Three reasons to get pet insurance for British Shorthairs
These cats are known for being calm and graceful – or at least that's what they told us to say. They're one of the world's oldest known cat breeds, which means they've got pretty good genetic, but it doesn't stop them – or any other cat – from being prone to certain illnesses and health issues. That's why it's best to have a pet insurance policy in place for your British Shorthair.
Here are three conditions common in the breed.
Arthritis
British Shorthairs love to lounge around, have a snooze and eat lots of yummy food (like all cats!). Unfortunately, this breed is incredibly susceptible to rapid weight gain, making it increasingly difficult for them to be active. This can be prevented by closely monitoring food and ensuring they get a bit of exercise. However, if they do become less active and gain weight, more pressure is placed on their joints, potentially causing arthritis. As arthritis is a life-long problem, the costs can be quite high if pet insurance isn’t there to lighten the load – up to $1,000 for initial treatment, plus more for medication.
Hyperthyroidism
When a cat produces too many thyroid hormones it can lead to hyperthyroidism – a condition unfortunately common in British Shorthairs, especially those on the older side. Luckily, it’s quite easy to treat, but it could still cost up to $1,000 in vet fees. Also, cats can develop more serious illnesses if the condition is left untreated, such as heart disease, hypertension and even brain damage. Symptoms to look out for are weight loss, hyperactivity and vomiting in more serious cases.
Polycystic Kidney Disease
This form of kidney disease is inherited and often found in shorthaired cats. This debilitating disease worsens over time, so treatment levels – and costs – increase. It can cost up to $6,000 to treat over time, which is a massive setback for someone without pet insurance. It can be a nasty disease for a cat to go through but with the right care, they can still have a good quality of life.
