Pet Insurance: What Does It Cover?
Coverage varies by policy, and some standard exclusions exist. Specifically, most policies don’t cover pre-existing conditions. This guide can help you navigate your options and find the ideal plan for your pet.
Most pet insurance plans cover the following:
Injuries
Pet insurance typically covers minor issues — like cuts, sprains, ligament tears, and fractures — and more severe incidents — such as injuries resulting from an attack by another dog, car hit, or accident.
Illness
Common illnesses, like ear infections, skin allergies, or respiratory infections
Hereditary and long-term disorders, such as cherry eye, heart disease, and epilepsy
Diagnostic tests and treatments for conditions like diarrhea and asthma
Monitoring and treatment of diseases that require ongoing care, such as diabetes
Severe illnesses, including cancer, autoimmune diseases, or organ failure
Certain specialized treatments, such as chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery
Medication
Pet insurance covers any medication a vet prescribes, except over-the-counter drugs and medicines for pre-existing conditions. Coverage includes:
Painkillers
Antibiotics for infections
Antiparasitics
Anti-inflammatories for pain and swelling
Pet insurance also covers medication needs for chronic conditions, including thyroid regulation pills, medications for pancreas function, or insulin shots.
Testing
Pet insurance policies cover various tests from common blood work and urinalysis to advanced imaging like X-rays, ultrasounds, MRIs, or CT scans. Coverage also includes specialized testing, such as biopsies, allergy testing, or endoscopies.
What Does Pet Insurance Not Cover?
Even the most comprehensive plan has limitations, most commonly:
Pre-existing conditions
Elective procedures
Pregnancy and breeding costs
Behavioral issues
Special diets
Routine checkups (covered in some wellness policies)
Preventive care (covered in some wellness policies)
Dental health care (covered in some wellness policies)
Alternative therapies
Non-veterinary services
Types of Pet Insurance Plans
The right pet insurance plan should address your pet’s needs. These are the three most common types of pet insurance plans:
Accident-Only Coverage
Accident-only policies may suit young pets — generally healthy but prone to mishaps (think a hyperactive puppy or curious cat). A budget-friendly option, this type of policy doesn’t cover illnesses.
Accident-only policies cover:
Broken bones
Wounds and bites
Ingesting harmful substances
Burns or fire injuries
Sprains and strains
Pros
Generally more affordable than a comprehensive plan
Covers unexpected injuries
Often doesn't have upper age limits
Cons
Doesn’t cover illnesses or chronic conditions
Excludes preventive care
Can be limiting for older or at-risk pets
Coverage limit is usually much lower than comprehensive plans
Accident and Illness Coverage
Accident and illness coverage combines the benefits of accident-only insurance with protection against certain illnesses. This comprehensive plan is suitable if your pet is older or has a history of health issues. It’s also suitable if you want to be prepared for potential health challenges. Accident and illness policies cover minor problems, such as colds or cuts, and severe conditions, like kidney failure and diabetes.
Accident and illness policies cover:
All accidents — e.g., broken bones and bites
Chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease
Unexpected illnesses, such as infections or cancer
Genetic disorders, including hip dysplasia
Emergency vet visits and hospitalizations
Pros
More comprehensive coverage compared to accident-only policies
Suitable for pets of all life stages
Can provide peace of mind for various health problems
Includes treatment for genetic and hereditary conditions
Cons
Generally more expensive than accident-only plans
Usually have waiting periods for certain conditions
Pre-existing conditions are typically excluded
Wellness Coverage
Unlike standard pet insurance, which primarily focuses on unexpected medical expenses due to accidents or illnesses, wellness coverage is designed to help manage the costs of regular veterinary services and routine care, including vaccinations, dental care, and annual exams. This add-on might be ideal for older pets or pets prone to genetic health issues.
Wellness policies cover:
Regular vaccinations and booster shots
Annual checkups and blood work
Preventive medications like flea, heartworm, and tick treatments
Microchip implant for identification
Routine diagnostic tests to detect parasites
Pros
Encourages and supports preventive care
Can be bundled with other plans for complete coverage
Often includes dental cleanings or spaying/neutering
May cover additional services like routine anal gland expression
Cons
Excludes accidents or illnesses
Can be costly when added to basic plans
How Does Pet Insurance Work?
Pet insurance requires a monthly premium based on your pet’s age, breed, and plan specifics. Every policy also includes a deductible, the amount you pay before the insurance kicks in. Deductibles typically fall between $0 and $1,000. The amount depends on your chosen pet insurance coverage and how much you decide to pay out of pocket.
Most policies reimburse owners after they pay their pet’s bill — and they only cover a percentage of the cost, usually 70% to 90%. To file a claim after a vet visit, you must submit a detailed invoice explaining treatment and costs. Log into your insurance account to submit your claim, invoice, and required documents, like medical records or proof of payment. After the insurance company reviews and approves your claim, it reimburses you by check or direct deposit.
All pet insurance plans have waiting periods between purchasing the policy and being eligible to make your first claim. Typically, you have to wait 14 days for illnesses and 48 hours for accidents.
How to Choose the Best Plan for Your Pet
Assess your pet’s needs: Basic coverage may suffice for younger pets, but older pets or breeds prone to health issues could benefit from comprehensive plans.
Check what the plan covers: Study the policy details and make sure you understand what’s included and excluded from the plan. Also, consider coverage limits: Is a $5,000 annual cap enough, or would unlimited coverage give you more peace of mind?
Consider the cost: Take into account the monthly premium, deductible, reimbursement rates, and payout caps. While a low premium may seem attractive, it might not offer the best value if the deductible is excessively high.
Choose a top-rated provider: Read reviews — like our list of the best pet insurance companies — and ask friends and family for their recommendations. Opt for a reputable provider known for its responsive customer service.
Plan for the future: Insurance companies adopt various pricing policies as your pet ages. Typically, premiums increase to account for the higher likelihood of medical issues in older pets. Transitioning to a new insurance provider at later stages might pose challenges, particularly due to exclusions on pre-existing conditions. Select a plan that ensures continued support through consistent pricing options and long-term assistance.
Choosing Pet Insurance Coverage
When deciding between accident-only, comprehensive, or preventive care plans, make sure you understand what each option covers. Also, look at what’s not covered, the waiting periods, and the nature of the deductibles — annual or per incident. Evaluate reimbursement levels and check for any payout caps, either annual or lifetime. While low premiums are tempting, the policy's overall value should guide your decision.
Learn more about choosing the right insurance for your pet.
FAQs
How Much Does Pet Insurance Cost?
Pet insurance monthly premiums cost between $10 for basic coverage and over $50 for comprehensive coverage. Prices vary based on your pet’s age, breed, location, the plan, and deductible.
Is Pet Insurance Worth it?
The expense of pet insurance can be justified when weighed against the financial and emotional toll of unforeseen veterinary bills.
Does Pet Insurance Cover Vaccines?
While vaccinations are typically excluded from standard pet insurance policies, they are included in a wellness package, a supplementary plan most insurers offer as an add-on to your basic policy.
What Is the Most Affordable Pet Insurance?
Plans with higher deductibles or lower reimbursement rates are less expensive, but they might not be the best fit if you're looking for comprehensive coverage. Your situation determines which choice is the most cost-effective for you. Factors such as your pet’s breed and age, whether you have a dog or cat, and your specific coverage needs influence the cost. To find an affordable policy that suits your pet’s needs, compare multiple quotes from different insurance providers.
