truInsights into Pet Allergies

Trupanion Decodes Trends and Provides Tips for Pet Parents

As the number one most frequently claimed condition among Trupanion pet parents, allergies in pets are a topic of increasing priority for pet parents. With over 20 years of pet health data, Trupanion, Inc. (Nasdaq: TRUP), the leading provider of medical insurance for cats and dogs, has conducted a deep dive into its veterinary invoice data, revealing trends and insights as well as offering some practical tips for pet parents.

Allergy Claims on the Rise

Trupanion's analysis of its data between 2019 and 2023 reveals a 42% increase in the frequency of allergy and ear infection claims among Trupanion pets in North America¹. Taking a look at changes from one year to the next, the increase in allergy-related invoices has varied from up 6% to up 14%, showing variability over time.

2020	2021	2022	2023
+14% YoY	+7% YoY	+11% YoY	+6% YoY

Despite the overall upward trend in allergy-related claims, veterinary care can play a crucial role in managing allergies in pets.

A deeper dive into Trupanion’s database of over 3 million protected pets² shows that on average, a dog will have 16 allergy related claims, while a cat will have 6 allergy related claims, with the average cost of treating allergies adding up to approximately $2,300 for dogs, and $600 for cats, over the pet’s lifetime.

For pet parents concerned about allergies affecting their furry companions, Trupanion consulted with veterinarian and Trupanion General Manager, Dr. Stephen Rose, BVSc (Hons1) M Infotech CVA ACVCHM, for his insights. “Allergies, much like in humans, can have broad health implications, affecting skin, ears, eyes, feet, and even internal organs,” said Dr. Rose. “Allergies are less seldom triggered by a singular factor but rather accumulate from multiple triggers, ultimately prompting the need for treatment. This complexity often makes it challenging to pinpoint the exact allergen causing the reaction, as it's typically a combination of factors.”