Emergency Vet Costs in 2025

What to expect for common pet emergencies and options for paying unexpected vet bills.

⚠️ If your pet is having an emergency: Go to the vet first. Most emergency clinics will work with you on payment, and options like Scratchpay can help you finance the cost.

Average Emergency Vet Visit Costs

Emergency vet visits typically start with an exam fee of $100-300, plus any additional treatments needed. Here's what common emergencies typically cost:

Emergency vet illustration

Common Dog Emergencies

Emergency Average Cost
Emergency exam fee $100 - $300
Broken bone (leg) $1,500 - $4,000
Foreign object removal $1,000 - $3,000
Bloat/GDV surgery $2,500 - $7,500
Poison/toxin treatment $500 - $3,000
Hit by car $2,000 - $10,000+

Common Cat Emergencies

Emergency Average Cost
Urinary blockage $1,500 - $3,500
Bite wound/abscess $300 - $1,500
Diabetic crisis $500 - $2,500
Respiratory distress $500 - $3,000

Why Emergency Vet Visits Cost More

  • 24/7 staffing - Emergency clinics operate around the clock
  • Specialized equipment - Advanced diagnostic tools on-site
  • Immediate care - No waiting for appointments
  • Critical care expertise - Trained emergency specialists

How to Pay for Emergency Vet Bills

✓ Options That Help

  • Pet financing (Scratchpay)
  • CareCredit
  • Payment plans with vet
  • Pet insurance (if you have it)
  • Emergency savings

✗ Options to Avoid

  • High-interest payday loans
  • Maxing out credit cards
  • Delaying necessary care
  • Borrowing from retirement

Why Scratchpay for Emergency Vet Bills?

  • Instant approval - Know in seconds if you qualify
  • No hard credit check to see your options
  • 0% APR available for qualified applicants
  • Direct payment to vet - no upfront cost to you
  • 78% approval rate - higher than most options

Facing an Emergency Vet Bill?

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