Cost of cat operation

beks

lowis wrote: »

beks, if you haven't had insurance in place for at least two weeks prior to the problem with the anal glands starting (i.e. two years ago) then they you won't be covered. if you don't have insurance in place then you can't just go and buy some now and claim for this condition either - or any other illness that your cat has on it's medical records already.

it's still worth getting though if you don't have ready access to thousands of pounds...cats can be very expensive...i have claimed thousands for mine over the years, and i mean thousands, probably about £20k in total over 14 years

Thanks lowis

Fortunately, we have had insurance since we got her at a year old - having said that, I have not declared a problem previously which is where I think I might have difficulties. Hey ho though, if we have to pay so be it. I learn by my mistakes!

Silveralice, thank you for confirming Simons post. I will be putting forward some questions to the vets forthwith. I am worried now but I would prefer to go into it with my eyes open and know what the options and possible consequences are.

ladylouise62

Not having mentioned the problem before is no issue if it all started before you insured her.
They will probably ask for a medical history from your vet, but if you've never claimed for it before then they have 'lucked out' in not having had to stump up for it before.

I just claimed a small amount for cystitis and even for that which is a common problem for females of all species, and mostly not chronic (and I'd not claimed anything for the 3 years I'd had insurance from them, so it obviously wasn't in this case), yet once I'd claimed they demanded a history from my vets - blinkin' ridiculous in my view for cystitis (and especially since it was only for £24), but that's insurance for you and they wouldn't back down, so a little more cost and longer wait for me (still waiting from May treatment).

Although the paperwork may not mention it (mine didn't), you may be best off checking about getting the vet to provide a full medical history as well as the standard form before you claim... it will save time, hassle and in my case, a very grumpy owner

Waterfalls

some insurance companies allow the vets to ask for preauthorisation of the claim first. that way, ull know if u can make a claim or not

beks

Thanks ladylouise and waterfalls. Thats really useful to know.

Still waiting for the claim forms from insurance to arrive. I have spoken to the vet and clarified a few things, they are going to do an examination tomorrow with me there and then look to operate tomorrow aswell so long as I agree with the vets experience and to what the vet decides. They have always agreed that this operation is a last resort so I really don't think they are doing it on a whim.
Poor cat has gone downhill over the weekend though so am hoping they can still operate as I think she has another infection brewing.
Keeping all fingers crossed for tomorrow.

beks

well, she went in today and I asked the vet all the right questions thanks to Simon.
The vet carries out about one a month on dogs and cats and in his 23 years, has never had one have problems with incontinence afterwards. Although he says it is a fairly routine op, it is quite intricate hence the risks. The vet who is carrying out the op is the head vet at the practice - he said he would not let a junior vet carry out this op - he is quite wellknown in this area for his work so I am really pleased its him who is doing it. He is quite happy with our insurance and does not think there will be any problems so all fingers crossed she comes out ok.

BurPFred

lowis:- Donot be so pontified about Pet Insurance. Microchipping your pet Dog or Cat may invalidate your insurance. I have obviously not read all the reasons the insurers in all insurance policies quote as excuses for invalidation. Even that is if stretching the conection beyound comprehension between the problem diagnosed and the Microchipping. However I know it applies to the Sainsbury's/AXA Pet Insurance Policie.

BE PREPARED FOR AN EVEN BIGGER SHOCK WHEN I HAVE THE TIME:-
HOW THE INSURANCE COMPANIES ARE MAKING YOU PAY TO KILL YOUR PET CATS.

newbie87_2

It is also worth mentioning that you are well within your rights to seek a second opinion from another vet, either from the same practice or another one without feeling guilty. You have to be able to trust your vet 100%, and be able to get your concerns heard. You will have to pay a consultation fee, but surely this is worth your peace of mind?