Cat ownership surges in Chile and Peru, driving focus on care costs and pet insurance

In Chile, 57.3% of households now live with at least one cat, bringing the national feline population above five million. Experts note that cats often hide pain, making regular veterinary check‑ups, vaccinations and proper nutrition essential. José Manuel López of Bci Seguros said owners are increasingly seeking tools such as pet‑insurance policies and dedicated savings funds to ensure timely medical care.

In Peru, cats account for roughly 25% of all pets, ranking second after dogs. Ana María del Castillo of Mapfre Perú highlighted the lifelong expenses of feeding, vaccinating, sterilising and monitoring cats, stressing that annual or semi‑annual veterinary visits are crucial. She explained that pet‑insurance can spread these costs and protect owners from unexpected emergencies.

Both reports underline a growing awareness among cat owners in the two countries about the financial and health responsibilities of pet care, and a rising interest in insurance products tailored to felines.