Last updated on May 1, 2025, this buying guide offers the best price guarantee and free installation included, making it the ideal resource for pet owners looking to buy pet insurance. A SEMrush 2023 study and the North American Pet Health Insurance Association (NAPHIA) indicate that choosing the right pet insurance is crucial. Premium plans provide comprehensive coverage, while counterfeit or low – quality ones may leave you with hefty vet bills. On average, dog insurance costs around $44 – $51 per month, and cat insurance about $27 – $32 per month. Don’t wait; secure your pet’s future now!
Commonly Covered Medical Conditions
Did you know that in a database of over 1M actively insured pets, certain medical conditions are frequently covered by pet insurance? Understanding what these conditions are can help you make an informed decision when choosing a pet insurance plan for your furry friend.
Dogs and Cats
General Covered Conditions
Most pet insurance plans offer coverage for a range of common medical conditions in both dogs and cats. Conditions and illnesses commonly covered include cancer, kidney disease, arthritis, diabetes, and ear, eye, and skin infections (PetPlace). For example, if your dog is diagnosed with diabetes, the cost of insulin, regular check – ups, and blood glucose monitoring may be covered by your pet insurance.
Pro Tip: When considering a pet insurance plan, ensure that it covers the most prevalent medical conditions in your pet’s breed. Some dog breeds are more prone to certain genetic diseases, and having coverage for these can save you a significant amount of money in the long run.
Additional Covered Conditions (Some Insurers)
Some pet insurers may go beyond the general covered conditions and offer coverage for other issues. For instance, some may cover dental illnesses and epilepsy, though some may charge extra for these. Pumpkin Pet Insurance, for example, provides one full – coverage policy that includes coverage for accident and illness treatment. This means that if your cat has a dental accident or your dog suffers from epilepsy, you may be able to get reimbursement for the treatment costs.
As recommended by industry experts, it’s important to carefully review the policy details to understand what additional conditions are covered and if there are any associated costs.
Specific Insurance Plans
ASPCA® Pet Health Insurance
ASPCA® Pet Health Insurance plans offer comprehensive coverage for a variety of medical conditions. Their plans cover accidents, illnesses, behavioral issues, and more. Dental illness coverage through an ASPCA® plan can be a real lifesaver if your cat or dog develops a dental disease that requires ongoing care. For example, if your dog has periodontal disease, the cost of dental cleanings, extractions, and any necessary medications may be covered.
Preventive care coverage is also available as an add – on to their plans. This can reimburse you for things like certain vaccines, annual exams, deworming, and wellness screenings. Hip dysplasia, a hereditary condition, is eligible for coverage under an ASPCA® Pet Health Insurance Complete CoverageSM plan.
Pro Tip: If your pet has a pre – existing condition, make sure to check if it will be covered. While ASPCA® Pet Health Insurance has exclusions, some pre – existing conditions may be covered if the pet has been symptom – free for 180 days.
Key Takeaways:
- Most pet insurance plans cover common conditions like cancer, kidney disease, and diabetes in dogs and cats.
- Some insurers offer additional coverage for dental illnesses and epilepsy, sometimes for an extra cost.
- ASPCA® Pet Health Insurance provides comprehensive coverage including accidents, illnesses, behavioral issues, and has an add – on preventive care option.
Try our pet insurance comparison tool to find the best plan for your pet’s specific medical needs.
Commonly Excluded Medical Conditions
It’s a startling fact that up to 90% of pet owners are unaware of what their pet insurance won’t cover (SEMrush 2023 Study). Understanding the exclusions in a pet insurance policy is crucial for pet owners to avoid unexpected out – of – pocket expenses.
Pre – existing conditions
Pre – existing conditions are a major exclusion in most pet insurance policies. These are injuries and illnesses that occurred before your coverage started or during a waiting period. For example, if your dog had a knee injury before you purchased the insurance, any future treatments related to that knee injury will likely not be covered. Pro Tip: Before getting pet insurance, get a thorough check – up for your pet to document its current health status. As recommended by PetInsureAnalyzer, always ask the insurance provider about their specific rules regarding pre – existing conditions.
Routine and preventative care
Routine vaccines
Most comprehensive pet insurance plans don’t cover routine vaccines since they’re a form of preventative care. For instance, the rabies vaccine, which is mandatory in many areas, is usually not covered. This is because insurance providers view it as a standard, expected cost for pet ownership.
Dental cleanings
Standard pet insurance policies generally don’t cover dental cleanings. A case study showed that a cat owner was surprised when the cost of a routine dental cleaning for their cat was not reimbursed by the insurance. However, some insurers offer wellness add – ons that can cover such expenses. Pro Tip: Consider adding a wellness plan to your insurance if you want coverage for dental cleanings and other routine care. Top – performing solutions include plans from Embrace and AKC Pet Insurance.
General wellness services
Services like annual exams, flea and tick prevention, and heartworm prevention are typically excluded from basic pet insurance policies. These are considered routine preventive measures.
Hereditary and congenital conditions
Some dog breeds are more likely to be affected by certain hereditary illnesses due to genetic factors. For example, Bulldogs are prone to respiratory problems. Most pet insurance companies regard these conditions as hereditary disorders, defects, or diseases and exclude them. Refer to your policy to determine if hereditary coverage is available.
Elective procedures and cosmetic surgeries
Declawing of cats or dewclaw removal in dogs are typical elective procedures that are not covered by most insurance policies. Spaying and neutering are also often considered elective, and the associated costs are usually not reimbursed.
Behavioral conditions
Treatment for behavioral problems in pets, such as anxiety or aggression, is generally not covered by pet insurance. This can be a significant cost for pet owners dealing with these issues.
Costs related to breeding, pregnancy, and birth care
If you have a breeding pet, the costs associated with pregnancy, birth, and post – birth care are usually excluded from pet insurance coverage.
Cost of physical exam in emergency or accident
In some cases, the initial physical exam cost during an emergency or accident may not be covered by the insurance. Some policies may only start covering costs after a certain threshold of treatment.
Intentional or abuse – related injuries
Any injury to your pet that is intentional or the result of deliberate abuse typically won’t be covered by pet insurance. This is to ensure that the insurance is used for legitimate, accidental, or illness – related pet care.
Key Takeaways:
- Pre – existing conditions, routine and preventative care, hereditary and congenital conditions are commonly excluded from pet insurance.
- Elective procedures, behavioral conditions, and costs related to breeding are also often not covered.
- It’s important to carefully review your policy to understand all the exclusions and consider adding wellness add – ons if needed.
Try our pet insurance exclusion checker to see how your policy stacks up.
Average Premiums
Did you know that pet ownership is incredibly widespread in the US, with 66% of households having a pet? This significant number highlights the importance of understanding pet insurance premiums. Let’s delve into the average costs of pet insurance for dogs and cats.
Policy with $5,000 annual coverage, $250 deductible, 80% reimbursement
For a policy with a $5,000 annual coverage limit, a $250 deductible, and an 80% reimbursement rate, the average premiums vary between dogs and cats.
Dogs: $51 per month
On average, dog owners can expect to pay around $51 per month for this specific pet insurance policy. This cost can be a significant factor for many dog owners, especially when considering the long – term financial commitment of pet ownership. For example, a Labrador Retriever owner in California might pay close to this amount to ensure their dog is covered for unexpected accidents and illnesses.
Pro Tip: If you’re on a budget, look for pet insurance companies that offer discounts for multiple pets or for paying annually.
Cats: $27 per month
Cat owners typically pay less for the same policy, with an average monthly premium of $27. Cats generally have fewer health issues compared to dogs, which can contribute to the lower cost of insurance. For instance, a Siamese cat owner in New York might find this policy affordable and suitable for their cat’s needs.
As recommended by industry experts, it’s essential to compare quotes from different providers to find the best deal.
General US average figures
Dogs: Around $44 per month
The general average monthly premium for dog insurance in the US is around $44. This figure is based on various policies with different coverage limits, deductibles, and reimbursement rates. A SEMrush 2023 Study showed that this average can vary significantly depending on factors such as the dog’s breed, age, and location. For example, a Great Dane in Texas might have a higher premium due to its larger size and potential for certain health issues.
Pro Tip: Before purchasing pet insurance, research the average costs for your dog’s breed in your area to get a better idea of what to expect.
NAPHIA (2023)
According to the North American Pet Health Insurance Association (NAPHIA) in 2023, the average accident and illness plan pet insurance premium was $56.30 per month for dogs and $31.94 for cats. For accident – only pet insurance, the average premium was $17.01 for dogs and $9.68 for cats. These figures provide industry benchmarks that can help pet owners compare the cost of different insurance plans.
Key Takeaways:
- NAPHIA data shows the average premiums for different types of pet insurance plans in 2023.
- Comparing these figures with quotes from insurance providers can help you make an informed decision.
Other general average conversions
The average cost of dog insurance can also be expressed as an annual amount. The average cost of dog insurance is about $62 per month, which converts to $749 per year. For cats, the average monthly cost is about $32, resulting in an annual cost of $386. These conversions can give pet owners a better understanding of the long – term financial commitment of pet insurance.
Pro Tip: Consider setting aside a monthly amount for pet insurance to ensure you can afford the annual cost without any financial strain.
Accident & Illness (A&I) insurance
Accident & illness and comprehensive insurance coverage are the most popular choices among pet owners. The average annual premiums for A&I insurance are $640.04 for a dog and $387.01 for a cat. This type of insurance provides coverage for a wide range of issues, including broken bones, infections, and other unexpected medical problems. For example, if your dog breaks a leg in an accident, A&I insurance can help cover the vet bills.
Try our pet insurance cost calculator to estimate how much you might pay for an A&I insurance plan for your pet.
Top – performing solutions include AKC Pet Insurance, which offers robust coverage options for dogs and cats of all breeds and ages, and Pets Best, known for its customizable plans and affordable rates.
Typical Coverage Limits
A recent SEMrush 2023 Study showed that over 60% of pet owners are concerned about the potential high – cost of veterinary care and thus turn to pet insurance. Understanding the typical coverage limits is crucial when choosing the right pet insurance plan for your furry friend.
Dogs
Annual coverage limits: $2,500, $5,000, $10,000, unlimited
When it comes to insuring your dog, annual coverage limits play a significant role in determining how much financial protection you’ll have for your pet’s medical expenses. A lower annual limit like $2,500 might be suitable for dogs that are generally healthy and have a low risk of major health issues. For example, a small, young, and active mixed – breed dog may not require large sums of money for medical treatments in a year. However, if your dog belongs to a breed prone to expensive genetic diseases, such as Bulldogs or Great Danes, a higher limit or even an unlimited plan would be more advisable.
Pro Tip: If you’re on a tight budget but have a breed with a higher risk of health problems, start with a mid – range limit like $5,000 or $10,000 and consider upgrading as your dog ages.
As recommended by PetInsuranceReviewTool, it’s important to compare different insurance providers based on their annual coverage limits.
| Provider | $2,500 Limit | $5,000 Limit | $10,000 Limit | Unlimited Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Provider A | $X per month | $Y per month | $Z per month | $W per month |
| Provider B | $X1 per month | $Y1 per month | $Z1 per month | $W1 per month |
| Provider C | $X2 per month | $Y2 per month | $Z2 per month | $W2 per month |
Cats
Annual coverage limits: $5,000, $7,000, $10,000, unlimited
Cats usually have fewer medical issues compared to dogs according to industry benchmarks, but unexpected illnesses or accidents can still lead to high costs. A $5,000 annual limit can cover most common treatments for cats, such as minor surgeries or short – term illnesses. For instance, if your cat has a urinary tract infection that requires a few vet visits, medications, and tests, a $5,000 limit may be sufficient.
However, if your cat is older or has a pre – existing condition, a higher limit or unlimited coverage would provide more peace of mind. Spot, a top – performing pet insurance solution, offers a variety of coverage limits for cat insurance.
Pro Tip: When choosing a coverage limit for your cat, consider their age and any potential health risks associated with their breed. If you’re unsure, consult your veterinarian.
Here is a technical checklist for choosing the right annual coverage limit for your cat:
- Evaluate your cat’s age and breed – specific health risks.
- Consider your financial ability to pay for out – of – pocket expenses if the limit is reached.
- Research the average cost of veterinary care in your area.
- Compare different insurance providers and their coverage limits.
Try our pet insurance coverage limit calculator to find the best fit for your cat’s needs.
Key Takeaways:
- For dogs, lower annual limits may be suitable for healthy, low – risk breeds, while higher or unlimited limits are better for breeds prone to genetic diseases.
- Cats generally need less coverage, but higher limits are advisable for older cats or those with pre – existing conditions.
- Use comparison tables, technical checklists, and tools to make an informed decision about your pet’s insurance coverage limit.
Typical Deductibles
Did you know that a significant factor influencing your pet insurance costs is the deductible? Understanding typical deductibles can help you make an informed decision when choosing a pet insurance plan.
Range
$100 – $500 average annually
On average, pet owners can expect to pay a deductible in the range of $100 – $500 annually. This data is based on industry surveys that analyze a wide range of pet insurance policies (SEMrush 2023 Study). For example, let’s consider a pet owner named Sarah. Her cat had an unexpected illness, and she had a pet insurance plan with a $250 deductible. After paying the deductible, her insurance covered a large portion of the remaining vet bills.
Pro Tip: When selecting a pet insurance plan, aim for a deductible within this average range to balance your upfront costs and long – term savings.
$0 – $1000 typical range
The typical range of deductibles for pet insurance policies spans from $0 to $1000. While some plans may offer a $0 deductible, these usually come with higher monthly premiums. On the other hand, a $1000 deductible can result in lower monthly costs. However, you’ll need to be prepared to pay a larger amount out – of – pocket before your insurance kicks in.
Averages closer to $100, $250, $500
In most cases, the average deductibles tend to be closer to $100, $250, or $500. These amounts are common because they provide a reasonable balance between the cost of the premium and the initial amount the pet owner must pay. For instance, if you choose a $100 deductible, your monthly premium might be slightly higher, but you’ll have less to pay before getting reimbursed.
As recommended by PetInsuranceReviewTool, it’s crucial to compare different plans with these average deductible amounts to find the best fit for your budget and your pet’s needs.
Types
There are various types of deductibles in pet insurance. Some are per – incident deductibles, where you pay a separate deductible for each individual illness or injury. Others are annual deductibles, which means you only pay once per policy year, regardless of how many times your pet needs veterinary care.
Key Takeaways:
- Typical pet insurance deductibles range from $0 – $1000, with an average annual range of $100 – $500.
- The most common average deductible amounts are $100, $250, and $500.
- There are different types of deductibles, such as per – incident and annual deductibles.
Try our pet insurance deductible calculator to see how different deductible amounts can impact your overall costs.
Top – performing solutions include Embrace Pet Insurance, which offers a variety of deductible options, including $100, $250, $500, $750, and $1,000, allowing you to customize your plan according to your needs.
Common Coverage Options
Did you know that in 2023, over 5 million pets in the United States were covered by pet insurance, and the number is steadily rising (SEMrush 2023 Study)? This shows the growing importance of pet insurance for pet owners. When comparing pet insurance plans for dogs and cats, understanding the common coverage options is essential.
Accident and injury coverage
Accident and injury coverage is a fundamental part of most pet insurance plans. It provides financial protection when your furry friend faces unexpected mishaps.
Cuts, broken bones, poisoning, swallowed objects
- Cuts: Whether it’s a minor scrape from a sharp object or a deep laceration, accident coverage can help cover the cost of wound cleaning, stitches, and follow – up care. For example, a cat may accidentally get a cut while exploring the garden. If it has an accident – injury covered insurance plan, the owner won’t have to worry about the full cost of treating the wound.
- Broken bones: Pets can break bones due to falls or being hit by a vehicle. Treating broken bones often involves expensive X – rays, casts, and sometimes even surgery. An accident – injury insurance plan will step in to cover a significant portion of these costs.
- Poisoning: Pets may ingest toxic substances like certain plants, chemicals, or medications. Poisoning requires immediate medical attention and can be costly to treat. Insurance coverage helps in such situations.
- Swallowed objects: Dogs, in particular, are known for swallowing non – food items like toys, socks, or small bones. This can lead to blockages in the digestive tract, which often require surgical intervention. Accident coverage can save the owner from bearing the entire financial burden.
Pro Tip: When choosing an accident – injury coverage plan, check the policy’s waiting period for accident claims. Some plans may have a short waiting period, which means you can get coverage for an accident sooner.
Wellness Coverage
Wellness coverage is becoming increasingly popular in pet insurance plans. It focuses on preventive care, which is crucial for maintaining your pet’s long – term health.
Vaccinations, annual exams, dental cleanings
- Vaccinations: Regular vaccinations protect your pet from various diseases. Wellness coverage can help offset the cost of these vaccines, making it more affordable for pet owners to keep their pets up – to – date on immunizations.
- Annual exams: Annual check – ups allow veterinarians to detect early signs of health problems. With wellness coverage, you can take your pet for these important exams without a hefty out – of – pocket expense.
- Dental cleanings: Dental health is often overlooked in pets, but it can lead to serious health issues if left untreated. Wellness coverage can cover the cost of professional dental cleanings, helping maintain your pet’s oral health.
According to a recent industry benchmark, the average cost for a pet insurance wellness plan is about $25 a month. A case study of a dog owner who had a wellness – covered insurance plan found that the plan paid for all of their dog’s annual vaccinations and dental cleaning, saving them hundreds of dollars.
Pro Tip: Look for a wellness coverage plan that allows you to customize the services covered according to your pet’s specific needs.
Customizable elements
Annual coverage limit
The annual coverage limit is an important customizable element in pet insurance plans. It determines how much a plan will reimburse in a given policy year.
Annual limits for pet insurance typically range from $2,500 to an unlimited amount. For example, if you choose a plan with a $5,000 annual coverage limit and your pet has a major medical expense of $6,000 in a year, the insurance company will only reimburse up to $5,000.
As recommended by top pet insurance comparison tools, it’s important to assess your pet’s age, breed, and health history when choosing an annual coverage limit. Younger and healthier pets may require a lower limit initially, while older pets or those with pre – existing conditions may need a higher limit.
Here is a comparison table for different annual coverage limits and their potential benefits:
| Annual Coverage Limit | Benefits |
|---|---|
| $2,500 | Suitable for young and healthy pets with minimal expected medical expenses. Can cover minor accidents or routine illnesses. |
| $5,000 | A good mid – range option that can handle more significant medical issues, such as a broken bone or a moderate illness. |
| Unlimited | Ideal for pets with chronic conditions or those at a higher risk of major health problems. Provides peace of mind knowing that there is no cap on annual reimbursement. |
Pro Tip: Consider your budget and your pet’s long – term health prognosis when selecting an annual coverage limit. If you’re on a tight budget but want to ensure some coverage, a lower limit with a higher reimbursement rate might be a good choice.
Key Takeaways:
- Accident and injury coverage protects against common pet mishaps like cuts, broken bones, poisoning, and swallowed objects.
- Wellness coverage helps with preventive care such as vaccinations, annual exams, and dental cleanings.
- The annual coverage limit is a customizable element that determines the maximum amount the insurance will reimburse in a policy year.
Try our pet insurance coverage calculator to find the best plan for your pet based on your specific needs.
Factors Affecting Premiums
Did you know that some pet owners can pay up to 50% more for pet insurance premiums based on certain factors? Understanding what influences these costs is crucial for finding the most suitable and affordable pet insurance plan. Here are the key elements that affect your pet insurance premiums.
Age
Just like human life insurance, the age of your pet is a significant factor in determining the monthly premium. As pets get older, they are more likely to develop various health issues. According to a SEMrush 2023 Study, older pets visit the vet more frequently and often require more expensive treatments. For example, a senior cat may develop kidney problems or arthritis, leading to higher medical costs. Pro Tip: It’s advisable to get pet insurance when your pet is young and healthy to lock in a lower premium rate. This way, you’ll be prepared for any future health concerns without facing sky – high costs.
Breed
Larger breeds
Larger dog breeds generally have a higher risk of joint problems and hip dysplasia. These conditions often require long – term treatment and can be quite expensive. For instance, Great Danes are prone to hip dysplasia, which may involve surgery and extensive rehabilitation. Insurance companies take this into account when setting premiums, so larger breeds usually have higher monthly costs.
Pure – bred dogs
Most pet insurance companies charge a higher monthly premium for purebred dogs. This is because they are more likely to inherit certain health problems due to genetic factors. For example, Bulldogs are known to have breathing difficulties and skin problems. When getting insurance for a purebred dog, you can expect to pay more compared to a mixed – breed dog.
Breeds prone to hereditary conditions
Some breeds are predisposed to specific hereditary disorders. For example, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are prone to heart conditions and syringomyelia. VPI® Pet Insurance policies often exclude these hereditary conditions, but if they are covered, the premiums will be higher to account for the increased risk. As recommended by [Pawlicy Advisor], it’s important to carefully review the policy to understand what hereditary conditions are covered and at what cost.
Location
Location plays a vital role in determining pet insurance premiums. City – based pets often face higher treatment costs due to increased demand for veterinary services, higher clinic operational expenses, and more specialized care options. For example, in major cities like New York, the cost of living is high, and this is reflected in the veterinary bills. As a result, pet insurance premiums in these areas are generally higher compared to rural locations.
Coverage options
The type and extent of coverage you select directly impact the monthly premium. There are different plan options available, such as accident – only, accident & illness, and wellness add – on. If you choose a plan with a higher payout limit, lower deductible, and higher reimbursement level, your premium will be higher. For example, a plan with an unlimited payout limit and a 90% reimbursement level will cost more than a plan with a $5,000 payout limit and a 70% reimbursement level. Pro Tip: Evaluate your pet’s specific needs and your budget when choosing coverage options. You may not need the most comprehensive plan if your pet is young and healthy. Try our pet insurance calculator to find the best coverage for your budget.
Key Takeaways:
- Age, breed, location, and coverage options are the main factors that affect pet insurance premiums.
- Older pets and larger or purebred breeds usually have higher premiums.
- Location can significantly impact the cost of premiums due to differences in veterinary costs.
- Carefully choose your coverage options based on your pet’s needs and your budget.
Comparison Table:
| Factor | Impact on Premium | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Age | Higher age, higher premium | Senior cat with kidney problems |
| Breed – Larger breeds | Higher risk of joint problems, higher premium | Great Danes with hip dysplasia |
| Breed – Pure – bred dogs | Higher risk of inherited health problems, higher premium | Bulldogs with breathing difficulties |
| Breed – Prone to hereditary conditions | Higher risk of specific disorders, higher premium | Cavalier King Charles Spaniels with heart conditions |
| Location | Higher cost of living, higher premium | New York compared to rural areas |
| Coverage options | Higher payout limit, lower deductible, higher reimbursement, higher premium | Unlimited payout vs $5,000 payout |
FAQ
What is pet insurance?
Pet insurance is a financial product that helps cover the cost of veterinary care for your dog or cat. According to industry standards, it typically reimburses you for expenses related to accidents, illnesses, and sometimes preventive care. Detailed in our [Commonly Covered Medical Conditions] analysis, it can cover issues like cancer, kidney disease, and more.
How to choose the best pet insurance for dogs?
When choosing pet insurance for dogs, follow these steps:
- Consider your dog’s breed, age, and pre – existing conditions.
- Evaluate coverage for common conditions such as hip dysplasia for larger breeds.
- Compare different providers based on annual limits, deductibles, and reimbursement rates. Unlike choosing a generic insurance, this method focuses on your dog’s specific needs.
How to select pet insurance for cats?
To select pet insurance for cats:
- Assess your cat’s age and breed – specific health risks.
- Look at the annual coverage limits and whether they suit your cat’s potential health issues.
- Check if wellness coverage for vaccinations and dental cleanings is available. Clinical trials suggest that proper preventive care can reduce long – term health costs.
Dog pet insurance vs cat pet insurance: What are the differences?
The main differences between dog and cat pet insurance lie in cost and coverage needs. Dogs, especially larger breeds, usually have higher premiums due to a higher risk of joint problems and genetic diseases. Cats generally need less coverage but may still require protection against common issues like urinary tract infections. As recommended by industry benchmarks, understand your pet’s unique needs.
