Atypical Home Pets Need Special Health Insurance
Cats and dogs are the most common pet in the UK, which is why pet insurance only unusually covers these two animals. In 2009 the RSPCA estimated that there was 8 million cats in over 5.2 million British households, and 8 million dogs in over 6 million British households. When one in two households includes a pet in the UK, that statistic translates into a lot of cats and dogs who need financial protection through insurance.
Cats and dogs are probably the most common pet, as they are relatively easy to look after and give a lot of joy back in return. Cats are a little more independent than dogs and tend to like being left to their own devices. Cats need a regular supply of healthy food; a warm, safe house; and a loving owner 袔 but other than that, cats like to wander around outside and get their own exercise. Dogs, on the other hand, do need a little more attention as they must be taken for regular walks. Dogs also need a regular supply of healthy food and a loving home, but they need regular exercise too. Both animals like toys to play with and being showered with love and affection.
Dogs and cats are lively and loveable companions, which is why pet insurance covers some of the little scrapes and difficulties that a dog or cat can get themselves into. Pet insurance will protect you financially against unexpected vets’ bills, loss or theft, if your pet causes an accident, or if they require specialist treatment or training.
Although it might seem like cats and dogs are the most popular pets in the UK, there are still some 4.7 million British households that have fish in tanks or ponds. In fact, fish actually come a close second to dogs as the most popular pet. According to the Pet Food Manufacturers association, in 2010 the percentage of households owning a pet in the UK were broken down as follows; 23% dogs, 19% cats, 16% indoor and outdoor fish, and the remaining 42% split between small animals. So whilst cats and dogs are popular, fish are swimming up just 3% behind in popularity.
Fish are a popular pet as they look spectacular in a tank and are very calming to watch. Although they do need a good quality tank with a regular supply of fresh, clean water and food 袔 they are otherwise quite happy to swim around in their watery home.
There are also around 3 million small animals which are kept as pets; these include rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, gerbils and rats. These smaller furry creatures can be popular first pets for children, as they are fun to cuddle and watch running around. In terms of time, smaller animals are also on the side of lower maintenance; although they need to get plenty of exercise inside their hutch or cage, pet owners don袔t tend to take their gerbil out for walk.
Whether your pet is a cat, dog, fish or smaller animal, you will want to make sure they are protected against illness, theft or loss. Your animal will surely have lots of character, which means they will have a lively life with lots of adventure. Pet insurance is a great way for you to feel safe in the knowledge that you will also be financially protected for whatever those adventures include.
If you have a cat or a dog, you will be able to take out standard pet insurance, whereas if you袔d like to insure any other kind of animal 袔 make sure you get specialist insurance to meet that particular animal袔s needs.
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