Top Cat Illnesses & Treatments Covered by Insurance

Moments when your cat starts making biscuits and purring are forever cherished by pet owners. However, common feline illnesses like kidney disease, diabetes and hyperthyroidism can lead to significant veterinary bills.

Pet insurance serves as a financial safety net, mitigating the burden of unexpected treatment costs. Understanding which common conditions insurers cover is essential for ensuring your beloved companion receives timely medical care without financial strain.

In this blog, we will get to know common cat illnesses and treatments and how buying pet insurance is beneficial.

What are Some Common Cat Diseases and Their Treatments?

Cats are very good at hiding pain or illness, which makes health issues easy to miss. Thus, knowing about common cat illnesses and treatments helps you spot warning signs early and get timely care:

Diabetes

Diabetes is a common cat health problem, affecting nearly 1 in every 100 cats. Common signs include excessive thirst and frequent urination.

Unfortunately, if your cat is diagnosed with diabetes, then you have to continue treatment for life. The first step your vet will take is to start insulin.

Upper Respiratory Infections

Just as we get a common cold, our feline friends get upper respiratory infections (URI). The feline viral rhinotracheitis (FVR) and feline calicivirus (FCV) cause 90% of this disease. Symptoms include sneezing, conjunctivitis, discharge from the eyes or nose and nasal congestion.

You can treat this disease at home. Vets will prescribe some medications, such as eye medications, nose drops, probiotics, interferon and decongestants.

Feline Leukemia

Feline leukaemia is a common disease that is spread through saliva. You may notice decreased appetite, inflamed gums and mouth, pale gums, chronic diarrhoea and fever in your cat. Vets diagnose it via the ELISA test.

Doctors have not found a cure for this disease. Therefore, you have to manage symptoms for the rest of your cat’s life. Vets prescribe antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medicines and blood transfusions. You must keep your cat indoors if a veterinarian diagnoses him/her with leukaemia.

Hyperthyroidism

Cats, too, can experience hormonal imbalances. One such condition is hyperthyroidism, which is usually caused by a benign tumour. It is the most common hormonal disorder seen in felines.

You may notice vomiting, diarrhoea, weight loss and aggression in your cat. Vets recommend radioiodine treatment and medicine such as methimazole for treatment. You can also shift to a low-iodine diet to help with treatment.

Feline Distemper

Feline distemper or feline panleukopenia virus is a life-threatening disease which may affect kittens and unvaccinated cats. You need to vaccinate your cat against this disease. Symptoms include dehydration, lethargy, painful abdomen, decreased appetite and fever.

Vets can only treat the symptoms, as there is no cure. They may administer IV therapy to tackle dehydration. Antibiotic and anticoagulant therapy are also prescribed.

Which Treatment is Covered Under Cat Insurance?

Pet insurance, such as Bajaj General Insurance's policy, covers surgeries and medical expenses that you incur. For example, you will receive compensation for the costs that you incur 7 days before the surgery. Simultaneously, you will also receive compensation up to the sum insured for 15 days after the surgery.

Plus, if you opt for long-term care for a cat insurance, you will get lump sum coverage for the following illnesses:

1. Epilepsy
2. Ascites
3. Cystitis
4. Jaundice
5. Thyroid dysfunction
6. Paralysis
7. Diabetes
8. Pancreatitis

Final Thoughts

Effective pet insurance plans for cat illnesses and treatments are vital for managing the costs. Coverage typically extends to diagnostics, medications and surgeries for these conditions.

Reviewing specific policy details ensures comprehensive financial protection, allowing owners to prioritise their cat's health and well-being.

To insure your cuddly pet today, download the Bajaj General app!

FAQs

What is the 333 rule for cats?

The 333 rule is for owners who have adopted a cat for the first time. It means that it takes kittens and cats 3 days for decompression, 3 weeks to settle in and 3 months to truly feel comfortable.

Can cat illness spread to humans?

Yes, you can get illnesses from your cat. These diseases are known as zoonotic diseases and can be transmitted through bites, scratches or contact with faeces. People with autoimmune diseases are more vulnerable to these.

What are common cat anxiety signs?

Although our feline companions cannot talk, they express their emotions through behavioural changes. Cats show anxiety through aggression, excessive grooming, destructive scratching, dilated pupils, trembling or panting.

How long do cat illnesses last?

The duration of cat illnesses depends on the type of disease. For example, upper respiratory infections (URI) can last from 7 days to 21 days, depending on the severity. Recovery of your cat is dependent on their health and treatment.

What is the most common cat parasite?

The most common cat parasites are roundworm and fleas. Other parasites that plague cats are hookworms, tapeworms, Giardia and earworms.

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***Disclaimer: The content on this page is generic and shared only for informational and explanatory purposes. It is based on several secondary sources on the internet and is subject to changes. Please consult an expert before making any related decisions.