The truth about cats and dogs is Cavoodles are Australia’s favourite canine, while the Domestic Short Hair has purred its way to the title of Top Cat, according to Bupa Pet Insurance. The list, based on Bupa Pet Insurance policies, shows size doesn’t matter with big dogs like Labradors, Border Collies and Golden Retrievers making the top 10 list as well as the smaller bundles of fun including the Maltese Cross, French Bulldog and Miniature Dachshund. While Ragdolls, Tabbies, Burmese, and Domestic Short Hairs are among our most popular cat breeds. National data reveals there are about 28.7 million pets living in 6.9 million households throughout Australia, with almost half those homes having a dog for a housemate, while a third have a cat.

Bupa General Insurance General Manager Lachlan Davidson said what all pets had in common, whether they were dogs or cats, was that they were paw-fect for companionship and cuddles. “Aussies continue to embrace paws and claws, and our popular furry pets reflect the wide-ranging choices, needs and lifestyles of pet parents,” Mr Davidson commented “Besides being cute and cuddly, Cavoodles are able to fit in with many house settings – from large homes to small city apartments, they just make for the perfect housemate.” Despite cost-of-living pressures on households, many families continue to own pets, but a national PetSure survey showed 21.5% of owners reduced preventive care including routine check-up appointments while some skipped treatment for fleas, ticks, and worms. Bupa Pet Insurance claim data shows gastrointestinal complaints, skin allergies, ear infections, eating foreign objects and eye problems were among the top claims for dogs. While for cats, injuries from accidents, gastrointestinal diseases, skin allergies, eye problems, dental issues and urinary tract disease are leading to pet bills. Mr Davidson encouraged pet owners to remain vigilant with their pet dog or cat’s health. “Many conditions when not treated early can lead to more serious complications,” Davidson commented “With the ongoing financial impacts to household budgets, pet insurance can help cover pets’ medical expenses should something unexpectedly occur. Since the pandemic, pet ownership continues to increase, and we’ve seen a 10% increase in the number of people taking out Bupa Pet Insurance.”