What questions should I ask my vet about costs?

It's okay to ask about costs early, directly, and before treatment begins. Use the specific questions below to help you navigate five cost conversations pet parents most often need to have. You can even bring this page into your appointment to help guide your conversation. 

Before you start, know that your vet has likely heard these questions many times before. Our PetSmart Charities of Canada–Gallup research found that 96% of veterinarians say clients' financial considerations sometimes or often limit the care they can provide — and 87% say they often or always recommend an alternative treatment plan when cost is a barrier. You are not alone. 

How do I tell my vet I have a budget before the estimate comes?

Clearly and concisely say something like the questions below at the start of the visit. Include a budget number if you have one in mind or know where your limit may be. Your vet will likely appreciate the clarity and will keep this in mind as they explain their recommendations. 

"Before we talk about treatment, I want to let you know that I'm working with a budget of about $___. Can we plan with that in mind?"

If you don't have an exact number:

"Money is tight for us right now. As we go through options, can you flag what's essential right now? I want to get [pet's name] the care they need, but I also need to keep cost in mind."

Saying it first means the plan gets built around your reality, instead of having to adjust an estimate that's already developed.

How do I ask which items on a treatment plan are urgent vs. can wait?

Refer to the estimate and ask for a triage:

"If we can't do everything on this list today, which items does [pet's name] need right now? Is there anything that could safely wait a few weeks or months?"

Follow up with:

"What happens if we wait on [specific item]? What should I watch for that would mean it can't wait anymore?"

This approach can help you spread the cost over time, which may make costs more manageable. 

How do I ask for a payment plan or phased treatment schedule?

You can ask about both options. Each one may help manage costs in the short or long term. Use questions like:

"Do you offer payment plans, or work with any third-party financing? What are the terms?"

"Could we phase the treatment plan and do the most important part now, and schedule the rest as I can afford it?"

Asking these questions before treatment begins will help clinic teams work with you to determine the best approach.

How do I ask about generic or lower-cost versions of a treatment?

Here are two questions you can ask:

"Is there a generic version of this medication, or a pharmacy where it costs less?"

"Is there a lower-cost version or alternative to this treatment that would still be safe and reasonable for [pet's name]?"

Veterinarians can distinguish between the ideal plan and acceptable alternatives. Asking for the second is not asking for worse care, it is simply asking for a version of care that you can actually afford.

How do I ask "what happens if we do nothing?"

This is a legitimate medical question, and the best approach is to ask directly: 

"Help me understand the risk: what's likely to happen if we monitor this instead of treating it now?"

The answer may be "this needs treatment now.", or, "we can watch it." Either way, knowing this information will help you make an informed decision. Learn more about this here: Is it okay to say no to a treatment my vet recommends?

Frequently Asked Questions