'Catastrophe': October sees a fifth more cat claims

• On average, 430 insurance claims for cats are made every day of October
• Dental treatment is the most common ailment 
• Pet ownership rose from 41 per cent of households to 59 per cent during lockdown

It isn’t just Halloween which is frightening for felines as October sees a spike in cat insurance claims compared to the average month, with 19 per cent more made during October reveals new research from Direct Line Pet Insurance¹.  

October sees one in 10 of every insurance claim for cats made during the month. On average each day of October sees over 430 claims.

The most common claims during October 2020 were for dental treatment (11 per cent), lameness, wounds, growths and hyperthyroidism (all four per cent).

Over lockdown, the share of households in the UK owning a pet rose sharply from 41 per cent to 59 per cent. When looking specifically at cats, 27 per cent of households – seven million – now own at least one.

Madeline Pike, Veterinary Nurse for Direct Line Pet Insurance, said: “Lockdown and working from home has encouraged many people to welcome a new pet into their lives, meaning there are a lot of new owners who perhaps don’t have much experience of caring for animals. As this was the most popular month for cat claims last year, we’re urging owners to take extra care this month and look out for any signs that their feline friend may be unwell. Some common symptoms to look out for include sudden mood changes, noticeable weight loss or gain, changes in appetite and bad breath. If you notice any of these signs, it is always best to get your animal checked out by a professional.”  

Notes to Editors

¹          Analysis of Direct Line claims data

For further information please contact:

Chelsey Wheeler
PR manager – Direct Line  

Tel: 01651 832 095

Email: Chelsey.Wheeler@directlinegroup.co.uk  

Direct Line

Started in 1985, Direct Line became the first UK insurance company to use the telephone as its main channel of communication. It provides motor, home, travel and pet insurance cover direct to customers by phone or on-line.

Direct Line general insurance policies are underwritten by U K Insurance Limited, Registered office: The Wharf, Neville Street, Leeds LS1 4AZ. Registered in England and Wales No 1179980. U K Insurance Limited is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority.

Direct Line and UK Insurance limited are both part of Direct Line Insurance Group plc.

Customers can find out more about Direct Line products or get a quote by calling 0345 246 3761 or visiting