommended by your vet.
• Reduce your cat’s stress with a routine, an appropriate number of clean litter boxes and quiet spaces.
• Monitor your pet for straining, bleeding or frequent trips to the box.

Dental problems (cats & dogs)

$11.1M in total paid Fetch claims in 2025

Dental health is a critical but often overlooked area for pets. Dental disease affects over 70% of pets by age 3. Poor dental health doesn’t just cause bad breath — it can lead to pain, tooth loss and even heart and kidney disease. Here are a few prevention tips: 

• Brush your pet’s teeth daily to reduce plaque, which forms just hours after eating. 
• Use vet-approved dental chews or toys to help remove plaque and tartar.
• Schedule professional anesthesia-based dental cleanings for your pet.
• Avoid hard items that can break teeth like bones, antlers and hard nylon chews.

Accidents (cats & dogs)

$13.4M in total paid Fetch claims in 2025

Accidents are a major cause of injury in dogs and cats, but many are preventable. Taking simple precautions greatly reduces the risk of trauma, poisoning and lost pets. Here are a few ways you can help prevent accidents:

• Keep your dog leashed and ensure their collar and harness fits appropriately. 
• Provide safe enrichment and supervise multi-pet play.
• Keep toxic plants, harmful objects and household substances out of reach. 
• Keep pet identification, like ID tags and microchips, up to date.

Cancer (cats & dogs)

$19M in total paid Fetch claims in 2025

Cancer is unavoidable in most cases, but some risks can be reduced. Monitoring also matters when it comes to improving health outcomes.

• Spay/neuter at recommended times (this reduces risk of reproductive cancers and conditions).
• Ensure your pet maintains a lean, healthy body weight.
• Avoid exposing your pet to smoke, pesticides and harsh chemicals.
• Vaccinate at-risk cats for the Feline Leukemia virus (FeLV).
• Perform monthly “lump checks” at home, being sure to note any skin changes.
• Schedule annual veterinary exams, or twice yearly exams for senior pets.

Musculoskeletal diseases (dogs)

$24.7M in total paid Fetch claims in 2025

Joint problems like arthritis, hip dysplasia and ligament injuries are common, especially in aging or large-breed dogs. Prevention starts early and continues throughout life.

• Keep your dog at a healthy weight to protect joints.
• Offer your pup regular, low-impact exercise (like walks or swimming).
• Avoid overexertion in puppies and high-impact activities.
• Consider joint-support supplements with vet guidance.
• Choose responsible breeders who screen for joint diseases.

Digestive Issues (cats & dogs)

$29.2M in total paid Fetch claims in 2025

Digestive issues in dogs can range from mild upset to severe, life-threatening illness. Food indiscretion (eating things they shouldn’t) accounts for a surprising number of emergency vet visits, but there’s a lot you can control.

• Feed your pet a consistent, high-quality diet and avoid sudden diet changes.
• Avoid giving your pet table scraps and keep trash secure.
• Use monthly preventives to help protect your pet against intestinal worms.
• Keep string, ribbon and other small objects out of reach, especially for cats.
• Don’t let your dog eat random things outside. Grass, sticks, dead animals and unknown substances can lead to illness or injury.

A healthy pet doesn’t just happen naturally. Your pet’s health is built through daily habits, thoughtful nutrition, a safe environment and regular veterinary care. Pets (especially cats) are great at hiding illness, so prevention is key.

Based on 2025 Fetch policy and claims data through 12.12.25.