Top Pet Insurance
Questions
Answered
If you're considering pet insurance for your furry family member, you likely have many questions about how it works and whether it's worth it.
We've compiled answers to the most frequently asked questions about pet insurance to help you make an informed decision. From coverage details to claims processing, we've got you covered.
Our experts have been in the pet insurance industry for over a decade and understand what pet owners need to know before choosing a policy.
Is Pet Insurance Worth It?
This is one of the most common questions pet owners ask, and the answer depends on several factors.
Pet insurance is typically worth it if:
- •
You couldn't easily pay for an emergency:
Emergency veterinary care can cost thousands of dollars. If you would struggle to cover a $3,000-$5,000 bill, insurance provides peace of mind.
- •
Your pet is young and healthy:
Enrolling pets when they're young ensures coverage before pre-existing conditions develop, and premiums are typically lower.
According to our research, about 1 in 3 pets will require emergency veterinary care each year, and the average cost of emergency treatment ranges from $800 to $1,500, with some complex conditions costing much more.
When Should I Get Pet Insurance?
The best time to get pet insurance is as early as possible in your pet's life, ideally when they're still a puppy or kitten.
This approach ensures you can get coverage before any pre-existing conditions develop, which would not be covered by pet insurance policies.
Key timing considerations:
- After adoption: Get insurance soon after bringing your new pet home, before their first checkup might reveal an issue that could become a pre-existing condition.
- Before breed-specific issues arise: If you have a breed prone to certain health conditions, get coverage before these issues develop.
- Before senior years: Premiums increase significantly for older pets, and coverage options may be limited.
Remember that all pet insurance policies have waiting periods before coverage begins. These typically range from 14 days for illnesses to 6 months for certain orthopedic conditions, so don't wait until your pet is showing symptoms to enroll.
Secure Your Pet's
Health Future Today!
Inadequate coverage could cost you tens of thousands of dollars.
Review your pet
insurance policy and
identify any coverage
gaps for free
What Does Pet Insurance Cover?
Coverage varies between providers and plans, but most comprehensive pet insurance policies will cover the following:
Typical coverage in accident and illness plans:
- Accidents: Injuries like broken bones, cuts, foreign object ingestion, poisoning, and car accidents.
- Illnesses: Infections, digestive issues, ear infections, allergies, and more serious conditions like cancer.
- Emergency care: Costs for emergency visits, hospitalization, and emergency surgeries.
- Diagnostic tests: Blood tests, X-rays, ultrasounds, MRIs, and other diagnostic procedures.
Some plans also cover hereditary and congenital conditions, behavioral therapy, and alternative treatments like acupuncture. Optional wellness add-ons may cover preventive care like vaccinations, annual exams, and dental cleanings.
What's Not Covered?
Understanding what pet insurance doesn't cover is just as important as knowing what it does cover.
Most pet insurance policies exclude these items, though coverage can vary by provider.
Common Exclusions:
- •
Pre-existing conditions that occurred before the policy start date or during waiting periods
- •
Routine care unless you purchase an additional wellness plan
- •
Cosmetic procedures such as tail docking, ear cropping, or declawing
- •
Breeding costs including pregnancy and birth complications
- •
Experimental treatments or procedures not approved by veterinary consensus
Variable Coverage (Check Your Policy):
- •
Dental care some policies cover dental injuries but not disease
- •
Behavioral issues some policies cover diagnosed behavioral problems
- •
Prescription diets some policies offer limited coverage for therapeutic foods
- •
Hereditary conditions some policies have limitations or waiting periods
- •
Alternative therapies like acupuncture, hydrotherapy, or chiropractic care
- •
Exam fees some companies cover vet exam fees, others don't
How Much Does Pet Insurance Cost?
Pet insurance pricing varies based on several factors that influence your monthly premium
1. Your pet's age - younger pets have lower premiums than older ones
2. Breed - some breeds are prone to health issues and cost more to insure
3. Location - veterinary costs vary by region, affecting premiums
4. Coverage level - higher limits and more comprehensive coverage increase costs
5. Deductible and reimbursement rate - higher deductibles and lower reimbursement rates reduce premiums
On average, dog insurance ranges from $25 to $70 per month, while cat insurance typically costs between $15 and $40 per month.
Use our comparison tool to get personalized quotes based on your pet's specific details.
Secure Your Pet's
Health Future Today!
Inadequate coverage could cost you tens of thousands of dollars.
Review your pet
insurance policy and
identify any coverage
gaps for free