Pet insurance for British Shorthairs featured image

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. 

 

How much does pet insurance cost for British Shorthairs?

City State Age Annual Coverage Typical Premium

San Francisco

California

3 months

Unlimited

$24.83

Austin

Texas

3 years

$5,000

$20.52

Buffalo

New York

6 years

$5,000

$19.99

Tampa

Florida

3 months

Unlimited

$19.80

Pittsburgh

Pennsylvania

4 years

Unlimited

$17.28

The best pet insurance for British Shorthairs

Provider Customer Review Score Waiting Period Minimum Enroll Age Maximum Enroll Age Pricing

50% off routine wellness plans

1.

Provider Logo

4.9

14 days for illnesses 48 hours for accidents No wait for switching direct from another provider

8 weeks

No age limit

$

Get a quote

5-star-rated Forbes pet insurer

2.

Provider Logo

4.8

14 days for illnesses 
48 hours for accidents

6 weeks

14 years old

$$

Get a quote

3.

Provider Logo

4.6

14 days for illnesses 
3 days for accidents

7 weeks

14 years old

$

Get a quote

4.

Provider Logo

4.5

14 days for illnesses 
2 days for accidents

8 weeks

14 years old

$$

Get a quote

5.

Provider Logo

4.3

15 days

8 weeks

14 years old

$$

Get a quote

Can pay claims directly to your vet

6.

Provider Logo

4.2

30 days for illnesses 
5 days for accidents

No lower limit

14 years old

$$$

Get a quote

7.

Provider Logo

4.0

14 days, including knee injuries and hip dysplasia

8 weeks

No age limit

$$$

Get a quote

8.

Provider Logo

4.0

14 days

No lower limit

No age limit

$$$

Get a quote

9.

Provider Logo

3.9

14 days for illnesses One day for accidents

8 weeks

No age limit

$$

Get a quote

Pet insurance alternative: emergency plan

10.

Provider Logo

3.8

14 days

No lower limit

14 years old

$

Get a quote

11.

Provider Logo

3.8

14 days for illnesses 
2 days for accidents

8 weeks

No age limit

$$

Get a quote

12.

Provider Logo

3.6

15 days for accidents 
and illnesses 30 days for cancer

8 weeks

No age limit

$$

Get a quote