Anyone in search of pet insurance needs to avoid being drawn in by fancy add-ons and instead just find the best policy.

This is the advice of Debbie Connolly, animal behaviour consultant at SafePets UK, who explained that people should be in search of lifetime cover for illnesses.

"Choosing a policy that will give permission for treatment and pay the vet directly takes the pressure off owners at difficult time," she highlighted.

Ms Connolly suggested that pet owners should take precautions to ensure their animals stay fit and healthy.

With cats and dogs, she recommends worming and flea treatments, which need to be administered by a vet to make sure they are done properly.

Buying the best quality food is also important, Ms Connolly emphasised, as is regular grooming so any areas of pain or lumps and bumps can be quickly identified and treated as necessary.