Prescription medications and supplements Emergency vet visits Laboratory tests Surgeries Physical therapy Hospital stays Swallowed objects and toxins Cancer treatment Hereditary and congenital issues X-rays and CT scans
There is also a 6-month waiting period before injuries of the hips and knees are covered. However, this waiting period is waived if your pet is examined in the first 30 days of your policy and no relevant pre-existing conditions are identified. Learn more about Fetch Pet Insurance here.
Diagnostics, such as X-rays, CT scans, ultrasounds, MRIs, blood tests, and urinalysis Procedures, including hospitalization, surgery, and specialty and emergency care Medications, such as injections and prescription medications
Annual wellness exam, bloodwork, heartworm screening, and parasite evaluation test. Up to 3 vaccinations, including rabies, bordetella, and DHLPP Routine dental cleaning including polishing, dental x-rays, anesthesia, and more Flea, tick, and heartworm medication Online expert medical advice There is also a preventative care package designed specifically for puppies and kittens, which covers procedures like spaying or neutering, flea medication, microchipping, and up to 6 vaccines or boosters.
Note that pre-existing conditions are not covered and there are waiting periods before coverage kicks in—2 days for accidents, 14 days for illnesses, and 6 months for cruciate ligament issues. However, if you opt for a preventative package, the benefits can be used the day after purchase. Learn more about Lemonade Pet Insurance here.
Price: The price of a policy is dependent on a wide range of factors, which can include (but may not be limited to): The type of policy Age of your pet Your pet’s current health Previous claims and treatment history Breed and sex of your pet Where you live Age and breed of your pet: The age of your pet can significantly affect the price of an insurance policy. Typically, as a pet gets older the premium increases, as it’s more likely they will need vet treatment. Therefore, as your pet gets older, the more difficult it is to get insured. On the flip side, most insurance providers won’t insure a pet under the age of 8 weeks. The cost of insurance for pedigree breeds or exotic pets—such as lizards or reptiles—can be more expensive. For example, crossbreeds are generally less likely to be affected by inherited medical conditions seen with certain pedigree breeds (i. e. flat-nosed dogs and respiratory issues). Excess: The majority of pet insurance policies have an excess, which is the amount you pay towards the cost of a claim. Excesses can vary significantly so be sure to check how much they are and how they will be applied toward costs. Typically, the higher the excess, the lower the cost of the overall premium.
The type of policy Age of your pet Your pet’s current health Previous claims and treatment history Breed and sex of your pet Where you live
The cost of insurance for pedigree breeds or exotic pets—such as lizards or reptiles—can be more expensive. For example, crossbreeds are generally less likely to be affected by inherited medical conditions seen with certain pedigree breeds (i. e. flat-nosed dogs and respiratory issues).
What pet do you want to insure? (i. e. cat or dog) What breed is your pet? Is it pedigree, crossbreed, or mixed breed? What gender is your pet? When was your pet born? Does your pet have any pre-existing conditions? Has your pet suffered from any injury or illness in the past? Are your pet’s vaccinations up to date? Has your pet ever been attacked, bitten, or displayed aggressive behavior? Has your pet ever been involved in third-party insurance claims? Has your pet been spayed or neutered? Is your pet microchipped? How much did you pay for your pet?
Wellness: Covers preventative care, such as routine appointments and vet exams. Illness: Covers treatment for minor and major illnesses, such as allergies, stomach issues, and cancer. Accident: Coverage for accidental injuries, such as bites, wounds, bone breaks, or ingestion of harmful substances.
Financial relief: Depending on your level of coverage, your pet insurance can take away some of the financial burdens of unexpected veterinary costs. Coverage significantly reduces the price of many surgeries and treatments, with some plans reimbursing 90-100% of the cost. Visiting your own vet: Unlike health insurance, which requires you to visit an in-network doctor, pet insurance typically allows you to visit your preferred licensed veterinarian or animal hospital for care. Customizable coverage: Most pet insurance providers give you the flexibility to create a plan that meets your pet’s specific needs. You can usually combine different levels of coverage (e. g. , illness and accidents). You’ll also be able to choose your deductible amounts based on your personal budget. Confidence: Knowing your pet is in pain or injured and not having the money to pay for the procedure they need is heartbreaking. No one wants to have to make the awful choice of paying their bills or losing their furry companion. Pet insurance can prevent you from ever having to make that choice, or from putting a price limit on your pet’s life.
Routine vet visits may not be covered: Many pet insurance policies don’t include preventative visits, such as vaccinations, or routine exams (i. e. check-ups). This means, as well as paying for insurance, you’ll also have out-of-pocket expenses for routine vet visits. Your insurer may offer additional coverage for preventive or wellness visits, but it will increase your monthly premium. You might still incur costs: As the majority of policies only cover a percentage of eligible claims, you’ll still pay a portion of the bill. If you don’t have that money in the bank, you might end up in some financial trouble. Furthermore, most plans have a maximum benefit limit, and if your pet’s care goes beyond this limit, you’ll have to pay the complete vet bills. Your pet may not be eligible: If you have an older pet or your pet has a pre-existing condition, such as hip dysplasia or diabetes, you’re unlikely to be approved for a pet insurance policy. If this is the case for you, it’s a good idea to put money aside each month in a savings account just for your pet’s healthcare costs. Benefits may go unused: Some policies may cover everything from chemotherapy to acupuncture, which you may not use, but you’re still paying for “just in case. ” On the other hand, if you don’t maximize your coverage, you might end up paying more for your pet’s health care than you would without insurance. You pay upfront: With pet insurance, you’re responsible for paying 100% of the cost upfront, and instead of the vet’s office submitting a claim, you have to submit your own claim for reimbursement directly. Therefore, you still need to have the funds to pay your vet bills before your insurer processes your claim.
