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Your Choice of Vetinsured their pet via BestMoney this week
Pet insurance is health insurance for pets. It typically covers medical care for accidents, like leg breaks, cuts, and eye pokes, and illnesses, like cancer, kennel cough, and canine influenza.
This coverage is becoming increasingly essential as veterinary service costs continue to rise—they increased by 7.9% between 2023 and 2024 . This inflation is especially noticeable in emergency care, where complex procedures like emergency surgery can run from $2,000 to over $10,000.
There are also specialized pet insurance policies or add-ons that cover preventative care, like annual checkups, vaccines, dental cleanings, and spaying or neutering procedures.
 | Customizable coverage for puppies and kittens |
Unlike traditional health insurance, pet insurance plans generally require that you pay out-of-pocket for your pet's medical care and file a claim for reimbursement. However, a few insurers, like Pets Best and Trupanion, offer a vet direct pay option.
How much you’ll ultimately get reimbursed depends largely on the following policy terms:
Coverage limits: The maximum amount the insurer covers in a given year; annual coverage limits generally range from $2,500 to unlimited.
Deductible: The amount of money you'll pay before coverage kicks in; pet insurance deductibles generally range from $0 to $2,500.
Reimbursement rate: The percentage an insurer will pay for each covered claim, once your deductible is met; reimbursement rates are generally 70%, 80%, or 90%.
To get coverage, you’ll make a monthly or annual payment, known as the policy’s premium. Higher coverage limits, higher reimbursement rates, and lower deductibles lead to higher premiums than lower coverage limits, lower reimbursement rates, and higher deductibles.
The best time to get pet insurance is when your pet is young and healthy. Most pet insurance providers do not cover pre-existing conditions, meaning any illness or injury diagnosed before your policy starts — or during the waiting period — will likely be excluded from coverage.
Enrolling early helps lock in lower premiums and ensures your pet is protected before costly conditions develop. Puppies and kittens are generally cheaper to insure because they’re less likely to need medical care, and there’s less chance of exclusions limiting future claims.
That said, senior pet insurance for older dogs and senior cats can still be a good idea. Many insurers accept pets well into their senior years, though premiums tend to be higher and some plans may impose coverage limits or longer waiting periods. For older pets, accident-and-illness plans can still provide valuable financial protection against unexpected emergencies or serious diagnoses.
 | Customized pet coverage for your needs |
Consider the following steps to find the coverage you need at an affordable price.
| Pick a Plan Type | An accident-and-illness plan best serves most pet parents as it provides the most coverage, though senior dogs or cats might be priced out of coverage. |
|---|---|
| Compare Quotes | Get a quote from multiple carriers for the same coverage amount and deductible, then compare prices, but don't simply opt for the cheapest offer. Instead |
| Read the Fine Print | Explore the terms and conditions to ensure you're comparing apples to apples. Pay close attention to policy exclusions, waiting periods, veterinarian restrictions, and cancellation policies. |
| Understand the Claims Process | Know your options for filing a claim and how long you might expect reimbursement. Also, determine if there is a vet direct pay option — and, if so, how to qualify. |
| Explore Customizations | If the monthly cost exceeds your budget, consider opting for a different deductible, reimbursement rate, or coverage limit. |
| Look for Discounts | Check for multi-pet, military, spay/neuter, annual payment, and bundling discounts. (Learn additional ways to reduce your pet insurance costs.) |
“I recommend pet owners understand different choices for percentage reimbursement, deductible levels if there are any waiting periods, and if there are any annual or per-incident maximums … Additionally, pet owners should review sample policies on the website to understand what is covered and what is excluded. Comparison tools help to highlight how provider coverage differs”
When comparing pet insurance providers, price alone doesn’t tell the full story. Two plans with similar monthly premiums can deliver very different value depending on how coverage is structured.
Key features to compare include:
Deductibles: Lower deductibles increase monthly premiums but reduce out-of-pocket costs when filing claims.
Reimbursement rates: Most insurers offer 70%, 80%, or 90% reimbursement after the deductible is met.
Annual coverage limits: Some plans cap payouts at $2,500–$5,000 per year, while others offer unlimited coverage.
Coverage scope: Look for plans that include hereditary, congenital, and chronic conditions.
Wellness add-ons: Optional plans may help offset routine care like vaccines, dental cleanings, and annual exams.
Direct vet pay options: Some insurers can pay veterinarians directly, reducing upfront expenses.
Comparing these features side by side helps ensure you’re choosing a plan that aligns with both your budget and your pet’s long-term health needs.
“As you look over these plans, please be sure to focus on coverage limits and exclusions. Also, pay attention to when policies actually begin and will pay out benefits. This can help you avoid unwanted financial surprises and make the most informed decision for your furry friend.”
What Does Pet Insurance Cover?
Pet insurance covers some of your pet's medical bills, but the type of health care expenses your policy will pay for depends on your plan type.
These plans cover treatment for injuries incurred as a result of an accident, including, but not limited to:
Broken bones
Lacerations
Poisoning
Swallowed objects
Burns
These plans cover treatments for accidental injuries and medical illnesses, including, but not limited to:
Cancer
Allergies
Diabetes
Arthritis
Parvovirus
Typically sold as an add-on, pet wellness plans help cover routine and preventive care such as:
Annual exams
Vaccinations
Dental cleanings
Spaying/neutering procedures
Medications for flea and tick or heartworm prevention
Pet insurance that covers dental care is usually offered through wellness plan add-ons, though coverage is often limited to cleanings and preventive care rather than advanced dental procedures.
| Customizable coverage for puppies and kittens |  View Plans |
Almost all pet insurance plans exclude certain types of care. While exclusions vary, they often include:
Pregnancy or breeding-related expenses
Cosmetic procedures
Care related to owner negligence
Genetic testing
Most policies also include waiting periods. Accident waiting periods typically range from one to 14 days, while illness waiting periods are usually 14 to 30 days. Some conditions, such as hip dysplasia, may have longer waiting periods.
Pet owners often search for pet insurance for pre-existing conditions, but it’s important to understand that most pet insurance plans do not cover pre-existing conditions. In general, pet insurance that covers pre-existing conditions is extremely limited, and what pet insurance covers pre-existing conditions depends on whether a condition is considered curable, temporary, or permanently excluded by the insurer.
Learn more about what pet insurance does and doesn’t cover.
The average monthly cost for an accident and illness policy is $59.73. Cat insurance costs typically range between $29.46 and $56.60 per month, while dog insurance averages between $50.28 and $102.26 per month.
Cheap pet insurance plans do exist, but the most affordable pet insurance options often come with higher deductibles, lower reimbursement rates, or coverage limits that reduce payouts for expensive treatments.
The cost of pet insurance varies by the terms of your policy, but it’s also affected by your pet’s age, type, breed, location, gender, and other personal information.
For instance, young pets are typically cheaper to insure as they're less prone to illness. Conversely, pets in areas with a high living cost are generally more expensive to insure as local vet bills are pricier.
Beyond that, some breeds are more prone to congenital or hereditary diseases than others or are known to engage in riskier behaviors that lead to injuries. These breeds typically cost more to insure.
 | No maximum annual or lifetime payout limits |
A study from AdvisorSmith found the following breeds rank among the most costlier to insure:
Rottweilers:
$1,489 per year
English bulldogs:
$1,395 per year
Doberman pinschers:
$1,347 per year
French bulldogs
: $1,328 per year
Boxers:
$1,238 per year
AdvisorSmith found the following feline breeds are among the most costlier to insure:
Exotic cat:
$528 per year
Devon rex:
$513 per year
Absynnian:
$473 per year
Maine coon:
$462 per year
Scottish fold:
$538 per year
The past five years have seen significant changes in the pet health industry. According to a recent study, nearly a quarter of pet owners reported increased pet care costs in the past year, driven by inflation, higher veterinary staff wages, and the high cost of new medications.
Additionally, over a third of pet owners said it would be financially challenging to pay for a minor operation for their pet.
These factors have led to increased demand for pet insurance and higher premiums, up to 20% in the last year. It's crucial for pet owners to research, compare policies, and consider the costs of pet insurance so that they're not taken advantage of.
Not all pet insurance policies offer the same level of protection, and certain plan features can significantly limit your coverage when you need it most.
Common pitfalls to watch for include:
No coverage for hereditary or breed-specific conditions
High deductibles paired with low annual limits
Exclusions for chronic or long-term conditions
Vague definitions of pre-existing conditions
No direct vet payment options
Lengthy or condition-specific waiting periods
Understanding these limitations upfront can help you avoid unpleasant surprises later.
What Reddit Users Say About Finding the Best Pet Insurance
To understand the real-world experiences of pet owners with insurance, we delved into online discussions, analyzing over 200 user comments from recent Reddit posts specifically focusing on pet insurance choices and company experiences.
Here’s a summary of the key insights shared by everyday people:
Navigating pet insurance can be complex, but Reddit users offer valuable real-world advice. A primary motivator for many is peace of mind against potentially crippling vet bills. As one vet tech shared:
"I can tell you this, no one ever regrets having pet insurance when they need it, but plenty regret putting it off or not getting it at all."
- KasparTheresa
While some suggest a dedicated savings account, many users argue it's challenging to accumulate enough for major, unexpected emergencies, especially early in a pet's life. One user questioned the savings approach:
"This in theory is great, but who really puts aside $20,000 for pet health?... Also, what happens if you adopt a dog or cat and they get sick or need a surgery within the first year or two?"
- Possible_You_4637
Understanding the policy's mechanics, like deductibles, reimbursement rates, and annual limits is paramount. One knowledgeable user broke it down:
"The deductible is the portion of the vet bill you’re responsible for paying before the provider pays out or reimburses your claim. [...] The reimbursement is the percentage of a claim eligible for repayment... The payout limit is the most money a pet insurer will reimburse..."
- canine_journal
Redditors also highlight the practical realities: expect premiums to rise as your pet ages, and insure them early to avoid pre-existing condition exclusions.
"Yes also, you might think if you get early rates will stay the same, this is false. They will increase almost every year."
- isitfiveyet
"Cannot have any pre-existing conditions pop up or else those may not be covered later so you want to get them insured right away."
- Justanobserver2life
Ultimately, users stress the importance of thoroughly researching policy details and choosing a plan that aligns with your budget and your pet's potential health needs.
| Customized pet coverage for your needs |
Bottom Line: Is Pet Insurance Worth It?
Pet insurance can provide valuable financial protection and peace of mind, especially as veterinary care becomes more advanced — and more expensive. Emergency surgeries, specialty treatments, and chronic illness management can easily cost thousands of dollars.
This financial security translates directly into better care: a 2024 study showed that insured dogs visit the veterinarian 4.2 times per year on average, compared to just 2.4 times for uninsured dogs, and are 51% more likely to receive surgical treatment when needed.
While insurance isn’t the right fit for every pet owner, it often proves worthwhile for pets with higher health risks, breeds prone to illness, or households that want protection from unpredictable vet bills. Comparing policies carefully and choosing coverage that fits your budget is key to making pet insurance work in your favor.
Learn more about how to determine if pet insurance is worth it.
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We offer a wide range of services including detailed comparison tools and expert reviews, all designed to meet your specific financial needs. Our mission is to empower you to make confident, well-informed choices that help you achieve your financial goals.
FAQ about Pet Insurance
Spot Pet Insurance offers the best travel coverage for pets. It lets you visit any licensed vet in the U.S. or abroad, provides up to 90% reimbursement, and includes 24/7 telehealth support for emergencies while traveling. Generally, the best travel insurance for pets includes emergency medical coverage while traveling.
Spot Pet Insurance is the most worth it overall, compared to other pet insurers. It combines flexible plans, comprehensive coverage, and fast claims, while Embrace and Pets Best also offer strong value depending on your pet’s age and needs.
We've found that pet parents typically pay around $60 per month or $720 per year for a pet insurance policy, but the exact cost varies depending on factors such as pet type, age, location, and more. For instance, cats generally cost less to insure than dogs, and breeds prone to illness, like French bulldogs, are more expensive than less risky breeds, like mixes.
You can often find a policy in your budget by selecting a higher deductible or reimbursement rate, although this requires you to pay more out of pocket for care.
Pet insurers generally ask for at least one year's worth of veterinary records when you apply for a policy or file your first claim. Some insurers require a medical exam within 30 days or so of buying a plan. During this exam or records review, the insurer will identify pre-existing conditions.
Typically, pet insurance is not tax-deductible, though there are exceptions for service animals.
Some carriers also cover amphibians, reptiles, birds, small mammals, and horses, though these coverages are less common. ASPCA Pet Health, for instance, offers horse insurance, while Nationwide will insure exotic pets
We've found that Lemonade, Pets Best, Figo, and CarePlus by Chewy offer particularly competitive rates for dog insurance. However, the best insurance for your dog may vary by pet type, location, and other personal information. It's helpful to compare pet insurance quotes from multiple top insurers to find the best policy for your canine.
Pets can benefit from insurance at any age. Kittens and puppies may need accident coverage, while older pets may need illness coverage. Wellness care add-ons benefit pets of all ages. Getting pet insurance as soon as possible is often worthwhile as younger cats or dogs are cheaper to insure (given they're less likely to develop an illness), and there's less time for a pre-existing condition to develop.
| Insurance Provider | Explore | |
|---|---|---|
| | Our top pick for policy customizations | Visit Site |
Annual coverage limits: $2,500, $3,000, $4,000, $5,000, $7,000, $10,000, unlimited
Reimbursement rates: 70%, 80%, 90%
Deductibles: $100, $250, $500, $750, $1,000
Why we picked Spot as a top pet insurer: Count Spot as one of the most well-rounded pet insurers on the market. There are many reasons why Spot is ranked the best pet insurance on our list. It has affordable pricing, an industry-leading choice of seven annual coverage limits, and solid customer service scores.
In fact, Spot’s 4.7 Trustpilot score is matched only by Pumpkin and its BBB customer review score is the highest among the pet insurers we reviewed.
Customer service at a glance
Trustpilot score: 4.7
BBB rating: A- (accredited)
Common complaints? Unexpected claim denials, slow reimbursements
Common praise? Easy claim processing, compassionate customer service reps
Contact channels: Phone, email (provided to policyholders), online complaint form
| Insurance Provider | Explore | |
|---|---|---|
 | Our top pick for extra ways to save | Visit Site |
Annual coverage limits: $5,000, $8,000, $10,000, $15,000, unlimited
Note: Accident-only plans are capped at $5,000. Higher limits apply only to accident-and-illness plans.
Reimbursement rates: 70%, 80%, 90%
Deductibles: $100, $250, $500, $750, $1,000
Why we picked Embrace as a top pet insurer: Embrace offers affordable base rates with plenty of extra ways to save on coverage, including a 10% multi-pet discount, a 5% military discount, and $12 off for paying annually. It’ll also lower your annual deductible by $50 each year that you don't receive a claim reimbursement.
Plus, Embrace has an industry-leading zero-day waiting period for accidents and a competitive 14-day waiting period for illnesses, on par with only MetLife, which offers similar short timeframes before coverage starts.
Embrace also offers a customizable accident-and-illness coverage, which provides five annual coverage limit options for your pet, including unlimited annual coverage. With unlimited annual coverage, there’s no yearly limit on reimbursements once you’ve met your deductible.
Customer service at a glance
Trustpilot score: 4.0
BBB rating: A+ (accredited)
Common complaints? Premium increases, confusing claim denials
Common praise? Intuitive mobile app, simple claims processing
Contact channels: Phone, AI chat
| Insurance Provider | Explore | |
|---|---|---|
 | Our top pick for broad coverage | Visit Site |
Annual coverage limits: $2,500, $5,000, $7,000, $10,000, unlimited
Note: Unlimited is available only on specific tiers and may not apply to accident-only or base plans. Confirm availability by plan level.
Reimbursement rates: 70%, 80%, 90%
Deductibles: $100, $250, $500
Why we picked ASPCA Pet Health as a top pet insurer: ASPCA is another notably well-rounded pet insurer, offering all major pet plan types with plenty of customization options to help you stay on budget.
Its affordable pricing is particularly noteworthy, given its base accident-and-illness plan covers some commonly excluded care, like behavioral issues, alternative therapies, and congenital conditions. ASPCA Pet Health also covers “curable” pre-existing conditions if your pet goes 180 days without symptoms (one of the shortest windows for this type of coverage on the market, on par with Spot and Pumpkin).
Customer service at a glance
Trustpilot score: 4.0
BBB rating: Not rated
Common complaints? Difficult to cancel coverage, significant premium increases
Common praise? Responsive customer service reps, easy claims processing
Contact channels: Phone, email