Is Pet Insurance Worth It for Your Cat?
- Jan 5
- 4 min read
Cats are curious creatures, often exploring their surroundings with little regard for danger. One of the most serious risks they face is being hit by a car. This can lead to severe injuries and expensive veterinary bills. If you’re wondering whether pet insurance is worth it for your cat, this post will help you understand what pet insurance covers, typical injuries from car accidents, the costs involved, and how insurance can ease the financial burden. It's not just road related injuries that are a risk for cats, cats be injured in a wide variety of ways, usually when we least expect it and may not have the funds to cover the emergency. In this blog we’ll also highlight some of the best-rated pet insurance companies in the UK for 2025.
What Is Pet Insurance and How Does It Work?
Pet insurance is a policy that helps cover veterinary costs if your cat gets sick or injured. You pay a monthly or annual premium, and in return, the insurer reimburses some or all of the vet bills depending on your plan. Policies vary widely, but most cover accidents, illnesses, and sometimes routine care like vaccinations.
The main benefit is financial protection. Vet bills can quickly add up, especially for emergency treatments. Insurance helps you focus on your cat’s health without worrying about the cost.
Typical Injuries for Cats Hit by Cars
When a cat is hit by a car, injuries can range from minor to life-threatening. Common injuries include:
Fractures and broken bones: Legs, or ribs often break due to impact, but fractured pelvis is the most common injury.
Internal injuries: Damage to organs like the liver, spleen, or lungs.
Head trauma: Concussions or skull fractures.
Lacerations and wounds: Cuts from the collision or road surface.
Shock and blood loss: Serious cases may involve shock requiring immediate care.
These injuries often require emergency veterinary care, surgery, X-rays, medication, and follow-up visits. For information on how to help give first aid roadside, see our website here.
Typical Costs of Treating a Cat Hit by a Car
Veterinary treatment for a cat hit by a car can be expensive. Here’s a rough breakdown of costs based on UK veterinary fees in 2024-2025:
Emergency vet visit: £100 to £200
X-rays and scans: £150 to £300
Surgery for fractures: £500 to £1,500
Hospital stay and monitoring: £100 to £300 per day
Medication and follow-up care: £50 to £200
Total costs can easily reach £1,000 to £3,000 or more depending on the severity of injuries.
How Pet Insurance Helps When Your Cat Is Hit by a Car
Having pet insurance means you won’t have to pay the full cost upfront. Most policies cover accident-related injuries, including emergency visits, surgery, and hospital stays. This can make a huge difference in your ability to get timely care for your cat. Tragically, we have heard of cats having to be surrendered to a rescue, or sadly be euthanised, because owners couldn't stump up a large amount of money upfront following a road accident. Some vets will arrange payment methods allowing you to pay monthly, so always double check this should you not have insurance or funds to pay.
Insurance also reduces stress. Instead of worrying about vet bills, you can focus on your cat’s recovery. Some insurers offer 24/7 helplines and support to guide you through emergency situations.
Keep in mind:
Check what your policy covers before buying. Some exclude certain injuries or have limits.
Look for policies with high accident coverage and reasonable excess fees.
Understand claim processes and reimbursement times.
Best Rated Pet Insurance Companies in the UK for 2025
Choosing the right insurer is key. Here are some of the best-rated pet insurance companies in the UK for 2025 based on customer reviews, coverage options, and claims service:
Petplan
Known for comprehensive coverage and quick claims processing. Covers accidents, illnesses, and hereditary conditions.
Bought By Many
Offers flexible plans with no upper age limits and covers chronic conditions. Strong customer support.
Direct Line
Competitive pricing with good accident and illness coverage. Includes 24/7 vet helpline.
John Lewis Finance
Solid coverage with optional extras like dental care and complementary therapies.
Animal Friends
Good for older cats and offers lifetime cover for chronic conditions.
When comparing policies, consider:
Coverage limits and exclusions
Excess fees and premiums
Customer service and claim turnaround
Reviews from other cat owners
Final Thoughts on Pet Insurance for Your Cat
Cats face many risks, and being hit by a car is one of the most serious. Veterinary treatment can be costly and stressful. Pet insurance offers financial protection and peace of mind, allowing you to focus on your cat’s health without worrying about bills. We never expect it will happen to us or our cats, but with road traffic accidents being the number 1 killer in the UK currently, it is always a possibility your little one could become a victim.
If you want to protect your cat and your wallet, look for a policy with strong accident coverage, reasonable costs, and good customer support. Review the best UK insurers on recently blogs and choose one that best fits you and your cats potential needs.
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