Domestic Shorthair Cat Insurance with Flexible Cover

Award-winning+ Cat and Kitten Insurance with Optional Benefits
Pet care resources customised for vets and pet owners
Partnered with the biggest breeder associations in Australia

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Rated 4.7 on ProductReview and
4.6 on Google Reviews as of July 2025

Very simple with super fast claim reimbursements which is what we love.
Lisa C. – South East Queensland, QLD.
Source: ProductReview.com.au

Close Up Portrait Of Small Cute Gray Cat Kitten At Grass Outdoor Background At Sunny Summer Evening.

Domestic shorthair cat walking outdoors during winter

Outstanding Value

Winner 5 Years Straight!

About Domestic Shorthair cats

The Domestic Shorthair is the beloved “all-rounder” of the Australian feline world. While not a formal breed with a strict pedigree, these cats are eligible to compete in the “Companion” or “Household Pet” divisions of cat shows.

Moggies, as what they are often called too, are the gold standard for multi-pet households and families with children due to their typically easy-going nature. Their intelligence and social flexibility make them excellent candidates for therapy work.

Because they aren’t tied to a specific breed standard, every Domestic Shorthair is a “limited edition” original.

They are particularly well-suited for first-time owners who want a low-maintenance companion that can keep up with an active household.

Walking a domestic cat with the owner on a yellow harness. The t

💡FUN FACT! Domestic Shorthairs can come in over 80 different colors and patterns, including the famous “tuxedo,” “calico,” and “tortoiseshell” looks.

We partnered with some of the biggest breeder associations in Australia

Our breeder partners help us educate pet owners with expert tips and insights about dogs and cats.

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Domestic Shorthair Quick Facts

A quick glance at the essential facts for the Domestic Shorthair cat, one of Australia’s most loved companions.

Weight: 3 – 7.5 kilograms
Height: 20 – 30 centimetres
Coat Type: Dense, straight, often double coat
Colour: Variety of solids, tabby, tuxedo, tortoiseshell, calico, ginger, grey, lilac, white, and mixed patterns

Temperature: Affectionate, playful, and, easygoing
Size: Medium
Price Range: ≈ $100 – $600 ⓘ
Life Expectancy: 12-20 years

Living with Domestic Shorthair cats

Being a Domestic Shorthair cat owner can be very rewarding. Here’s a quick look at their needs.

Temperament & Social Needs

These cats are very adaptable and fit right in, whether they live in a quiet home or a busy house with kids and other pets.
They enjoy being around people and will often follow you from room to room just to see what you are doing.

Exercise & Grooming

Domestic Shorthairs have a natural hunting instinct and require daily interactive play with toys or laser pointers to stay mentally sharp and physically fit.
Their short, dense fur is very easy to care for, usually needing just one quick brush a week to keep it shiny.

Health Insights ⓘ

Because they come from a wide gene pool rather than a narrow breed standard, Domestic Shorthairs are often healthy with fewer inherited genetic diseases.
They can be prone to obesity if overfed, so it’s important to monitor their calorie intake and encourage regular movement.

Essential preventative measures to keep
your Domestic Shorthair cat happy

As responsible pet owners, always ensure to give your pets the best care possible.

Regular veterinary
check-ups

Diet and weight
management

Regular
grooming

Ear care

Dental
care

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Common health problems in cats

Knose covers the following potential health problems in cats:

Vet consultations are essential appointments where a veterinarian examines your cat, addresses any symptoms or concerns, and may recommend further diagnostics or treatment. These visits are vital for maintaining your cat’s overall health, catching issues early, and ensuring they receive timely care for illnesses or injuries.

Knose: No sub-limit

Other providers: $500 Sub-limit

Hip joint surgery in cats is performed to treat conditions such as hip dysplasia, dislocation, or fractures—most commonly after trauma. Procedures like femoral head ostectomy (FHO) or, more rarely, total hip replacement can relieve pain and restore function. Recovery often involves rest, physiotherapy, and careful monitoring.

Knose: No sub-limit

Other providers: $2,000 Sub-limit

Cruciate ligament injuries, while rare in cats, can result from trauma or awkward landings. When this ligament in the knee is torn or ruptured, it leads to pain, limping, and reduced mobility. Treatment may involve strict rest, anti-inflammatory medication, or surgery if the injury is severe or does not heal with conservative care.

Knose: No sub-limit

Other providers: $2,000 Sub-limit

Tick paralysis is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition in cats caused by the toxin from paralysis ticks. Symptoms include sudden weakness, wobbliness, and difficulty breathing or swallowing. Prompt veterinary intervention—including tick removal and supportive hospital care—is essential to recovery.

Knose: No sub-limit

Other providers: $2,000 Sub-limit

Orthopaedic conditions in cats relate to the bones, joints, and musculoskeletal system, often involving issues like fractures, arthritis, and joint dislocations. Diagnosis may include physical exams and imaging such as X-rays. Treatment can range from conservative management to complex surgical procedures, depending on the severity and cause.

Knose: No sub-limit

Other providers: $2,000 Sub-limit

Frequently Asked Questions

In general, cat insurance is worth it because of the financial and emotional benefits of ensured care for your furry friends. And it’s highly recommended for Domestic Shorthair cats, given the potential for kidney disease, obesity, and other illnesses. It can help offset veterinary expenses throughout their lives.

Routine veterinary visits are recommended at least once a year for preventive care. Older Domestic Shorthair cats or those with health concerns may need more frequent check-ups.

Standard vaccinations include feline herpesvirus, calicivirus, panleukopenia, and rabies. Your vet can create a tailored vaccination schedule based on your cat’s lifestyle and risk factors.

Domestic Shorthair cats need a high-protein, low-carb nutrition with wet, meat-based food to support their muscles and hydration. Avoid dry food, as its high carbs and low moisture can cause weight gain and urinary issues. Steer clear of grains like wheat and rice, and starchy vegetables such as potatoes and peas, to prevent obesity and digestive problems.

Choose a policy that covers injuries, illnesses, routine care, and hereditary conditions like hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) or kidney disease. At Knose, we offer extensive coverage to protect your cat’s health at an affordable cost!

With our Cat Insurance, you get the advantage of Lifetime Cover, which means there are no age limits once you have insurance.

The minimum age for entry for a pet is 6 weeks old.
The maximum age for entry for a pet is 8 years and 364 days old.
The maximum age for including or adding optional benefits is 2 years and 364 days.

There are no age limits when renewing policies.