Direct Line urges new pet owners not to leave it too late

• Young animals under six months old more likely to claim than older pets

New analysis of claims data by Direct Line Pet Insurance, reveals kittens and puppies under six months old are 60 per cent more likely to require treatment than those aged between one and three years old*. 

The claims frequency of pets aged zero to six months is equal to that of cats and dogs aged seven years or over, yet many pet owners are leaving it until their pets are just over three years old** before considering insurance.

Alongside the potential veterinary costs, pre-existing medical conditions should also be taken into consideration, as pets with pre-existing conditions may result in some conditions not being covered.

Potential conditions amongst kittens and puppies under six months old:

• Parasites, a new environment and a change in diet may all lead to digestive upsets
• Respiratory disorders: young pets are at a greater risk of developing respiratory disorders such as upper respiratory tract infections, as their immune system may not be as robust as older pets
• Pets will be at risk of conditions such as parvovirus, cat flu, feline leukaemia, hepatitis, leptospirosis and more if pet owners fail to invest in vaccinations
• Signs of potentially serious conditions such as heart problems are often present in cats and dogs under 6 months old and skin conditions can show signs as young as 3 months old
• Congenital and hereditary conditions for certain breeds are also more likely to affect animals of a young age, including bone and joint problems such as hip and elbow dysplasia or some eye conditions.

Edd Barclay, head of pet insurance, Direct Line, commented: “People can underestimate the cost of looking after their new pets and often leave it too late to get their animals insured. Younger animals’ immune systems are still developing so they may be more prone to illnesses such as respiratory or gastric upsets.  This is why it’s important to check with the vet as to what preventative care is needed such as vaccinations, worm and flea control.

“It’s important to remember that as animals age they may develop medical conditions,  meaning that those conditions may no longer be eligible for insurance with a new provider, so we’d urge pet owners to make sure they do not leave it too late.”

Looking after young animals

Puppies

The dietary needs of your dog will change over time. Just like humans, puppies, adults and senior dogs all have different needs and as such we always recommend the use of a good quality, complete food from a reputable manufacturer.

The experiences of young puppies can affect their development and therefore influence their behaviour. Socialising your puppy is critical in ‘shaping’ their behaviour as they mature. Puppy socialisation should start at a young age, ensuring contact with different people and other vaccinated dogs.

Kittens

Cats need to play, miming hunting and predation. Some cats will spend hours chasing paper or cloth prey. If you have a kitten it is important you join in these games so it can learn to control its biting and scratching and be careful with certain parts of your body. Balls of tin foil or a hanging mobile can help a stimulating environment.

Both

Worms can be dangerous to both you and your pet. Both roundworms and tapeworms can cause your pet to become ill, especially if they are young puppies or kittens.

ENDS

Notes to Editors

*claims frequency of 25% compared to 15%

**average age of pets when their owners take out insurance

For further information please contact:

Claire Foster

Direct Line

claire.foster@directlinegroup.co.uk  
0208 285 8682

07900 217 264

Kia McLean

Citigate Dewe Rogerson

Kia.McLean@citigatedr.co.uk

0207 282 1092

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 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 0845 246 3761 or visiting www.directline.com