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Cats of all kinds are cherished across Australia, and in 2024 these 10 breeds led the pack in popularity. Using PetSure’s policy data, we’ve shone a spotlight on some of the most common conditions treated by vets in 2024.
For instance, if 5.4% of insured cats of a certain breed were treated for gastroenteritis, approximately one in 20 claimed for this condition. We’ve also highlighted the prevalence of health ailments in specific breeds compared to other cats. These feline breed insights may help support early detection and help you feel more confident in caring for your cat.
1. Domestic (short, medium & long hair)
| Skin conditions | Gastroenteritis | Eye infections | Ear infections |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.6% | 5.4% | 2.5% | 1.3% |
Domestic cats—whether short, medium or long-haired—make up most of the insured
feline population and set the baseline for feline health trends. Their rates for the top
ten health conditions closely match the overall average trend but show a slightly higher incidence of urinary issues, likely due to varied backgrounds affecting hydration and litter box habits. Hyperthyroidism is also slighty more common in domestics, possibly linked to
their longer lifespans and genetic diversity, as it typically appears in older cats. Though these differences are small, they underscore the need for regular wellness checks, especially for kidney and thyroid health as cats age.
2. Ragdoll
| Skin conditions | Gastroenteritis | Eye infections | Ear infections |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.6% | 5.4% | 2.5% | 1.3% |
Ragdolls are one of the most popular cat breeds and generally align with the average for most health conditions, helping to define what’s considered “normal” in the broader cat population. They do show a slightly higher rate of gastrointestinal issues, possibly due to food sensitivities or slower digestion. Eye conditions are also marginally more common, likely tied to genetic traits affecting ocular structure or tear production. Though these increases are modest, regular vet check-ups focused on digestive and eye health can help catch issues early and support the breed’s calm, affectionate nature.
3. British Shorthair
| Skin conditions | Gastroenteritis | Eye infections | Ear infections |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3.7% | 7.8% | 5.2% | 3.4% |
British Shorthairs are more prone than average to gastrointestinal, eye, and ear issues, likely due to their facial structure and genetics. Eye and ear problems occur at more than twice the typical rate, with
digestive troubles also more common. They also face higher rates of infections, such as cat flu or feline upper respiratory tract infection (URI) and feline infectious peritonitis (FIP), and heart conditions, such as murmurs and cardiomyopathy. Behavioural issues are rare thanks to their calm, affectionate nature. While generally low-maintenance, regular check-ups—especially for heart, digestive, and eye health—can help manage their increased risks.
4. Maine Coon
| Skin conditions | Gastroenteritis | Eye infections | Ear infections |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.7% | 7.3% | 2.8% | 3% |
Maine Coons are more prone to digestive issues, with gastrointestinal conditions occurring about 25% more often than in the average cat—possibly due to their large size, heavy coats causing hairballs, or common dietary sensitivities. They’re also twice as likely to develop ear conditions,
likely linked to their large, tufted ears trapping debris and moisture. Additionally, they are around 70% more likely to ingest
foreign objects, reflecting their playful, curious nature. Preventive care—like regular grooming, ear checks, and enriched
environments—can help reduce the risk of these health issues.
5. Burmese
| Skin conditions | Gastroenteritis | Eye infections | Ear infections |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.7% | 5.7% | 6% | 0.8% |
Burmese cats are more prone than average to several health issues. Eye conditions are more than twice as common, likely due to inherited traits, and they’re more than twice as likely to develop arthritis, possibly linked to their stocky build. Renal problems occur nearly three times as often, making regular blood and urine tests important. Their playful, curious nature also means they’re
almost twice as likely to swallow foreign objects. Routine check-ups and early screening are key to managing these risks and supporting long-term health.
6. Bengal
| Skin conditions | Gastroenteritis | Eye infections | Ear infections |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.1% | 7.3% | 3% | 2.2% |
Bengal cats are generally healthier than average, but they’re more prone to digestive issues—likely due to a fast metabolism and food sensitivities. They’re also more than 1.5 times more likely to develop musculoskeletal problems, possibly from their high energy and muscular build. Their social nature and exposure in multi-cat settings raise the risk of infections, such as cat flu and FIP. Keeping an eye on gut health, joint mobility, and early signs of infection can help manage these risks.
7. Devon Rex
| Skin conditions | Gastroenteritis | Eye infections | Ear infections |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8.6% | 9% | 5.5% | 3.8% |
Devon Rex cats are more susceptible to several health issues than the average cat. Digestive problems occur more than 50% more often, and they’re more than twice as likely to develop ear conditions—likely due to their large, open ears that trap debris. Skin disorders are especially common, with rates more than three times higher, possibly linked to their fine, curly coat and delicate skin. Circulatory issues also appear more frequently, though the cause is unclear. Regular vet check-ups are key to managing these elevated risks.
8. Russian Blue
| Skin conditions | Gastroenteritis | Eye infections | Ear infections |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.5% | 8.2% | 3.2% | 2.5% |
Russian Blues have slightly higher rates of digestive, urinary, and respiratory issues, with gut problems being especially common. Urinary troubles may be linked to their sensitivity to stress or changes in routine. Eye, ear, and mild musculoskeletal issues are also a bit more frequent. On the plus side, they’re less prone to heart disease and hyperthyroidism, likely thanks to their calm nature and steady activity levels. Though generally healthy and long-lived, regular check-ups—especially for digestive and urinary health—help catch problems early and support ongoing wellbeing.
9. Sphynx
| Skin conditions | Gastroenteritis | Eye infections | Ear infections |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4.4% | 5.5% | 4.7% | 5.4% |
Sphynx cats are much more likely than average to develop heart murmurs and cardiomyopathy due to their limited gene pool. Their fast metabolism and lack of fur may also strain the heart. They’re more than three times more prone to ear issues, as their large, hairless ears trap wax and debris. Skin problems are common too, with exposed skin easily irritated or infected. Respiratory issues, such as coughing and asthma-like symptoms, occur nearly twice as often, likely from sensitive airways and an indoor lifestyle. Regular vet visits—especially for heart and skin health—are essential for early detection and ongoing care.
10. Siberian
| Skin conditions | Gastroenteritis | Eye infections | Ear infections |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.7% | 9.3% | 2.2% | 1% |
Siberian cats have a distinct health profile. They face gastrointestinal issues more often
than other cats but show significantly lower rates of common problems, such as arthritis
(more than two-thirds less), likely due to their strong build and active nature. While they do have slightly higher rates of benign tumors and illness, such as cat flu, Siberians are generally hardy and robust. Their low risk of joint and respiratory issues reinforces their reputation as physically resilient, especially with regular exercise and a clean indoor environment.
*Based on PetSure claims data 2024 as at March 2025. These insights are based on aggregated insurance PetSure claims data from 2024 and reflect the conditions reported in insured pets over a 12-month period. They are not predictive of individual outcomes and should not be used as a substitute for veterinary advice. Sample sizes vary by breed and are noted for context, but results may not be representative of all pets within a breed.
Pet insurance can help by covering a portion of the eligible vet bill if the unexpected happens. Because it is difficult to predict the costs of veterinary care, it can help to have measures in place to help prepare for the unexpected. Check out our partner network and explore our policy tools to find a pet insurance policy.
Not all conditions or items are covered by Pet Insurance. Refer to the applicable Product Disclosure Statement for information about coverage and exclusions.
