Desexing your pet is one of the most responsible decisions you can make as an owner. It helps reduce unwanted litters, supports better behaviour, and lowers the risk of certain health issues later in life.
But when it comes to covering the cost, many pet owners are left wondering if their insurance policy includes this essential procedure. In this blog, we’ll walk you through what desexing involves, why it matters, and whether pet insurance can help with the expense.
What Is Desexing and Why It Matters
Desexing, also known as spaying or neutering, is a surgical procedure that prevents pets from reproducing. In female pets, this involves removal of the ovaries and usually the uterus. For males, it means removal of the testicles.
While the idea of surgery might feel daunting, desexing is a routine procedure with long-term benefits. It helps reduce the risk of certain cancers and infections, minimises hormone-driven behaviours like roaming or aggression, and can even extend your pet’s lifespan.
Research from Brown University supports these benefits, noting that spaying a female before her first heat cycle significantly reduces the risk of mammary tumours, which are malignant in around 50% of dogs and 90% of cats.
Neutering male pets prevents testicular cancer and may help lower the risk of prostate disease. Spaying also eliminates the risk of pyometra—a serious and potentially fatal uterine infection.
Desexed pets are also less likely to contribute to the growing number of unwanted animals in shelters. This makes it a responsible choice for pet owners and the wider community.
Does Pet Insurance Cover Desexing?
Standard pet insurance does not usually cover desexing. This is because desexing is classed as a routine or preventative procedure rather than treatment for an unexpected illness or injury.
However, some insurers offer optional routine care or wellness add-ons. These extras are designed to help with everyday veterinary expenses and may include partial cover for desexing.
The level of cover varies between providers, and there’s often a set limit for how much you can claim each year. In most cases, this doesn’t cover the full cost, but it can reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
If desexing is something you’re planning for, it’s worth checking if your insurer offers this kind of add-on and what’s included in the routine care benefits.
When Desexing Is Covered
While standard pet insurance won’t usually cover desexing, some policies give you the option to add routine care or wellness cover. These extras are designed to help with preventative treatments and everyday health needs that fall outside the scope of accident or illness cover.
Routine care add-ons may offer partial reimbursement for desexing, though this typically comes with annual limits. The amount you can claim will vary depending on your insurer and the level of cover you choose.
In addition to desexing, routine care benefits might also include:
- Vaccinations
- Microchipping
- Flea, tick, and worm prevention
- Dental checks
- Heartworm testing
If you’re considering routine care, it’s worth checking exactly what’s included and how much you can claim for each item. These extras can provide peace of mind and help spread the cost of essential treatments throughout the year.
How Much Does Desexing Cost?
The cost of desexing can vary quite a bit depending on your pet’s size, age, gender, and where you live. Prices are generally higher for female pets, as the procedure is more complex, and for larger animals, which may need more anaesthetic and longer surgery times.
Average Costs in Australia
Cats
Male cats: Around $115 to $300
Female cats: Around $115 to $300
Dogs
Male dogs: From $200 for small breeds, up to $600+ for larger dogs
Female dogs: Between $200 and $700+, depending on size and age
Options for Lower-Cost Desexing
If cost is a concern, several programs across Australia offer reduced-fee desexing:
- National Desexing Network (NDN) – partners with clinics to provide discounts
- Local councils – may offer subsidised vouchers
- Animal welfare organisations – like the RSPCA, often run special offers or clinics
Thinking Through Your Pet Insurance Options
If desexing is on your to-do list, take the time to explore what each insurance policy offers—especially when it comes to optional routine care benefits. These extras can help cover some of the cost, but they’re not always the most cost-effective solution for every family.
Always read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) carefully so you know exactly what’s included and what’s not. Some policies may reimburse a portion of desexing expenses through routine care, while others exclude it entirely.
In many cases, paying for desexing out of pocket—especially through community programs or during discounted campaigns—may be more affordable than adding extras to your policy. If you’re unsure where to start or want advice tailored to your pet’s needs, Centenary Vets offers helpful resources and professional guidance to support your decision.
