The cost of routine visits to the vet has shot up in the last five years meaning owners are having to fork out more to keep their pet healthy.

Figures from the Society of Practicing Veterinary Surgeons show that since 2002, the price of regular treatment has soared by over 20%.

Allan Burns, head of Tesco Pet Insurance, said: “Vets fees are becoming more expensive and it is important to know that in the event of an accident or unexpected illness your pet’s medical treatment can be paid for.

“Pet owners are responsible for ensuring their pets are kept healthy and happy and that includes picking up expensive vets fees if they’ve no insurance“.

According to research by Mintel, just over one third of pet owners feel they cannot easily afford all the veterinary costs for their pets.