What is pet insurance, and how does it work?

How does pet insurance work?

Pet insurance works by reimbursing you for eligible vet bills and certain medications if your dog or cat becomes sick or gets injured, depending on your policy. Here's a step-by-step look at how pet insurance typically works:

1. Apply for coverage: Choose a pet insurance plan that fits your needs and enroll your pet.
2. Pay for coverage: Pay your monthly or annual premium to keep your policy active.
3. Visit any licensed vet: Take your pet to any licensed veterinarian, including specialty or emergency clinics, for treatment.
4. Pay for the visit: Pay the upfront cost of the visit for any covered accident, illness, or procedures.
5. Submit eligible expenses: File a claim with your pet insurer, including receipts and invoices, for reimbursement based on your policy's terms. For comprehensive plans that cover accidents and injuries, you'll likely need to meet a deductible before your coverage kicks in. Your insurer will evaluate your claim for eligibility and deposit any reimbursement owed to your bank account or send you a check.

What does pet insurance cover?

Before choosing a pet insurer and plan, make sure you understand how it covers your dog or cat. Pet insurance plans cover different things but typically include these categories:

• Accidents such as cuts, lacerations, broken legs, ingestions, and swallowed objects
• Illnesses such as arthritis, allergies, skin and ear infections, diabetes, and cancer
• Hereditary and congenital conditions like elbow and hip dysplasia, glaucoma, epilepsy, luxating patella, and cherry eye (if symptoms aren't present before coverage is purchased)
• Routine care for preventative procedures such as annual exams, vaccinations, bloodwork, and dental cleanings — for an extra cost

For accidents and illnesses, you may be able to choose between accident-only plans, which only cover treatment for accident-related injuries, or comprehensive plans that cover both accidents and illnesses. Routine care, such as vaccinations, preventative dental care, and spaying or neutering may be covered by a separate pet wellness plan.

What doesn't pet insurance cover?

Pet insurance generally doesn't cover pre-existing conditions (health problems your pet had before you got your policy), pet pregnancies, and non-vet related costs like grooming and boarding. Other restrictions may apply — check with your pet insurer to learn what else may not be covered under your specific plan.

How much does it cost to insure a pet?

Most pets can be insured for a few hundred dollars a year, depending on the provider and the type of plan you choose. In general, accident-only plans are less expensive than comprehensive plans, which cover accidents and illness.

In 2024, the North American Pet Health Insurance Association (NAPHIA) reported that the average monthly accident and illness pet insurance premium was $62.44 for dogs and $32.21 for cats. For accident-only coverage, the average monthly premium was $16.10 for dogs and $9.17 for cats.

Learn more about the cost of insurance for a pet and how your rate is determined.

Factors that may influence your pet insurance premium

The cost of pet insurance depends on where you live, the type of plan you choose, your pet's age and breed, and more:

• Deductible amount: A higher deductible lowers your premium, while a lower deductible increases it.
• Reimbursement percentage: Plans with lower reimbursement percentages have lower premiums. Most comprehensive accident and illness plans allow you to choose what percentage of your eligible vet bills you want reimbursed.
• Coverage type: Accident and illness plans typically cost more than accident-only plans.
• Pet details: Your pet's age, breed, and overall health may also influence your premium.
• Location: Premiums may vary based on where you live.

Is pet insurance worth it?

In short, yes. You can anticipate regular checkups and vaccines when owning a pet, but unexpected illnesses, accidents, or emergencies can cost thousands. Imagine your pet suffers a fracture or swallows a foreign object. Any X-rays, anesthesia, surgery, and follow-up care often result in expensive bills.

Some treatments for conditions like cancer or heart problems can cost over $10,000. Insurance for a dog or a cat may help you manage unexpected costs while you navigate an emergency.

How do I get pet insurance?

You can quote pet insurance from a variety of insurance companies. To quote, you'll need to provide a few details about your pet, such as:

• Name
• Pet type (dog or cat)
• Age
• Breed
• Gender

You'll also need to provide some basic information about yourself, including your name and address.

Most pet insurers will not cover pre-existing conditions. Some insurers may have a waiting period before your coverage begins. The length of the waiting period varies by state, insurer, and coverage type, ranging from a few weeks for illness coverage to a few days for accident coverage.

Learn more about how to shop for pet insurance, including when to buy it.

Frequently asked questions about pet insurance

Can I choose my own veterinarian?

You can generally choose any veterinarian as long as they're licensed and operate in the country where your insurer offers coverage.

Does pet insurance cover any pets besides cats and dogs?

Not typically. You'll need an insurer that specializes in exotic pets. When it comes to pet insurance, "exotic" may describe any animal that isn't a cat or dog. Additionally, insurance for pets doesn't cover farm animals.

Does auto insurance cover pets in a car accident?

If you have collision coverage on your Progressive personal auto policy, Pet Injury Protection covers your vet bills up to a specified limit if your pet gets injured in a car accident.^* This coverage is separate from pet insurance, and it can pay up to $1,000 for medical care if your dog or cat gets hurt in a car accident, regardless of fault.