The Ultimate Guide To Pet Insurance: Everything You Need To Know

Are you a pet owner? If so, you know that pets can be expensive to take care of. The costs can add up quickly, from vet bills to food, toys, and more. That’s why it’s essential to have pet insurance coverage. This guide will discuss everything you need about cat and dog insurance. We’ll cover what it is, how it works, the different types of coverage available, and more!

What Is Pet Insurance?

A pet insurance policy generally is a type of insurance (similar to human health insurance) that helps pet parents cover the costs of their pet’s care. For example, it can help pay vet bills, medication, and more. Various pet medical insurance plans are available, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs.

How Does Pet Insurance Work?

How does pet health insurance work? Pet insurance works by you paying a monthly premium. This premium is based on your pet’s age, breed, and health history. In addition, you will pay a copay or deductible if your pet needs medical care. The insurance company will then reimburse you for the remaining costs.

Best Pet Insurance Companies

Some of the best pet insurance providers include:

MetLife Pet Insurance

Why we picked it: MetLife offers a customizable pet insurance plan with a minimum coverage of $500 to unlimited annual coverage. Additionally, MetLife cat and dog insurance company offers many discounts for selected groups of people.

Pros

• Family plans for up to 3 dogs and cats are available
• Accident coverage options are available and start right after purchasing a policy
• Mobile app with 24/7 telehealth concierge chat available
• Up to 100% of bills reimbursed

Cons

• Pre-existing conditions may not be covered
• Claims are processed up to 10 days

Overview: MetLife Pet Insurance is the perfect way to take impeccable care of your pet and finances. You can customize a plan that works for you, starting at just $29! Plus, claims are simple and fast–you can get reimbursement in two weeks or less with our hassle-free process. Remember the convenient mobile app; get a quote within minutes! MetLife Pet Insurance has all your needs covered without breaking the bank.

Age restrictions: No restrictions.

Plans available: Standard plan and Preventive Care plan.

What Is Covered By POLICY?

MetLife pet insurance Preventive Care plan covers the following:

• Preventive care (including annual exams and routine vaccines)
• Spraying and neutering
• Parasite prevention (heartworm, flea, tick medication)
• Dental work (cleaning and anesthesia)

MetLife also offers a Standard policy plan which is dedicated to:

• Accidents and illnesses (broken bones, poisoning, cancer, gum disease, etc.)
• Exams and prescriptions
• Procedure and diagnosis (x-rays, surgeries, etc.)
• Holistic or alternative therapies

Figo

Why we picked it: Figo’s pet insurance costs a bit more than others on our list. However, for the price, you get a lot of benefits, fast claims, and an intuitive app. Although the pet insurance company doesn’t offer coverage options for hereditary diseases, if your pet doesn’t show any signs of pre-existing conditions within 12 months, the policy provider may qualify you for coverage.

Pros

• Claims are processed within 3 working days
• Mobile app has free 24/7 access to certified vets
• 1-day waiting period for accidents
• Up to 100% reimbursement
• Offers personalized pet tag in case your furry friend goes missing

Cons

• Pre-existing conditions aren’t covered (if the pet is enrolled after 2nd birthday)

Overview: Figo pet insurance base plans cover emergency care, surgery, etc. This includes diagnostics, treatment, and prescription coverage to help your pet feel better. In addition, Wellness Powerup covers exams, vaccines, and other routine care for happy and healthy pets.

Age restrictions: Pet insurance coverage is available for pets aged 8 weeks and older.

Plans available: Standard plan with optional riders (Wellness coverage and Vet Exam Fees).

What Is Covered By Policy?

Figo is one of the best pet insurance companies, with an extensive insurance plan that includes:

• Chronic conditions (that aren’t pre-existing) coverage
• Wellness coverage and preventive care
• Accident and illness coverage
• Cancer treatment costs
• Dental illnesses
• Surgeries
• Holistic and alternative treatments

Additionally, Figo offers riders you may find useful and cost-saving in the long run:

• Wellness coverage – Money back for exams and vaccines.
• Veterinary exam fees – Exam fees are covered, along with a vet consultation fee, diagnosis, and treatment beyond preventive care.

ASPCA

Why we picked it: ASPCA pet health insurance company offers three coverage plans that are well-priced. A comprehensive plan includes coverage for behavioral issues treatment that isn’t offered by competitors.

Pros

• You can visit any vet in the US or Canada
• 10% discount for an additional pet
• Up to 90% cashback
• Affordable accidents-only plan
• No need for vet exams or medical records for enrollment

Cons

• Claims are simple to file but may take up to 30 days to process

Overview: Every pet is different and doesn’t need the same coverage. They have other plans that can be customized to fit your pet’s needs. Also, cats and dogs are unique, so their coverage should be unique too!

Age restrictions: Pet insurance coverage is available for pets aged 8 weeks and older.

Plans available: Complete coverage, accidents only, and Preventive Care plan.

What Is Covered By Policy?

ASPCA offers three pet insurance policies. Let’s see what each of them covers:

• Comprehensive coverage:
  • Accident and illness
  • Hereditary and congenital conditions
  • Chronic conditions
  • Alternative therapies
  • Microchip implantation
  • Prescription medication, supplements, and food
• Accidents-only:
  • Unexpected vet bills
• Preventive care coverage (Basic):
  • Annual wellness exam
  • Dental care
  • Deworming
  • Fecal test
  • Rabies or Lyme/FIP vaccine/titer
  • More preventive care options available with a Prime plan

Healthy Paws

Why we picked it: Healthy Paws pet insurance offers unlimited annual coverage and a simple claim processing procedure. The insurance provider has only one simple-to-understand policy, and it is for accidents only.

Pros

• 2-day claim processing
• No maximum annual payouts

Cons

• No Wellness or Preventive Plans
• No pre-existing condition coverage

Overview: Healthy Paws is a great way to ensure your pet gets medical care. Their top-rated cat and dog insurance plans cover accidents, illnesses, cancer, emergency care, genetic and hereditary conditions, pet breed-specific conditions, and alternative care.

Age restrictions: No maximum age limit.

Plans available: Accidents-only.

What Is Covered By POLICY?

Healthy Paws insurance company covers the following:

• Medically necessary treatment when your furry friend develops an illness
• Unforeseen injury treatment (only after 15 days after the activation of the policy)

Pets Best

Why we picked it: Pets Best offers comprehensive plans, including accident and illness plans and accident-only policies. You can also opt for a Wellness plan with routine vet check-ups and essential shots covered for your pup or kitten.

Pros

• Customizable insurance policies
• Unlimited annual coverage
• Can pay directly to your vet instead of reimbursement
• R24/7 telehealth line

Cons

• Does not cover preventive procedures
• Parasite testing and treatment are not included
• Holistic and alternative therapies are not part of insurance plans (with the exception of acupuncture, cold laser therapy, physical therapy, and hydrotherapy)

Overview: Pets Best offers insurance policies that cover accidents. This includes if your pet swallows a new chew toy, breaks a bone, or needs surgery. You can also add pet wellness and routine care coverage to help pay for annual check-ups, vaccinations, etc.

Age restrictions: Pet insurance coverage is available for pets aged 7 weeks and older.

Plans available: Accident and illness plan, accidents-only, and Wellness plan.

What Is Covered By Policy?

Accident and illness policy includes:

• Accidents
• Illnesses
• Emergency care
• Cancer and chronic conditions
• Hereditary and congenital conditions

In addition, dog and cat wellness plans cover vaccinations, deworming, and other routine care services. Pets Best insurance company will budget check-ups and shots needed during the pets’ first years. You can also choose between EssentialWellness and BestWellness, depending on your needs.

Embrace

Why we picked it: Embrace is one of the pet insurance companies that distinguish between curable and incurable conditions. The insurance provider covers treatment costs for curable conditions even before they occur before enrollment.

Pros

• 24/7 pet health support
• 10% multi-pet discount
• Offers preventive care with wellness rewards (purchased separately)

Cons

• Pre-existing conditions aren’t covered

Overview: Embrace pet insurance agency covers your pet in the event of an illness or injury. Embrace also offers routine and preventive care coverage for your pet.

Age restrictions: Minimum age is 6 weeks. Pets aged 14 and younger are eligible for accident and illness coverage. Older pets are eligible only for accident coverage.

Plans available: Accident and illness coverage, Accident-only, Wellness plan.

What Is Covered By Policy?

Embrace pet insurance company covers pretty much everything, with the exception of pre-existing conditions. Their comprehensive plan includes:

• Dental care
• Cancer testing and treatment
• Preventable conditions (Lyme disease, parvo, etc.)
• Orthopedic conditions
• Emergency care
• Hospitalization and surgeries
• Prescription drugs

Trupanion

Why we picked it: Trupanion is among pet insurance companies that can pet vet directly if you cannot afford the bill. Although the company has higher premiums, you know that your furry friend will get medical assistance paid for at once without you saving up for the surgery or injury treatment.

Pros

• Unlimited annual coverage
• Pays for vet directly
• Premiums remain the same as your pet gets older

Cons

• Higher than usual premiums
• Only one plan option

Overview: We will now cover all new injuries and illnesses. The hospital will get paid directly, so you don’t have to worry about reimbursement. And we will continue to pay for your pet’s care for the rest of their life.

Age restrictions: The maximum age limit is 13 years.

Plans available: Accident and illness.

What Is Covered By Policy?

Trupanion’s insurance policy covers unexpected injuries and illnesses, even if there is an unidentified issue. Hereditary conditions like elbow and hip dysplasia, diabetes, and upper respiratory infections are also reimbursed by the insurance provider.

Surgeries and hospitalization, along with alternative therapies and medications, are also included in the policy.

Petplan

Why we picked it: Petplan could be the only one on the list that doesn’t increase premiums as your pet gets older. Additionally, their pet insurance can be purchased for rabbits, horses, and other exotic animals.

Pros

• Physical and online consultations
• Behavioral conditions covered
• Easy claims paid up to 90%

Cons

• Preventive care is not included
• Pre-existing conditions are not covered
• Treatments for more than 12 months are not covered

Overview: PetPlan offers comprehensive coverage that includes health advice from licensed vets in the U.S. and Canada. We have a 4.5 out of 5-star rating on Trustpilot, which means our customers are happy with our service. Plus, there are no fees or add-ons, and you can cancel your policy.

Age restrictions: No maximum age limit.

Plans available: Accident and illness.

What Is Covered By Policy?

Petplan has a 12-month and lifetime Accident and illness coverage that includes:

• Dental care
• Surgery and rehabilitation
• Emergency care
• Diagnostic treatments
• Cancer treatments
• Prescription medication
• Scans
• Behavioral conditions
• Accidents and illnesses

Essentially, both 12-month and lifetime policies cover the same things but vary in coverage amounts.

Nationwide

Why we picked it: Nationwide provides insurance for a wide range of pets, not just dogs and cats, and that’s what distinguishes the company from the others. The company also offers both customizable plans and comprehensive alternatives.

Pros

• Discount for multiple pets
• Comprehensive plans available
• Covers pets other than cats and dogs

Cons

• 14-day waiting period
• Does not include pre-existing conditions

Overview: Nationwide’s plans start from $35/month, and you can use any vet. This policy already protects more than a million pets.

Age restrictions: Some plans may have a maximum age limit of 8 or 9 years. Others have no restrictions. The minimum age limit is 8 weeks.

Plans available: Accident, Illness, and Wellness.

What Is Covered By Policy?

Accident plans pretty much cover unforeseen injuries such as broken bones, heatstroke, and bee or snake bites.

An illness coverage plan can reimburse money for treating ear infections, heart disease, cancer, diarrhea, and allergies.

Wellness plans, on the other hand, reimburse money for vaccinations, fecal tests, deworming, flea control, and health screening.

American Modern Insurance Group

Why we picked it: We chose American Modern Insurance Group for pets because it offers a customizable policy that can be tailored according to your needs and budget. Some of the riders are optional, and insuring multiple pets earns you an attractive discount.

Pros

• Up to 90% reimbursement
• Healthy pet deductibles available
• 24/7 pet health line

Cons

• Does not cover pre-existing conditions treatment
• Preventive care is not included

Overview: American Modern Insurance Company can help pay for your dog’s or cat’s costs if they get sick or hurt. If your pet needs to go to the vet, the insurance company will pay up to 90% of the bill.

Age restrictions: No maximum age limit.

Plans available: Embrace Pet insurance.

What Is Covered By Policy?

Embrace Pet insurance covers the following:

• Accidents and illnesses
• Genetic and breed-specific conditions
• Cancer treatment
• Alternative therapies and rehabilitation
• ER and specialist care
• Diagnostic testing and imaging
• Prescription medication
• Dental care (up to $1,000 per policy year)
• Vet exam fees

Independence American Insurance Company

Why we picked it: Independence American Insurance Company has been giving peace of mind to cat and dog owners for over 20 years. The insurance provider has flexible plans and lets you customize your policy.

Pros

• Up to 90% reimbursement
• Annual deductibles range from $100 to $1,000
• Customizable plans

Cons

• Customizing your policy may cost extra

Overview: Independence American Insurance Company helps you quickly get coverage for your pet. We also have some of the best policies in the industry, with shorter waiting periods and better coverage for curable pre-existing conditions. You can also get optional add-on policies to meet your specific needs.

Age restrictions: No maximum age limit.

Plans available: Accident and illness policies and Accident-only.

What Is Covered By POLICY?

The accident and Illness plan covers conditions like:

• Allergies
• Toxin ingestion
• Digestive issues
• Cancer
• ACL injuries
• IVDD
• UTIs
• and many more!

You can also get cashback for diagnostic treatments and emergency care.

The accident-only policy typically pays for:

• Broken bones
• Bite wounds
• Sprains
• Eye injuries
• Snake bite
• Bee stings

Insurance Agencies

Metlife pet insurance, Geico, Allstate, State Farm, Progressive, and Delaware Insurance Company offer insurance through these companies.

Veterinarians

Banfield, Petsmart, and Petco offer plans.

Club Memberships

Costco, BJ’s, USAA, and Sam’s Club offer coverage for their members.

What Types Of Coverage Are Available?

There are a few different types of pet insurance coverage available. The most common is comprehensive plan coverage, which helps cover various medical expenses, including exam fees, vet visit, emergency care, accident, and illness coverage. As the name suggests, there are also accident-only plans, which only cover accidents. Some complete coverage plans also offer wellness coverage, which helps pay for routine care like vaccinations and check-ups.

Rehabilitation Coverage

Rehabilitation coverage helps cover the costs of physical therapy, hydrotherapy, and more. This can be an excellent option for pets injured or dealing with a chronic illness.

Emergency Care Coverage

Emergency care coverage helps pay for unexpected veterinary expenses, like if your pet needs surgery or has been in an accident. This type of coverage typically has a higher deductible than comprehensive plans.

Hospitalization and Surgery Coverage

Hospitalization and surgery coverage help pay for your pet’s hospital stay and any necessary surgeries. This type of coverage typically has a higher deductible than comprehensive plans.

Specialist Care Coverage

Specialist care coverage helps pay for visiting a specialist, like a cardiologist or an oncologist. This type of coverage typically has a higher deductible than comprehensive plans.

Diagnostic Testing Coverage

Diagnostic testing coverage helps pay for X-rays, MRIs, and other diagnostic tests. This type of coverage typically has a higher deductible than comprehensive plans.

Prescription Drugs Coverage

Prescription drug coverage helps pay for your pet’s prescription medications. In addition, this type of coverage typically has a lower deductible than comprehensive plans.

What Are The Benefits Of A Pet Insurance Policy?

Pet medical insurance coverage benefits are peace of mind and financial protection if your pet becomes ill or injured. With insurance, you can choose the coverage that best meets your needs and budget, and you will have peace of mind knowing that your pet is protected.

• Dental Illness and Injury Coverage: One of the most common claims filed with pet insurance companies is for dental illness or injury. Dental coverage helps reimburse you for your pet’s dental care, including cleaning, x-rays, and more.
• Breed-Specific, Congenital, and Genetic Conditions: Certain breeds of dogs and cats are prone to specific health conditions. For example, Boxers are susceptible to hip dysplasia, and Golden Retrievers are prone to cancer. Some insurance companies offer breed-specific coverage for these conditions. Additionally, many pet plans cover congenital and genetic conditions.
• Cancer Treatment Coverage: Cancer is one of the leading causes of death in pets. Pet insurance can help cover the costs of your pet’s cancer treatment, including chemotherapy, radiation, and more.
• Chronic Conditions: Chronic conditions are those that are recurring or long-term. They can include conditions like diabetes, arthritis, and more. Many of the best pet insurance plans cover chronic conditions.
• Preventable Conditions: Routine care can prevent preventable conditions like vaccinations and flea/tick prevention. In addition, some pet plans cover avoidable conditions.
• Orthopedic Conditions: Orthopedic conditions are those that affect the bones or joints. They can include conditions like hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and more. Many pet plans cover orthopedic conditions.

Choosing the Right Pet Insurance Plan

When choosing the best pet insurance plan, you should keep a few things in mind. First, consider what type of coverage you need. For example, you might not require comprehensive coverage if your pet is healthy and unlikely to need much medical care. However, getting a more comprehensive plan might be good if your pet has health problems or is prone to accidents.

You should also consider your budget when choosing an insurance plan. For example, pet policies can be expensive, so you’ll want to ensure you can afford the monthly premium. You should also consider the copay or deductible and be comfortable with it.

Finally, please read the fine print of any insurance policy before you purchase it. This will help you understand what is and isn’t covered.

Types Of Pet Insurance Plans

There are a few different types of pet insurance plans available.

• Comprehensive Pet Insurance Coverage: This is the most popular type of policy. It helps cover various medical expenses for your pet, including vet bills, medication, preventative care, etc.
• Illness-Only Coverage: This type of policy only covers illnesses. It doesn’t cover accidents or routine care. This might be a good option if your pet has chronic health problems or you’re on a budget.
• Routine Care Coverage: This type of policy helps cover the costs of routine care, like vaccinations, teeth cleaning, and more. This might be a good option if you want to supplement your comprehensive coverage or are on a budget.
• Accident-Only Coverage: This type of accident policy only covers accidents. If your pet becomes ill, you will not be covered.
• Accident and Illness Coverage: This coverage covers accidents and illness but does not cover wellness and routine check-ups.
• Wellness Coverage: This policy helps pay for care like vaccinations and check-ups. However, it does not cover accidents or illnesses.

Why Do I Need Pet Medical Insurance?

Is pet insurance worth it? There are a few reasons why you might need pet healthcare insurance.

• Pet owners can help you pay a vet bill: If your pet becomes ill or has an accident, the costs can quickly add up, including emergency care. Pet healthcare insurance can help reduce these sudden costs.
• Pet healthcare insurance can give a pet parent peace of mind: You’ll know you’re covered if something happens to your pet. This can help you focus on your pet’s recovery instead of worrying about the financial implications.
• Pet healthcare insurance can help you budget for your pet’s care: You can spread the cost of your pet’s care over time by paying a monthly premium. This can make it easier to afford your pet’s needs, such as a vet visit and wellness benefits.

The Pros And Cons Of A Pet Insurance Policy

There are a few pros and cons to pet insurance.

Pros:

• It can help you pay for unexpected vet bills
• It can give you peace of mind
• It can help you budget for your pet’s care

Cons:

• Can be expensive
• It may not cover everything
• The fine print can be confusing

What Is The Cost Of A Pet Insurance Policy?

Pet health insurance costs vary depending on the coverage type, the deductible you select, the copay options, and the age and pet breed. For example, a cheap policy for a young, healthy dog with accident-only coverage may cost as little as $15 per month, while a policy for an older dog with comprehensive coverage may cost $100 per month or more.

Are There Any Pet Insurance Discounts Available?

Some pet health insurance companies offer discounts for multi-pet households, spaying/neutering, obedience training, annual pay discount, etc. Check with your chosen pet insurance company to see what discounts are available.

What Are The Exclusions Of Pet Insurance Policies?

Most pet health insurance policies exclude coverage for a pre-existing condition, routine visits (such as vaccinations and check-ups), cosmetic procedures, and experimental treatments. Some policies also have a waiting period for coverage to begin. So be sure to read the fine print of any policy you’re considering.

How Do I Get Pet Insurance?

Pet health insurance through various insurers, such as 24PetWatch, Petsmart, Banfield Pet Hospital, Petco, Pets Best, AKC, Costco, Sam’s Club, B.J.’s Wholesale Club, and more. You can also get a pet insurance quote through your veterinarian or by shopping around online.

Conclusion

Pet insurance is a great way to help cover the costs of your pet’s care. You can choose the right plan by understanding how it works and what types of coverage are available. So don’t wait. Get started finding the best pet insurance provider for your furry friend today!

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Contact us for a pet insurance quote for your dog or cat. The service is free of charge.

Frequently Asked Questions

*Disclosure: Some of the links in this guide may be affiliate links. I may receive a commission at no cost if you purchase a policy. It helps us keep the lights on!