A visit to a pet clinic in Singapore can bring peace of mind for your pet’s well-being. However, a key consideration you cannot afford to overlook is the cost of these visits.
The problem is that fees are not fixed and can vary considerably based on the clinic, your pet’s size and the type of service. On this page, we’ll break down typical charges, and share some budget tips you will find helpful.
We’ll also share whether pet insurance can help and why regular vet visits are crucial. Keep reading!
How Much does it Cost to See a Vet in Singapore?
As part of your planning for a visit to the veterinary clinic in Singapore, you will want to know how much you should have before visiting a vet. So, you might want to ask; how much does it cost to see a vet in Singapore?
Now, at a veterinary clinic in Singapore, a basic consultation typically starts from $25 to $60. This price covers a general check-up: your pet’s weight check, temperature reading and a chat about any symptoms. Smaller pets like cats or small dogs usually fall at the lower end of this range. Larger dogs or exotic pets might cost more, as they need extra handling or expertise.
Beyond the consultation fee, additional costs can apply. If your pet needs a simple vaccination—such as for rabies or distemper—you might pay around $30 to $50 per vaccine.
Some clinics package vaccinations together, which can lower the per-shot cost. Deworming treatments cost about $15 to $40, depending on the type and strength of medication.
If blood tests are required, expect to pay an extra $50 to $120. For example, a basic blood panel to check organ function often sits near $80. See the different blood tests for dogs and cats here.
X-rays or ultrasound scans range from $80 to $200 per view, depending on the equipment and the area examined. If your pet needs stitches or a small surgery like a mass removal, you could see bills from $200 to $500 for minor procedures, plus the consultation.
Emergency visits at a 24-hour veterinary clinic in Singapore usually come with higher fees. An after-hours consultation can add $50 to $100 on top of the normal rate.
Emergency treatments—like IV fluids or urgent surgery—vary widely but often start at $200 and can rise quickly. That said, a simple vet visit might cost $50, while more complex care easily reaches several hundred dollars.
How Much should I Budget for a Vet?
The figures above can be a little confusing. So, it is understandable if the question at the back of your mind right now is; how much should I budget for a vet?
Below are common costs to include in your budget when planning to visit a veterinary clinic in Singapore. Please, note that the figures below are only rough estimates. See how much to budget for a vet in Singapore below;
- Annual Check-Up and Vaccinations: (~$80–$150) Most vets recommend a yearly exam plus core vaccines. This package often bundles the consultation, distemper, parvovirus and hepatitis shots (for dogs) or the feline vaccines (for cats).
- Parasite Control: (~$80–$200 per year) Deworming tablets or spot-on treatments for fleas, ticks and worms add up. Expect to spend $15–$40 per deworming session, and $50–$120 for a full-year flea prevention plan.
- Dental Cleaning: (~$150–$300) A dental scale and polish under anaesthesia helps prevent gum disease. Prices depend on your pet’s size and dental needs.
- Blood Tests and Diagnostics: (~$100–$300) If your pet shows unusual signs—like weight loss or high energy loss—your vet may suggest a blood panel or ultrasound. Even a basic blood test often costs $80–$120.
- Minor Surgery or Procedures: (~$200–$500) Things like mass removals, spaying/neutering or lump biopsies generally start from $200. The fee rises if the procedure is more complex.
It is recommendable that you set aside $500 to $800 per year for routine and unexpected care. If your pet is older or has chronic conditions, you might budget $1,000 or more annually.
Can Pet Insurance help Cover Vet Costs?
To begin with, pet insurance is basically a coverage that helps pet owners cover the costs of veterinary care for their animals. It’s similar to human health insurance and can provide financial protection against unexpected medical expenses. So, can a pet insurance help cover vet costs?
The answer is yes. Pet insurance can ease the financial burden when your pet gets sick or has an accident. At a good veterinary clinic in Singapore, having insurance means you pay less out of pocket.
Most plans cover accidents, illnesses and sometimes routine care. But before selecting a policy, check:
- Coverage Limits: Many insurers cap payouts per year or per condition. A common limit is $5,000 annually. If your pet needs major surgery, you want a plan with high limits.
- Waiting Periods: Insurers often require you to wait two to four weeks before covering accidents. Illness coverage might take three to six months. Read the fine print so you don’t expect instant protection.
- Breed-Specific Exclusions: Some breeds face higher risks for hip dysplasia or heart disease. Check if your dog or cat’s breed has exclusions, especially for hereditary conditions.
- Routine Care Add-Ons: Basic plans may not cover annual check-ups or vaccines. You can add a “wellness” rider to reimburse costs for things like:
- Vaccinations
- Flea, tick and worm treatments
- Annual blood tests and dental cleanings
Typical premiums range from $20 to $60 per month, depending on your pet’s age, breed and coverage level. For example, a three-year-old mixed-breed dog might pay $30 monthly, while a senior purebred cat pays closer to $40.
If you do the math, a $30 monthly premium equals $360 per year. Compare that to a single emergency surgery that could cost $1,200 or more at a veterinary clinic in Singapore.
With pet insurance, you file a claim after treatment. The insurer reimburses you based on the policy terms.
This reduces out-of-pocket costs for big bills—blood tests, X-rays, hospital stays or surgeries. For many owners, insurance is a safety net that keeps vet visits affordable and prevents tough financial choices when time is critical.
Closing Thoughts
A visit to a veterinary clinic in Singapore involves more than just a quick check. While skipping regular visits may feel cheaper now, it often leads to higher bills and avoidable suffering for your pet.
The good thing with knowing what to expect at a veterinary clinic in Singapore is that you can budget wisely, choose insurance wisely and give your companion the care they need.
Are you in Singapore and wish to give your pet the best care without worrying about sudden bills? Book a check-up at our veterinary clinic in Singapore today. See details below;
Dr Paws Vet Care – Pets/Pocket Pets Health Checks, Vaccinations and Surgeries
77 Lucky Heights Lucky Court (off, Upper E Coast Rd, Singapore 467626)
https://drpawsvetcare.com/
Phone: +65 6243 4668
