Maltese Health Problems & Vet Costs
Breed-specific health conditions, expected vet costs, and prevention strategies for Maltese owners.
Conditions ranked by cost impact
Each condition's expected cost = probability of occurrence × average treatment cost. Sorted by financial impact to help you plan.
Patellar Luxation
- ✓ Maintain healthy weight
- ✓ Avoid slippery floors
- ✓ Controlled exercise
Covered by most plans as orthopedic condition. Subject to waiting period. Grade 1-2 may not require surgery.
Collapsed Trachea (Tracheal Collapse)
- ✓ Use harness instead of collar
- ✓ Maintain healthy body weight
- ✓ Avoid respiratory irritants and excessive heat
Medications and stent surgery are covered; chronic condition that benefits significantly from early insurance enrollment.
Portosystemic Shunt (Liver Shunt)
- ✓ Genetic screening of breeding stock
- ✓ Bile acid testing in puppies
- ✓ Avoid breeding affected individuals
Surgery is covered under most plans if diagnosed after enrollment; condition often detected early in life.
Periodontal Disease
- ✓ Daily tooth brushing
- ✓ Dental chews
- ✓ Regular professional cleanings
- ✓ Dental diets
Dental illness coverage varies significantly. Embrace includes dental. Most others exclude routine dental. Check policy specifics.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
- ✓ DNA testing before breeding
- ✓ Choose breeders who test for PRA
Covered as hereditary condition. Treatment costs are low since no cure exists, but diagnosis workup can be expensive.
Prevention that fits a Maltese
These categories follow directly from the risks above. Prevention gear is the cheap end of every condition on this page; talk to your vet before starting any supplement.
Joint support supplement
Glucosamine-chondroitin support is the classic play for breeds with documented hip, knee, or elbow risk. Ask your vet about dosing before you start.
See picks on Amazon →Orthopedic bed
Memory-foam support is the cheapest thing you can do for joints that will carry a lot of weight for a lot of years.
See picks on Amazon →Undercoat and grooming kit
For heavy-coated breeds, a proper rake at home stretches the time between professional grooming visits.
See picks on Amazon →As an Amazon Associate, PetCostEngine earns from qualifying purchases.
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Frequently asked questions
What health problems do Malteses commonly have?
Malteses are predisposed to Patellar Luxation, Collapsed Trachea (Tracheal Collapse), Portosystemic Shunt (Liver Shunt), Periodontal Disease. The breed has a low overall health risk tier with $500 in expected lifetime medical costs.
How much do Maltese vet bills cost?
Expected lifetime medical costs for a Maltese total approximately $500. This includes treatment for breed-specific conditions, with Patellar Luxation being the most likely expense.
Is a Maltese a healthy breed?
The Maltese has a low health risk rating. With 5 breed-specific predispositions, regular veterinary checkups and preventive care are important.
Should I get pet insurance for a Maltese?
Given the Maltese's low health risk tier and $500 in expected medical costs, pet insurance is optional but may provide peace of mind for unexpected emergencies.
Sources
Figures on this page are modeled estimates calibrated to published benchmarks (accessed 2026-07-21). Breed characteristics follow AKC breed standards. Full formula and inputs: our methodology.
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