Pet Insurance

Reviewed by Dr. Lauren Stayer, DVM on September 3, 2026

Have you ever thought about getting pet insurance? Most pet owners consider it at some point, whether it’s because a pet is sick and needs treatment or because they’re bringing home a new pet. Even veterinarians can’t always predict which procedures a pet may eventually need, and having pet insurance can help cover the cost when the unexpected happens. Pet insurance isn’t for everyone, but it’s worth considering when you add a new pet to your family.

How Does Pet Insurance Work?

• The owner signs their pet up for insurance. Typically an exam by a veterinarian is needed to confirm the pet is healthy; otherwise, there may be more restrictions or waiting periods.
• The owner chooses a deductible. Just like human insurance, the owner is responsible for paying this amount before the pet insurance starts covering costs.
• Most often, the owner pays the veterinary clinic directly, submits the invoice to the insurance company, and is then reimbursed by the pet insurance company.

Some Additional Considerations

• Company. There are many different companies that provide pet insurance. They may differ in what they cover or how their deductible works, so research these factors and choose one that fits your needs.
• Deductible. All pet insurance has a deductible. Usually you can choose the amount, but pay attention to whether the deductible applies per year or per condition.
• Services covered. Most pet insurance covers accidents and illnesses. This means preventive care, such as vaccinations, spay/neuter procedures, and dental cleanings, may not be covered. Some policies also restrict coverage for orthopedic conditions or cancer treatment. Choose a policy that matches your expectations for what will be covered.
• Breed or age restrictions. Some breeds are more prone to certain conditions, so if you have a purebred pet, ask whether any conditions are excluded. As pets age, they typically have more health issues, so price may increase or coverage may become more restricted.
• Limits on payout. If your pet needs intensive testing, treatment, or surgery, a payout limit could leave you responsible for more of the bill than expected.
• Waiting period. Many pet insurance companies apply a waiting period before covering certain health problems. If there’s a waiting period for orthopedic injuries, for example, you’ll need to be prepared to cover those costs if your pet is injured during that window.
• Pre-existing conditions. Most pet insurance won’t cover a pre-existing condition, which is why signing up while your pet is young and healthy tends to be more beneficial.

There are a lot of factors to consider when choosing a pet insurance company. Ask questions, do some research, and pick a plan that works best for you and your pet.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pet Insurance