UK’s largest fears revealed as pets’ well being is precedence over every thing else
Pet owners in the UK have revealed their biggest fears – and it’s not global disasters, juggling a work/life balance and fears for their own health that’s keeping them awake at night
Global catastrophes, maintaining a work-life balance, and personal health concerns aren’t the primary worries keeping pet owners up at night. Instead, they are more concerned about their pets’ future health.
Astonishingly, when asked about their greatest fear, 69% of pet owners said it was the thought of their furry companions falling ill. This is in stark contrast to just over half (52%) who cited their own health, work-life balance (30%), and global issues (26%).
In York, a whopping 93% prioritised their pet’s health above all else. The nation’s animal lovers are so concerned that over half (58%) of 2,000 British adults have made resolutions this month, not for themselves but for their furry friends. This is according to leading pet insurer Petplan which carried out the survey.
These include daily teeth brushing for 24%, increased exercise for 48% to maintain healthy and mobile joints, and nearly half (46%) are changing their pets’ diet to lower the risk of bladder infections. While 70% of pet owners understand the importance of regular check-ups and vaccinations, a similar number (71%) are now taking proactive measures to keep their pets healthy and happy.
Over a third (39%) are adding natural nutritional supplements to diets and 7% have even treated their pets to hydrotherapy sessions. On average, they are spending £300 a year on preventative treatment – which rises to £2,000 in Middlesbrough.
Data from Petplan, the UK’s leading pet insurer, reveals a massive increase of 168% in obesity-related claims.
Claims such as arthritis in dogs have seen a significant increase between 2020 and 2024. A staggering £13m was paid out last year alone for claims related to bladder infections and hyperthyroidism in cats.
Dental conditions round off the top three, with Petplan being one of the few insurers to cover dental conditions and injuries as standard. Shockingly, only 36% of pet parents recognise the importance of their pet’s dental health.
‘Most common problems’
Petplan has predicted the most common health problems likely to send your furry friends to the vet in 2025, and shares advice on how pet owners can support their pets and ensure they receive the best care possible. For dogs, these include arthritis, skin allergies, and dental conditions like gum disease.
For cats, hyperthyroidism and bladder infections are among the most common issues. Dental conditions such as gingivitis – Periodontal disease is caused by the bacteria present in your cat’s mouth. If it’s not cleaned away regularly, this bacterium may form deposits of plaque and tartar, which can damage your cat’s gums.
Vet surgeon Cat Henstridge shares her advice on what pet parents can do to try and keep their pets happy and healthy:.
1. Keep your pet slim – Being a healthy weight has a hugely positive impact on your pet’s health. It reduces the chances and severity of many diseases and can even give them a longer life as well.
2. Remember, pets aren’t people – We love our pets and often treat them (of course!) as a member of the family but it’s important to recognise they do have different needs and wants to us humans. Learning about and providing these can go a long way to preventing health issues, particularly behavioural ones.
3. Look after their teeth – With dental problems being so prevalent in our pets, caring for their teeth is incredibly important. We can use mouth washes, powders, special chews and biscuits but there really is no substitute for regular brushing.
4. Regular Vet Checks – It is absolutely vital for all of our pet’s health, not just their teeth, that they have regular check-ups with your vet. At least annually but ideally more frequently, especially as they get older.
