Best Pet Insurance Companies for 2025
- Last updated: 2025 October
Best for Budget-Friendly Plans
Affordable coverage for accidents and illness with fast claim payouts and flexible deductibles.
4.8
PetPlanHero Rating
Best for Comprehensive Coverage
Strong protection for accidents, illnesses, and wellness care — backed by a trusted national brand.
4.9
PetPlanHero Rating
Best for Fast, Hassle-Free Claims
Fast digital claims, transparent pricing, and flexible add-ons for modern pet parents.
4.7
PetPlanHero Rating
Best Pet Insurance Companies – October
PetPlanHero Rating: 4.9
ASPCA
- Customizable accident & illness plans
- Optional wellness add-ons for preventive care
- Freedom to use any licensed vet
- Backed by ASPCA’s trusted legacy
Avg. dog plan: $49.23/mo
PetPlanHero Rating: 4.8
Pets Best
- Optional Vet Direct Pay at checkout
- Fast and easy online claims
- Flexible deductibles and limits
- Helpful guidance for first-time policyholders
Avg. dog plan: $42.58/mo
PetPlanHero Rating: 4.7
Lemonade
- AI-powered claims settled in minutes
- Simple, app-based experience
- Comprehensive add-ons like dental & behavioral care
- Transparent pricing, no hidden fees
Avg. dog plan: $45.82/mo
PetPlanHero Rating: 4.7
Spot
- Preventive wellness plans available
- Choose any licensed vet in the U.S. or Canada
- Streamlined digital claims
- Fully customizable coverage
Avg. dog plan: $50.18/mo
PetPlanHero Rating: 4.6
Embrace
- “Healthy Pet” deductible that shrinks every year
- Covers hereditary and breed-specific conditions
- Includes dental illness protection
- Tailor coverage to your pet’s needs
Avg. dog plan: $52.33/mo
PetPlanHero Rating: 4.4
Figo
- 24/7 Live Vet chat support
- Cloud-based claims and records management
- Lost-pet alerts through Smart Tag
- Fast, mobile-first reimbursements
Avg. dog plan: $45.77/mo
PetPlanHero Rating: 4.4
Pumpkin
- Exam fees included for covered visits
- Physical therapy and prescription diets covered
- Short waiting periods on knees and hips
- No breed or age exclusions
Avg. dog plan: $53.42/mo
PetPlanHero Rating: 4.1
MetLife
- Family plan option covers multiple pets
- Use any licensed vet, nationwide
- Adjustable annual limits and deductibles
- Discounts for employers and military families
Avg. dog plan: $42.19/mo
PetPlanHero Rating: 4.0
Healthy paws
- Unlimited lifetime coverage, no caps
- One easy, all-in-one plan
- Claims typically processed in 2 days
- Up to 90% reimbursement available
Avg. dog plan: $49.71/mo
How We Chose Our Top Picks
We built our rankings by blending data-driven analysis with real-world insight. Our editorial team spent hundreds of hours reviewing policies, reading customer feedback, and comparing fine print across dozens of providers.
Each company featured on this page met key benchmarks for:
- Coverage depth – including how they handle accidents, chronic conditions, and breed-specific issues
- Claims experience – average reimbursement time, payout consistency, and transparency
- Value for money – not just price, but what pet owners truly get in return
- Customer reputation – verified reviews and complaint ratios
- Ease of use – from digital claims to clear policy language
What to Know About Pet Insurance
Pet insurance is designed to help you handle the unexpected costs of veterinary care, not the everyday ones. When your pet gets sick or injured, you pay your vet bill upfront and then submit a claim to your insurer for reimbursement — similar to how homeowners or auto coverage works.
A solid policy can cover emergency surgery, diagnostics, prescriptions, and hospital stays, helping you avoid making medical decisions based on cost. What it usually doesn’t cover are routine services like annual exams, vaccines, or dental cleanings — unless you choose a wellness add-on.
Because pet insurers typically exclude pre-existing conditions, it pays to enroll your cat or dog while they’re still young and healthy. Doing so ensures continuous coverage before any issues arise — and keeps your premiums lower in the long run.
Detailed Reviews of the Best Pet Insurance Companies 2025
While every pet insurance company promises peace of mind, their policies differ in ways that matter — from how claims are handled to what’s included in standard coverage. Below, we break down our top picks in more detail, focusing on the coverage depth, customer experience, and pricing transparency that set them apart.
These reviews are based on consistent plan comparisons, independent data, and customer insight — not marketing claims. The goal is simple: to help you understand what each insurer actually delivers and which one aligns best with your expectations as a pet owner.
ASPCA Pet Health Insurance — Best overall
Why We Picked It: ASPCA Pet Health Insurance is one of the most trusted names in pet protection, offering comprehensive accident-and-illness coverage backed by the ASPCA brand. Plans can include everything from exam fees and dental illness to behavioral therapy — and you can add a preventive-care option for vaccines and check-ups.
ASPCA’s policies reimburse 70–90% of vet bills, offer annual limits up to $10,000 or unlimited, and have waiting periods of 2 days for accidents and 14 for illness — making it a solid pick for owners who want broad, dependable protection. In addition, ASPCA’s policies are underwritten by Crum & Forster, a long-established insurer known for stability and strong claims service. With customizable deductibles, multiple add-on options, and a straightforward claims process, ASPCA remains a reliable choice for pet owners seeking peace of mind and consistent coverage across the U.S.
PROS
- Backed by a reputable national organization
- Includes behavioral, dental, and exam fee coverage
- Optional wellness add-ons for preventive care
- Multi-pet discount
CONS
- Premiums rise with age
- Sometimes longer waiting periods than some rivals
Pets Best — Best for Affordable Customization
Why We Picked It: Pets Best gives you flexibility without complexity. You can tailor your plan with reimbursement rates of 70%, 80%, or 90%, choose deductibles from $50–$1,000, and even opt for unlimited annual limits. It covers accidents, illnesses, hereditary conditions, dental issues, and offers a direct-to-vet payment option so you don’t have to pay large bills upfront.
Beyond pricing flexibility, Pets Best stands out for its transparent policies and accessible support. Their 24/7 pet helpline is included at no extra cost, and the company consistently receives positive reviews for helping owners manage claims easily online. For budget-conscious pet parents, it’s one of the most practical and trustworthy options on the market.
PROS
- Budget-friendly with flexible deductibles and payout options
- Covers hereditary and dental conditions
- Option for direct vet payment
- 24/7 pet helpline
CONS
- 6-month waiting period for cruciate injuries
- Alternative therapies not always covered
- Claims processing times can vary
Lemonade Pet Insurance — Best for Fast Claims
Why We Picked It: Lemonade sets itself apart with lightning-fast claim processing and one of the most intuitive digital experiences in the industry. Thanks to its AI-powered platform, many claims are reviewed and paid out within minutes, not days. That means less paperwork, less waiting, and more time focusing on your pet.
Each policy covers accidents, illnesses, diagnostics, surgeries, hospitalization, and prescription meds, with reimbursement options of 70–90%, deductibles as low as $100, and annual limits up to $100,000. Preventive and dental add-ons are available too, giving you full control over coverage.
Lemonade is ideal for pet owners who value convenience and transparency. Its clean, app-first design eliminates confusing fine print, and you can manage everything — from filing a claim to adjusting your plan — directly on your phone. For pet parents who want speed and simplicity without sacrificing protection, Lemonade is the clear leader.
PROS
- AI-driven claims processing in minutes
- Sleek mobile app for full policy management
- Transparent pricing and clear coverage terms
- Optional preventive and dental add-ons
CONS
- Availability limited in some states
- No coverage for pre-existing conditions
- Requires use of the app for most actions
Spot — Best for Flexible, High-Limit Plans
Why We Picked It: Spot lets you build your own plan from the ground up. Choose your deductible ($100–$1,000), reimbursement rate (70–90%), and annual limit ($2,500–unlimited) to fit your budget and your pet’s needs. It includes coverage for exam fees, behavioral issues, and alternative therapies, and accepts pets of any age — rare in the industry.
Spot also provides educational resources and transparent plan comparisons that help pet owners make informed decisions before they buy. The brand’s backing by celebrity dog behaviorist Cesar Millan adds credibility, and its combination of flexibility and trust makes it a standout choice for owners who want control, confidence, and complete coverage options.
PROS
- Fully customizable coverage levels
- No upper age limits
- Includes behavioral and alternative therapies
- Backed by Cesar Millan’s endorsement
CONS
- Higher cost at top coverage tiers
- Slower claims for some users
- Preventive care not included by default
Embrace — Best for Comprehensive Protection
Why We Picked It: Embrace combines robust coverage with unique benefits that reward responsible pet ownership. It covers accidents, illnesses, exam fees, hereditary issues, and alternative therapies, with reimbursement options from 70% to 90% and unlimited annual limits available.
Where Embrace really shines is in its attention to long-term value. The Diminishing Deductible rewards claim-free years by lowering your cost annually, while the Wellness Rewards program encourages preventive care — something most insurers ignore. Combined with a reputation for excellent customer support, Embrace offers a premium experience that balances protection, convenience, and compassion.
PROS
- Deductible decreases each claim-free year
- Optional wellness plan for routine care
- Strong customer satisfaction reputation
- Includes exam and alternative therapy coverage
CONS
- Premiums increase for older pets
- Restrictions on pre-existing conditions
- Availability can vary by state
Choosing the Right Plan (Decision Guide)
Pet insurance isn’t one-size-fits-all. The best plan depends on your pet’s age, breed, health history, and your comfort with risk. Below, we break down the five factors that matter most when choosing coverage — and the trade-offs that can save (or cost) you hundreds of dollars over time.
Accident-Only vs. Illness vs. Wellness Add-Ons
One of the first choices you’ll face is what type of coverage to buy. Most insurers divide plans into three categories — accident-only, accident & illness, and wellness or preventive care.
Accident-Only Plans
These are the most basic and budget-friendly policies. They cover unexpected injuries such as broken bones, swallowed objects, cuts, or toxic ingestions.
An accident-only plan is a good fit if your pet is young, healthy, and you mainly want protection against emergencies — the kinds of bills that can easily run into thousands. Premiums can be 50–70% cheaper than full coverage, but you won’t be protected against illnesses like infections, cancer, or allergies.
| Plan Type | Coverage Scope | Average Monthly Cost (Dog) |
|---|---|---|
| Accident-Only | Injuries, emergencies, toxic ingestion, broken bones. | $10–$25 |
| Accident & Illness | Accidents, illnesses, surgeries, hereditary conditions, cancer. | $40–$80 |
| Wellness Add-On | Vaccines, dental cleanings, check-ups, preventive care. | +$10–$25 |
Bottom line: Accident & Illness plans provide the best financial safety net, while wellness add-ons help smooth out regular care costs. For most pet parents, a blend of both offers peace of mind and stability.
Reimbursement & Deductible Trade-Offs
Every policy involves three key numbers: reimbursement rate, deductible, and annual coverage limit. Understanding how they interact is essential for balancing cost and protection.
Reimbursement Rate
This determines what percentage of your vet bill is repaid after the deductible. Common options are 70%, 80%, or 90%. A higher reimbursement means lower out-of-pocket costs but higher premiums. A lower rate saves monthly but increases what you pay per claim.
Deductible
This is the amount you pay before insurance kicks in. Deductibles can be annual or per-incident. Annual deductibles are easier to manage. A $250 deductible means lower yearly costs, but higher monthly premiums. A $500–$1,000 deductible reduces premiums but requires more savings in case of emergencies.
Annual Coverage Limit
This is the cap on how much your insurer will reimburse in a year — typically $5,000 to “unlimited.” For large breeds or chronic conditions, unlimited coverage makes sense.
| Setting | Impact | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Reimbursement Rate | Higher % means more coverage, higher premiums. | 80% |
| Deductible | Higher deductible lowers premiums but increases risk. | $500 annual |
| Coverage Limit | Caps reimbursement per year; unlimited offers best protection. | $10,000 or unlimited |
Pre-Existing Conditions & Waiting Periods
Nearly all insurers exclude pre-existing conditions — any illness, injury, or symptom that appeared before enrollment or during the waiting period. The fine print here can make or break your coverage.
Pre-Existing Conditions
Some insurers reconsider “curable” conditions after a symptom-free period, usually 6–12 months. Chronic illnesses or congenital issues, however, remain excluded if diagnosed before the policy starts.
Waiting Periods
All new customers must wait before full coverage begins. Common timelines include:
| Coverage Type | Typical Waiting Period |
|---|---|
| Accidents | 2–14 days |
| Illnesses | 14–30 days |
| Orthopedic Issues | 6–12 months |
Tip: Enroll early. The younger your pet, the shorter your risk window and the more complete your coverage will be.
Direct Vet Pay vs. Reimbursement Models
Traditional pet insurance works on reimbursement: you pay the vet, submit a claim, and get reimbursed later. But an increasing number of insurers now offer direct vet pay, where the insurer pays your vet directly at checkout.
Reimbursement Model
After paying upfront, you submit an invoice via an app or online portal. Processing times vary: Lemonade and Figo often handle claims within minutes, while others may take several days. The main downside is cash flow — you need to cover the full bill before reimbursement arrives.
Direct Vet Pay
Trupanion and MetLife offer direct pay options, reimbursing vets immediately for covered treatments so you only pay your portion. This feature is especially helpful during emergencies when costs can exceed $2,000.
How Premiums Change with Age
Pet insurance isn’t static. Your monthly cost will rise as your pet gets older — sometimes gradually, sometimes dramatically.
| Age of Pet | Average Monthly Premium (Dog) | Expected Annual Increase |
|---|---|---|
| 1–3 years | $35–$45 | 5–8% |
| 4–7 years | $50–$70 | 10–15% |
| 8+ years | $80–$120 | 15–20% |
To manage long-term costs, lock in coverage early, compare renewal pricing, and avoid lapses in payment to keep your policy active. For most pet owners, stability comes from consistent coverage — not jumping between providers.
Estimated Monthly Premiums (Industry Averages)
Use the averages below as a quick reference for accident & illness coverage in 2025. These figures reflect typical policies across the U.S. and are meant for context only—your price will vary by pet age, breed, ZIP code, annual limit, deductible, and reimbursement level.
| Source / Benchmark | Avg. Dog (mo.) | Avg. Cat (mo.) |
|---|---|---|
| Industry / Market Average | $62.44 | $32.21 |
| Conservative Benchmark | $46.37 | $23.18 |
| Median Quote Snapshot | $43.22 | $23.44 |
*Averages compiled from leading comparison sources and industry reporting. They are directional, not guarantees. Always obtain a personalized quote for your pet.
Estimated Prices by Brand (Dogs & Cats)
Below are brand-level estimates for typical accident & illness plans. Where possible, figures are aligned with comparison benchmarks used by major reviewers; when exact figures aren’t published, we use a cautious estimate in line with market averages. Treat these as helpful guideposts—final pricing depends on your pet profile and coverage choices.
| Provider | Estimated Avg. Dog (mo.) | Estimated Avg. Cat (mo.) |
|---|---|---|
| ASPCA | $49.23 | $29.16 |
| Pets Best | $42.58 | $25.36 |
| Lemonade | $45.82 | $28.11 |
| Spot | $50.18 | $29.44 |
| Embrace | $52.33 | $30.27 |
| Figo | $45.77 | $25.64 |
| Pumpkin | $53.42 | $30.61 |
| MetLife | $42.19 | $23.12 |
| Healthy Paws | $49.71 | $28.49 |
| Fetch | $51.27 | $29.82 |
| Odie | $36.49 | $21.37 |
| Trupanion | $72.16 | $38.73 |
*Estimates reflect typical accident & illness plans for young adult pets, mid-tier deductibles, and standard reimbursement levels. Figures are adapted from leading comparison sources and insurer publications to provide directional guidance. Always confirm the latest price and benefits on the insurer’s official website for your pet and ZIP code.
Our Honest Opinion
Choosing pet insurance isn’t about finding the cheapest plan — it’s about finding one that fits your pet’s life stage, health profile, and your budget. If you want to keep premiums low, accident-only coverage can serve as a financial safety net. But if you’re looking for true peace of mind, an accident & illness plan with balanced reimbursement and deductible settings is the long-term winner. The best time to insure your pet is before they need it — every month you wait, your risk and cost increase.
Compare What’s Covered by Company
Once you’ve chosen the type of plan, select coverage levels that match your comfort with risk and your pet’s likely needs. Price matters, but in a costly emergency you’ll be far happier you prioritized sufficient protection over a slightly lower premium.
Annual Maximum
The total your insurer will reimburse within a policy year. Common tiers are $5,000, $10,000, and unlimited. Large breeds or pets with chronic risks often benefit from higher or unlimited limits.
Deductible
What you pay before coverage applies. Lower deductibles ($100–$250) raise premiums but reduce out-of-pocket costs during claims. Higher deductibles ($500–$1,000) lower premiums but require more cash on hand.
Reimbursement Percentage
How much you get back after the deductible. Typical options are 70%, 80%, or 90%. Many owners find 80% to be the best balance between monthly cost and protection.
| Coverage Setting | Typical Range | Recommended Starting Point |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Maximum | $5,000 – Unlimited | $10,000+ |
| Deductible | $100 – $1,000 | $500 annual |
| Reimbursement | 70% – 90% (some offer 100%) | 80% |
Compare What’s Covered by Company
Beyond core accident and illness benefits, top providers differ on extras. Coverage for behavioral therapy, alternative medicine, microchipping, and end-of-life care can materially affect both cost and peace of mind. The table below highlights how leading U.S. brands handle these benefits.
| Company | Behavioral Therapy | Alternative Therapy | Microchipping | End-of-Life Care |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ASPCA | Yes | Yes | Add-on | Yes |
| Pets Best (Elite) | Yes | Yes | Add-on | Yes |
| Lemonade | No | No | Add-on | Yes |
| Spot | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Embrace | Yes | Yes | Add-on | Yes |
| Figo | No | Yes | Add-on | Yes |
| Pumpkin | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| MetLife | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Healthy Paws | No | Yes | No | Yes |
Coverage Ranges by Company
Use the matrix below to scan typical ranges for annual maximums, deductible options, and reimbursement levels by brand. Exact choices vary by state and pet profile; always confirm during quoting.
| Company | Annual Maximums | Deductible Range | Reimbursement Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| ASPCA | $5,000, $10,000, Unlimited | $100 – $500 | 70% • 80% • 90% |
| Pets Best | $5,000 – Unlimited | $50 – $1,000 | 70% • 80% • 90% |
| Lemonade | $5,000 – $100,000 | $100 – $500 | 70% • 80% • 90% |
| Spot | $2,500 – Unlimited | $100 – $1,000 | 70% • 80% • 90% |
| Embrace | $5,000 – Unlimited | $200 – $1,000 | 70% • 80% • 90% |
| Figo | $5,000 – Unlimited | $100 – $750 | 70% • 80% • 90% (up to 100% in some areas) |
| Pumpkin | High limits (often $20,000+) | $100 – $500 | Typically 90% |
| MetLife | $5,000 – Unlimited | $50 – $1,000 | 70% • 80% • 90% (varies) |
| Healthy Paws | Unlimited (no annual caps) | $100 – $500 (varies by age) | 70% • 80% • 90% (varies by age) |
Notes: Options can vary by state, pet age, and underwriting rules. Some brands offer additional tiers or promotional options not shown here. Always verify the exact choices during your quote.
How We Rank the Best Pet Insurance Companies
Pricing Analysis (Weighted National Average)
We calculate an average plan cost for each provider using quotes for a 2-year-old Labrador Retriever and a 2-year-old American Shorthair cat,
each with a $500 deductible. To avoid skewed results, we pull quotes across the country and compute a weighted national average rather than relying on teaser rates from a single city.
ZIP codes used in our national pricing sample (50 states)
AL (35213) | AK (99507) | AZ (85254) | AR (72712) | CA (94110) | CO (80302) | CT (06511) | DE (19808) | FL (33139) | GA (30309) | HI (96815) | ID (83702) | IL (60614) | IN (46220) | IA (52242) | KS (66213) | KY (40205) | LA (70808) | ME (04101) | MD (20852) | MA (02139) | MI (48104) | MN (55408) | MS (39532) | MO (64111) | MT (59715) | NE (68516) | NV (89135) | NH (03801) | NJ (07030) | NM (87110) | NY (11201) | NC (27514) | ND (58103) | OH (43215) | OK (73116) | OR (97214) | PA (19103) | RI (02906) | SC (29601) | SD (57106) | TN (37212) | TX (78704) | UT (84105) | VT (05401) | VA (22201) | WA (98103) | WV (26505) | WI (53703) | WY (82001)
Note: These ZIP codes are representative and valid within each state. We refresh data regularly to reflect market changes.
Coverage & Benefits
We score how comprehensive each policy is, with emphasis on real-world usefulness: accidents and illnesses, surgeries and hospitalization, cancer treatment and diagnostics, dental and hereditary conditions, behavioral therapy, alternative care, and optional wellness add-ons. More inclusive, transparent coverage earns a higher score.
Policy Terms & Financial Stability
Fine print matters. We evaluate waiting periods (accident, illness, orthopedic), age limits, annual and lifetime caps, reimbursement levels, deductible options, and the clarity of policy language. Where applicable, we also consider the underwriter’s AM Best rating to assess long-term stability.
Claims Experience & Customer Satisfaction
A great policy should be easy to use when you need it most. We factor in average claim turnaround times, transparency of the process, direct-to-vet payment availability, and verified customer feedback (e.g., Trustpilot). Faster, simpler claims with strong satisfaction scores rank higher.
Technology & Ease of Use
From signup to claim filing, digital experience matters. We assess the quality of mobile apps, quote tools, document clarity, and how easy it is to tailor coverage. Modern, intuitive experiences earn additional credit—especially when paired with rapid claims.
A great policy should be easy to use when you need it most. We factor in average claim turnaround times, transparency of the process, direct-to-vet payment availability, and verified customer feedback (e.g., Trustpilot). Faster, simpler claims with strong satisfaction scores rank higher.
Our Weighting Framework
| Category | Weight | What We Measure |
|---|---|---|
| Cost & Value | 25% | National average premiums (dog & cat), pricing consistency, and overall affordability compared to coverage. |
| Coverage & Benefits | 25% | Depth and flexibility of coverage including accidents, illnesses, dental, cancer, behavioral care, and optional wellness add-ons. |
| Policy Terms & Stability | 15% | Waiting periods, age limits, reimbursement options, annual/lifetime limits, and the financial strength of the underwriter (AM Best rating where applicable). |
| Claims Experience & Customer Satisfaction | 20% | Average claim processing times, transparency, ease of filing, and verified customer feedback (e.g., Trustpilot reviews). |
| Technology & Ease of Use | 10% | Simplicity of sign-up, app usability, online quote tools, and how intuitive the user experience is from start to claim. |
| Long-Term Value | 5% | Lifetime cost projections, renewal stability, and any loyalty or deductible reduction benefits offered by the provider. |
A small editorial adjustment (±5%) may be applied to reflect recent policy updates or changes in reputation.
All adjustments are clearly documented in each individual review for full transparency.
Update Cadence & Editorial Independence
We refresh pricing and policy data on a regular schedule and monitor providers for significant changes (coverage updates, rate adjustments, claims policy changes). While we may receive commissions when you purchase through our links, our rankings are based on the methodology above and are never sold or guaranteed.
Data & Verification Sources
At PetPlanHero, accuracy and transparency guide every comparison we make. Our research process combines independent data, verified industry reports, and professional veterinary insights to ensure the rankings you see are both current and reliable. We continually monitor pricing trends, claims satisfaction, and coverage performance across the market using trusted third-party organizations.
- North American Pet Health Insurance Association (NAPHIA) – the leading industry body for verified market data, policy trends, and enrollment statistics across North America.
- National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) – official source for consumer protection data, complaint ratios, and regulatory standards in the insurance sector.
- Consumer Reports – independent nonprofit known for its unbiased evaluations of pet insurance value, coverage quality, and customer experience.
- Veterinary Information Network (VIN) – research-based veterinary community providing insight into treatment costs, care trends, and common claim categories.
- American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) – national authority publishing studies on preventive care, pet health trends, and cost of treatment data used across the industry.
Together, these sources form the foundation of our review process — allowing us to present data-backed rankings that help pet owners make confident, well-informed insurance decisions.
Your Pet Insurance Questions Answered
How does pet insurance work?
Pet insurance helps cover the cost of unexpected vet bills when your pet gets sick or injured. You typically pay your vet upfront, then file a claim for reimbursement based on your plan’s coverage level and deductible. Some providers now offer direct vet pay, meaning they settle bills directly with the clinic so you pay less out of pocket. Each company’s process and claim turnaround time can vary, so it’s worth checking before you buy.
What does pet insurance cover — and what doesn’t it cover?
Most pet insurance plans cover accidents and illnesses, including diagnostics, surgery, medications, hospitalization, and cancer treatment. Some plans also include coverage for hereditary conditions or alternative therapies.
However, routine wellness visits, vaccinations, dental cleanings, and pre-existing conditions are typically excluded unless you add a wellness plan or preventive care rider. Always review the fine print to understand what’s included before enrolling.
Is pet insurance worth it?
For many pet owners, yes — especially when faced with large, unexpected vet bills. Emergency surgeries or chronic conditions can cost thousands of dollars, and having insurance can prevent difficult financial decisions during stressful times.
Pet insurance isn’t about saving money every month — it’s about protecting yourself from major expenses that can arise without warning. If you value financial stability and peace of mind, it’s often a worthwhile investment.
How much does pet insurance cost per month?
On average, pet insurance in the U.S. costs between $20 and $60 per month for dogs and $15 to $35 for cats, depending on your pet’s age, breed, and where you live. Policies with higher reimbursement rates or lower deductibles will cost more, while accident-only plans are cheaper but provide limited protection. Comparing multiple quotes is the best way to find a balance between price and coverage.
How do deductible and reimbursement options affect price?
Your deductible and reimbursement level directly influence your monthly premium.
A low deductible (like $100 or $250) means you’ll pay more each month but less out of pocket per claim.
A high deductible (like $500 or $1,000) lowers your premium but increases your share of the bill.
Similarly, choosing a higher reimbursement percentage (e.g., 90% instead of 70%) increases your monthly cost but gives you more back when you file a claim. The right choice depends on your budget and how much financial risk you’re comfortable taking.
Will pet insurance cover pre-existing conditions?
Most providers exclude pre-existing conditions — any illness or injury that showed symptoms before your policy started or during the waiting period.
However, some companies make exceptions for curable pre-existing conditions that have been symptom-free for a certain period (for example, 6 or 12 months). It’s important to read each provider’s policy wording carefully, as definitions can differ widely.
Which companies offer direct vet pay?
Some insurers — such as Trupanion, MetLife, and Pets Best — offer direct vet payment options where the insurer reimburses your veterinarian directly.
This can save you from paying large upfront costs, but availability often depends on your vet’s willingness to work with the insurer’s system. Always confirm with your veterinary clinic before relying on this feature.
What is a reasonable annual maximum or coverage limit?
A typical policy might offer annual limits between $5,000 and $10,000, though many insurers also have unlimited coverage options.
If your pet is young and healthy, a lower limit may be sufficient. But for breeds prone to chronic conditions or major surgery, unlimited coverage can offer peace of mind. The higher the annual limit, the higher your premium — but also your protection.
Does pet insurance cover wellness or preventive care?
Standard pet insurance policies generally don’t cover preventive care like vaccinations, dental cleanings, or annual checkups.
Some companies, however, offer optional wellness plans or add-ons that reimburse these routine expenses. If you prefer predictable monthly costs and want coverage for checkups, these add-ons can be a smart choice — though they tend to increase your total premium.
When should I enroll my pet?
The best time to get pet insurance is when your pet is young and healthy. Younger pets are cheaper to insure and less likely to have pre-existing conditions, meaning you’ll qualify for more comprehensive coverage.
Delaying enrollment can lead to exclusions for conditions that appear before your policy starts — so the sooner you enroll, the better your long-term protection and costs.