--- title: 9 Best Pet Insurance Companies of September 2026 description: 'Here are our top pet insurance picks: Spot, AKC, Nationwide, Pumpkin, Figo, Embrace, Pets Best and MetLife.' authors: - name: Andrea Agostini Ferrer role: Lead Staff Writer url: https://money.com/author/andrea-agostini/ bio: Andrea has been our in-house insurance expert since 2021. She's dedicated hundreds of hours to researching and evaluating a wide range of insurance products — from niche plans like pet insurance to everyday essentials like auto and homeowners coverage — and applies her knowledge to help readers understand the ins and outs of these policies. education: University of Puerto Rico at_money_since: 2020 articles: 62 covers: - Insurance - Banking - Business - Credit - Credit Cards - Debt - Economy and Politics - Education - Health and Wellness - Housing - Identity Theft - Lifestyle - Loans - Mortgages - Personal Finance - Pets - Professional Services - Retirement - Shopping - Taxes editors: - name: Mallika Mitra role: Contributing Editor url: https://money.com/author/mallika-mitra/ bio: Mallika Mitra is a contributing editor for Money, based in Chicago. She has covered investing and retirement for seven years and her work has appeared in CNBC, Bloomberg, Kiplinger, AARP, Barron’s, Bankrate, The Daily Upside, ETF.com, The Bond Buyer, PLANADVISER, PLANSPONSOR and Investopedia. education: Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism at CUNY Kalamazoo College at_money_since: 2020 articles: 395 covers: - Insurance - Banking - Business - Career Advice - Credit - Credit Cards - Debt - Economy and Politics - Education - Health and Wellness - Housing - Identity Theft - Investing - Lifestyle - Loans - Mortgages - Personal Finance - Pets - Professional Services - Retirement - Shopping - Taxes - Technology also_seen_in: - CNBC - Bloomberg - Kiplinger - Barron's - Bankrate - WGN-TV - CBS News Radio - This Morning With Gordon Deal - Everyone's Talkin' Money social: - https://twitter.com/mitra_mallika - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallika-mitra-4577a386/ updaters: - name: Liliana Hall role: Reporter url: https://money.com/author/liliana-hall/ bio: Liliana Hall joined Money in 2025. She is an Austin-based reporter for Money, where she covers a range of topics, including financial news, policy, banking, investing, passive income, financial planning and student loan debt. education: University of Texas at Austin at_money_since: 2025 articles: 132 covers: - Insurance - Banking - Business - Career Advice - Credit - Credit Cards - Debt - Economy and Politics - Education - Health and Wellness - Housing - Investing - Lifestyle - Loans - Mortgages - Personal Finance - Pets - Retirement - Shopping - Taxes social: - https://x.com/lilihallllllll - https://www.linkedin.com/in/liliana-hall/ - name: Kat Tretina role: Contributor url: https://money.com/author/kat-tretina/ education: B.A in English and Communications from Elizabethtown College, M.A. in Communications from West Chester University at_money_since: 2025 articles: 17 covers: - Insurance - Loans former_staff: true expert_reviewers: - name: Paul Reynolds role: Senior Editor, Special Projects url: https://money.com/author/paul-reynolds/ bio: Money’s Special Projects Editor, Paul Reynolds, writes and edits stories about many types of insurance, including life, pet, travel and auto. He was previously Money’s Insurance Editor. education: BA, Psychology, Queen's University (Canada), Bachelor of Journalism, Carleton University (Canada) at_money_since: 2020 articles: 95 covers: - Insurance - Banking - Business - Debt - Economy and Politics - Health and Wellness - Housing - Identity Theft - Investing - Lifestyle - Loans - Personal Finance - Pets - Professional Services - Retirement - Shopping - Taxes social: - https://linkedin.com/in/paulreynoldsed/ former_staff: true published: '2026-09-02T14:33:35.000Z' modified: '2026-09-02T14:33:35.000Z' section: Insurance word_count: 2665 canonical: https://money.com/best-pet-insurance/ type: Article source: structured-blocks --- > **Disclosure:** We research all brands listed and may earn a fee from our partners. Research and financial considerations may influence how brands are displayed. Not all brands are included. [Learn more](https://money.com/page/disclaimer/). ![9 Best Pet Insurance Companies of September 2026](https://img.money.com/2023/12/Best-Pet-Insurance-mbci_t7wy3__drovlx.jpg?quality=85&w=1012&h=569&crop=1) ## Key Takeaways - AKC, Embrace, MetLife and Healthy Paws rank among the best pet insurance companies, each standing out for specialized coverage like pre-existing conditions, multi-pet plans and holistic care. Other top picks, such as Spot and Nationwide, offer benefits like unlimited coverage and plans for exotic pets. - Pet insurance reimburses you for unexpected veterinary costs — including diagnostic tests, hospitalization and surgery — if your pet gets sick or injured. - Though pet insurance seems similar to health insurance, it works more like your car or home insurance policy. You pay upfront then file an insurance claim for reimbursement. - It's best to enroll your pet when it's young and healthy in order to avoid exclusions for pre-existing conditions. - Methodology: We reviewed 19 companies across 50 data points, including basic coverage, extra benefits, limitations and exclusions, affordability, availability, customizability and ease of use. Vet bills can add up fast — especially if your pet needs emergency care, surgery or long-term treatment for an illness. New [research](https://money.com/unexpected-vet-bill/) from Money underscores how thin many household budgets already are when it comes to pet care costs. Pet insurance can help offset costly vet care, with [average monthly premiums](https://naphia.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/NAPHIA_SOI2026_Report_HIGHLIGHTS_26-06-24.pdf) around $70 for dogs and $36 for cats, according to the North American Pet Health Insurance Association's most recent data. While only about a third (34%) of policyholders in a recent Consumer Reports [survey](https://www.consumerreports.org/money/pet-insurance/best-pet-insurance-companies-a4738423520/) said they'd saved more money than they spent on premiums and deductibles, roughly 67% still felt their coverage was worth the cost. But plans vary widely in what they reimburse, what they exclude and how much they cost. Below, we break down the best pet insurance companies, plus what you need to know before choosing a plan. ## How we chose our top picks To identify the best providers on the market, our editors and writers dedicated 1,000+ hours to researching, comparing and analyzing 50+ data points from the top pet insurance companies on the market. Read the [full methodology](#methodology) to learn more. ## Our Top Picks for Best Pet Insurance of September 2026 - [AKC](#akc) - Best for Pre-Existing Conditions - [Embrace](#embrace) - Best for Military Veterans - [Figo](#figo) - Best for Reimbursement Options - [Healthy Paws](#healthypaws) - Best for Holistic Coverage - [MetLife](#metlife) - Best for Multiple Pets - [Nationwide](#nationwide) - Best for Exotic Pets - [Pets Best](#petsbest) - Best for Treatment of Mobility Issues - [Pumpkin](#pumpkin) - Best for Puppies and Kittens - [Spot](#spot) - Best for Unlimited Coverage ## Our Partners ![View Plans](https://s3.consumersadvocate.org/prd/image/image/29662/medium_68e0db61-9c40-4a9a-8674-4d1846034313.png) Our Partner [View Plans](https://money.com/go/4723bef7eec7?ap_referrer=%2Fbest-pet-insurance%2F&bidid=4041490772&ptid=663564373&ptoken=0ef0c798fe784486cf090a51a2ec77c6&zip=20149) **🏅"Best Annual Unlimited Coverage" by Forbes** - Reimburses Up to 90%, No Max Annual or Lifetime Payouts - Backed by Chubb - a Trusted Name in Insurance - Covers Accidents, Illness, Hereditary Conditions & More - Most Claims are Processed in 2 Days * * * ![View Plans](https://s3.consumersadvocate.org/prd/image/image/29658/medium_180feef1-c7e9-47f4-ae9c-f6f3e701e0ae.png) Our Partner [View Plans](https://money.com/go/7cb41423430e?ap_referrer=%2Fbest-pet-insurance%2F&bidid=4041490793&ptid=663564373&ptoken=d0733ae754208a9a41c679215af69b60&zip=20149) **🐶 Affordable Plans Starting at Less than $1/Day** - Get up to 90% back on vet bills - Flexible Coverage Options, No Upper Age Limits - Providing Comprehensive Pet Insurance for Over 900,000 Pets - Multiple Wellness Plan Options * * * ![View Plans](https://s3.consumersadvocate.org/prd/image/image/27224/medium_0064768b-d029-4c4e-b916-5ae9a068cbe4.png) Our Partner [View Plans](https://money.com/go/edae04686fb1?ap_referrer=%2Fbest-pet-insurance%2F&bidid=4041490781&ptid=663564373&ptoken=eca87f8c83091645211223678ae7d8cc&zip=20149) **Price Includes What Other Providers Charge Extra for or Don't Cover at All**  - Get Back up to 90% on Unexpected Vet Bills - Dental Coverage for Every Tooth, Plus Gums - Covers Exam Fees (Save $50-$250 per Sick Visit) - Use Any Vet in the U.S. or Canada * * * ![View Plans](https://s3.consumersadvocate.org/prd/image/image/22628/medium_cd1f6ffb-0207-4043-b6ec-be1dea1b364c.png) Our Partner [View Plans](https://money.com/go/64b8af123e25?ap_referrer=%2Fbest-pet-insurance%2F&bidid=4041490779&ptid=663564373&ptoken=52a0544c48c5607b57d4d3304d434f51&zip=20149) **2025 Pet Insurance of the Year Award Winner** - No Lifetime or Per Incident Limits - Most Claims Processed in 5 Days or Less - One of the Shortest Waiting Periods for Accident & Illness Coverage * * * ![View Plans](https://s3.consumersadvocate.org/prd/image/image/33968/medium_778ede1d-ae43-453e-8668-9dba77d2f061.webp) Our Partner [View Plans](https://money.com/go/181689f6d82c?ap_referrer=%2Fbest-pet-insurance%2F&bidid=4041490785&ptid=663564373&ptoken=f4f8196e3e04397b73fe3e46e228234f&zip=20149) **Unlimited Reimbursement at Any Vet** - Covers Illnesses, Conditions & Accidents - Add Dental & Prescription Coverage - Wellness Plan for Routine Check-ups, Grooming & Training - Over 18 Years of Pet Insurance Expertise * * * ![View Plans](https://s3.consumersadvocate.org/prd/image/image/29657/medium_f6e5e594-b60d-4dfd-a2ce-c903d0fb009a.png) Our Partner [View Plans](https://money.com/go/2a8af2ad9fbe?ap_referrer=%2Fbest-pet-insurance%2F&bidid=4041490791&ptid=663564373&ptoken=76ee7eeba0c8c20c72d080a435b2e8ac&zip=20149) **🐕 Pet Insurance Starting as low as $10 per Month** - Save Big on Tests, Vaccines & Essential Care - Coverage for Spaying, Neutering & Microchipping Available - Up to 10% Off with Bundle or Multi-Pet Discount - Unclaimed Premiums are Donated to Charities of Your Choice \*Not available in all states.  * * * ![View Plans](https://s3.consumersadvocate.org/prd/image/image/27602/medium_249e8d31-e3fc-423f-8c0c-838e7a8255af.webp) Our Partner [View Plans](https://money.com/go/910ea2162612?ap_referrer=%2Fbest-pet-insurance%2F&bidid=4041490775&ptid=663564373&ptoken=7871300fc5069fd76af91862ad85d3b0&zip=20149) **🐶 Only Provider to Pay Vet Bills Instantly** - Unlimited payouts for life - Loved by 1 Million Pet Parents, 3 Billion in Vet Bills Paid - Protecting dogs and cats for over 25 years - Voted #1 pet insurance by veterinarians * * * ## Best for Pre-Existing Conditions: AKC Pet Insurance ![](https://s3.consumersadvocate.org/prd/image/image/13844/large_811e548a-101f-4407-8e2b-2aa645022b47.webp) [View Plans](https://money.com/pr/fd6571659cce?ap_referrer=%2Fbest-pet-insurance%2F) **Pros** - Offers supplemental accident and illness coverage for breeding pets - Direct payments to vets available under certain conditions - 24/7 vet hotline available to policyholders **Cons** - Coverage for congenital and hereditary conditions costs extra - Limits on coverage for recurring issues, such as toxic ingestion - 6-month waiting period for intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) ### HIGHLIGHTS Plan options Accident and illness, accident-only, preventive care Annual payout limit $2.5K, $5K, $7.5K,$10K, $15K, 20K, unlimited Reimbursement rates 70%, 80%, 90% Annual deductible $100, $250, $300, $400, $500, $600, $750, $1K Waiting periods 2 days for accidents, 14 days for illnesses, 180 days for for IVDD Discounts Multi-pet **Why we chose AKC:** The [American Kennel Club’s](https://money.com/pr/q63543b61d89?ap_referrer=https%253A%252F%252Fmoney.com%252Fbest-pet-insurance%252F) (AKC) pet insurance policy offers unprecedented coverage for preexisting conditions. It covers illnesses and injuries sustained before the policy's effective date or during the waiting period. To qualify, you must keep the policy active for 365 days. Any preexisting issue that was initially excluded will be fully covered once the waiting period elapses and the policy renews. You can also pay extra for endorsements to get coverage for preventive care, end-of-life expenses, veterinary exam fees, behavioral therapy and issues related to breeding. * * * ## Best for Military Veterans: Embrace Pet Insurance ![](https://s3.consumersadvocate.org/prd/image/image/17968/large_6f31f96f-16b7-4c4c-bfec-6e879596734b.png) [View Plans](https://money.com/pr/j7ec2bc1f99d?ap_referrer=%2Fbest-pet-insurance%2F&url=) **Pros** - Policies include coverage for alternative therapies - Up to $1,000 per year in dental illness coverage - Includes up to six months of pet travel insurance - 25% discount for military members, veterans and eligible relatives on USAA-issued policies **Cons** - Long waiting period for orthopedic conditions - Limits on coverage for foreign body ingestion - Medical exam required within 12 months of policy start date ### HIGHLIGHTS Plan options Accident and illness, accident-only Annual payout limit $2k, unlimited Reimbursement rates 70%, 80%, 90% Annual deductible $200, $1K Waiting periods 14 days for illnesses, two days for injuries, 180 days for orthopedic conditions Discounts Multi-pet, military and healthy pet **Why we chose Embrace:** Through a partnership with USAA, [Embrace](https://money.com/pr/t5e6c54b811e?amp%3Bdata-trk-pcu-type=direct_link&%3Bdata-trk-pcu-uuid=t5e6c54b811e&%3Bencoded_id=&%3Bap_referrer=https%253A%252F%252Fmoney.com%252Fbest-pet-insurance%252F) pet insurance offers some of the biggest discounts to military veterans and service members. If you buy a policy through the USAA insurance agency, you can qualify for a 15% discount. And military members and members with service dogs can qualify for an additional 10% off, giving some members up to 25% off their pet insurance policy. * * * ## Best for Reimbursement Options: Figo Pet Insurance ![](https://s3.consumersadvocate.org/prd/image/image/16795/large_53b6fa4f-12e3-40ea-b73b-2ff4ce81d72e.png) [View Plans](https://money.com/pr/t4101396920b?ap_referrer=%2Fbest-pet-insurance%2F) **Pros** - Up to 100% reimbursement with no annual limits - No upper age enrollment limit - 1-day waiting period for accidents **Cons** - Low payout limits in wellness care plan - Requires 24 months of medical records for first claim - 6-month waiting period for orthopedic conditions ### HIGHLIGHTS Plan options Accident and illness, wellness rider Annual payout limit $5K,$10K, unlimited Reimbursement rates 70%, 80%, 90%, 100% Annual deductible $100, $250, $500, $750, $1K Waiting periods 1 day for accidents, 14 days for illnesses, six months for orthopedic conditions Discounts Multi-pet **Why we chose Figo:** Most competitors offer only up to 90% reimbursement. [Figo](https://money.com/pr/ved3845950f6?ap_referrer=https%253A%252F%252Fmoney.com%252Fbest-pet-insurance%252F) stands out because pet owners can choose up to 100% reimbursement without annual payout limits and avoid copayments entirely. Pet owners can reduce their copayment to 0%, thanks to the insurer's 100% reimbursement option. (Generally, the lowest copayment provided by other insurers is 10%.) The company also offers endorsements that add coverage for pet boarding, lost or stolen pets (as in advertising costs and the value of the pet if it isn't found) and pet liability insurance. * * * ## Best for Holistic Coverage: Healthy Paws Pet Insurance ![](https://s3.consumersadvocate.org/prd/image/image/38285/large_2d2f702f-3ded-49aa-8390-210b77ed352c.webp) [View Plans](https://money.com/pr/p45979815bab?ap_referrer=%2Fbest-pet-insurance%2F) ### HIGHLIGHTS Plan options Accident and illness Annual payout limit $2.5K, $3K, $5K, $7K, $10K or unlimited Reimbursement rates 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90% Annual deductible $250, $500, $750, $1,000 Waiting periods 15 days for accidents and illnesses, 12 months for hip dysplasia Discounts PetSmart Treats Rewards discount **Pros** - Standard policies cover holistic/alternative care - Quick claims processing - Highly-rated mobile app **Cons** - Long waiting period for hip dysplasia - No coverage for hip dysplasia for pets enrolled at age six or older - No wellness plans or endorsements available **Why we chose Healthy Paws:** With many pet insurance policies, alternative or complementary treatments like acupuncture, hydrotherapy, or laser therapy aren't covered, or they're only covered if you pay to add an endorsement to your policy. By contrast, Healthy Paws (a Chubb-owned MGA, underwritten by Chubb-affiliated carriers) includes coverage for holistic care under its standard accident and illness plan. Plus, [Healthy Paws](https://money.com/pr/d3007ea468a5?data-trk-company=healthy-paws-review&data-trk-imp=true&data-trk-pcu-type=direct_link&data-trk-pcu-uuid=d3007ea468a5&encoded_id=) makes it quick and easy to submit a claim through its mobile app, and the company says most claims are reimbursed within two business days. And you can get a 10% discount on new policies if you sign up for PetSmart's free Treats Rewards program and enroll in a Healthy Paws plan through that program. * * * ## Best for Multiple Pets: Metlife ![](https://s3.consumersadvocate.org/prd/image/image/22628/large_cd1f6ffb-0207-4043-b6ec-be1dea1b364c.png) [View Plans](https://money.com/pr/t0ac4a4a11a0?ap_referrer=%2Fbest-pet-insurance%2F) **Pros** - Family plans with shared deductibles available - Coverage for prescription food, medications, and alternative therapies included - Diminishing deductible for each claim-free year - Offers coverage for exotic pets **Cons** - No standalone accident-only plan - Terms and conditions vary by underwriter - 6-month waiting period for cruciate ligament problems applies in some states ### HIGHLIGHTS Plan options Accident and illness Annual payout limit $2,000 to $10,000 Reimbursement rates 70%-90% Annual deductible $50 to $500 Waiting periods Same-day coverage for accidents, 14 days for illnesses, 6 months for orthopedic conditions Discounts Multi-pet discount and diminishing deductible **Why we chose Metlife:** With [MetLife](https://money.com/pr/ka037ca832a4?ap_referrer=https%253A%252F%252Fmoney.com%252Fbest-pet-insurance%252F), pet owners with multiple pets don’t have to stress about meeting a separate deductible for each animal. Policyholders can enroll up to three animals under one plan and each eligible vet visit contributes towards the same deductible. Once the deductible is met, every pet is eligible for coverage for the remainder of the year. And Metlife is one of the few companies that also has coverage options for exotic pets, such as sugar gliders or cockatiels. * * * ## Best for Exotic Pets: Nationwide Pet Insurance ![](https://s3.consumersadvocate.org/prd/image/image/1265/large_qLzmnJGWrEMjIvCKBreNbTOQUGhReC.png) [View Plans](https://money.com/pr/f315c4d8c840?ap_referrer=%2Fbest-pet-insurance%2F) **Pros** - No per-incident, annual or lifetime caps - Covers alternative therapy for diagnosed conditions - Direct payments available under certain conditions **Cons** - Owners of exotic pets must call to get a quote or sign up - Limited coverage for hip dysplasia - 12-month waiting period for knee injuries in dogs and cats ### HIGHLIGHTS Plan options Accident and illness, preventive care plan Annual payout limit $10K Reimbursement rates 50%, 70% or 80% Annual deductible $250, $500, $1,000 Waiting periods 14 days for accidents and illnesses Discounts Multi-pet **Why we chose:** [Nationwide](https://money.com/pr/u5cb4bee0ab0?ap_referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fmoney.com%2Fbest-pet-insurance%2F) is one of the only pet insurance companies that offers insurance for avian and exotic pets. The Avian & Exotic Pet Plan covers most birds, rabbits, reptiles and small mammals, including goats and pot-bellied pigs. (Note that any animal not explicitly listed on the Nationwide website isn’t eligible, including those listed under venomous or endangered species.) Owners of exotic pets can select up to 90% reimbursement for covered accidents and illnesses and add preventive care riders as well. * * * ## Best for Treatment of Mobility Issues: Pets Best Pet Insurance ![](https://s3.consumersadvocate.org/prd/image/image/13846/large_243527b5-5e29-4625-8f23-4d1d9d4870a6.png) [View Plans](https://money.com/pr/r1dc06e4854c?ap_referrer=%2Fbest-pet-insurance%2F) **Pros** - Coverage for prosthetic devices and wheelchairs - Wide range of deductibles - Covers pets as young as seven weeks with no upper age limit - Direct payments to vets available upon request **Cons** - Slow claims processing - Excludes alternative therapy and behavioral modification - Policy upgrades are not available until the renewal date ### HIGHLIGHTS Plan options Accident and illness, accident-only, wellness rider Annual payout limit $2.5K, $5K, $10K, unlimited Reimbursement rates 70%, 80%, 90% Annual deductible $50, $100, $250, $500, $1K Waiting periods Varies by state. 0 to 3 days for accidents, 14 days for illnesses, 1 to 6 months for cruciate ligament conditions Discounts Multi-pet **Why we chose Pets Best:** [Pets Best](https://money.com/pr/ze8cbed378d2?ap_referrer=https%253A%252F%252Fmoney.com%252Fbest-pet-insurance%252F) is one of the few pet insurance companies that cover prosthetic devices and wheelchairs when prescribed by a veterinarian to treat a covered accident or illness. The company also has a wide range of coverage options and deductibles, and it offers pet insurance for cats and dogs as young as seven weeks. Lastly, pet owners can waive the accident and illness waiting period with a medical exam on the same day they purchase coverage. This waiver does not apply to cruciate ligament issues. * * * ## Best for Puppies and Kittens: Pumpkin Pet Insurance ![](https://s3.consumersadvocate.org/prd/image/image/39125/large_af3b4d18-049a-4020-b3ba-2945b0712fd7.webp) [View Plans](https://money.com/pr/s16928e48977?ap_referrer=%2Fbest-pet-insurance%2F) **Pros** - Preventive care packages for the particular needs of puppies and kittens - No upper age limit - Covers fees for vet exams, the ASPCA Poison Control Center and the Pet Poison Helpline at no extra cost **Cons** - No accident-only option - Preventive plan doesn't cover spay/neuter or dental cleanings - Most expensive option in our survey ### HIGHLIGHTS Plan options Accident and illness, wellness rider Annual payout limit $10K, $20K, unlimited Reimbursement rates 90% Annual deductible $100, $250, $500, $1K Waiting periods 14 days for accidents and illnesses Discounts Multi-pet **Why we chose Pumpkin:** [Pumpkin](https://money.com/pr/e1cc9829ac05?ap_referrer=https%253A%252F%252Fmoney.com%252Fbest-pet-insurance%252F) offers extensive insurance and non-insurance preventive care options tailored to junior animals. The company's puppy preventive care pack includes one annual wellness exam fee, four puppy vaccines and one yearly fecal test. It will also refund the lab tests for parasites and the cost of up to four vaccines your puppy may have received prior to being insured. Pumpkin's accident and illness policy also includes some standout benefits: microchip implantation, stem cell therapy and a pet poison control consultation fee. * * * ## Best for Unlimited Coverage: Spot Pet Insurance ![](https://s3.consumersadvocate.org/prd/image/image/15015/large_5e0a6ef3-b7ae-4bc4-88d4-c87e0fd58608.png) [View Plans](https://money.com/pr/abe19974de10?ap_referrer=%2Fbest-pet-insurance%2F&url=) **Pros** - Unlimited annual coverage available - No upper age limit - 24/7 telehealth helpline - Shorter-than-usual waiting periods **Cons** - Higher-than-average premiums for young pets, especially for unlimited coverage - Bilateral exclusions apply - Charges transaction fees for monthly, quarterly or semi-annual payments ### HIGHLIGHTS Plan options Accident and illness, accident-only, wellness rider Annual payout limit $2.5K, $3K, $5K, $7K, $10K or unlimited Reimbursement rates 70%, 80% or 90% Annual deductible $100, $250, $500, $750 or $1K Waiting periods 14 days for accidents and illnesses Discounts 10% employee, 10% multi-pet **Why we chose S****pot****:** We picked [Spot](https://money.com/pr/b305b163f3f4?ap_referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fmoney.com%2Fbest-pet-insurance%2F) as the best for unlimited coverage because it caters to pet parents who want to maximize their pet’s coverage, no matter the cost. Spot is also a fine choice for older pets since there’s no age limit for coverage. In addition, the company offers a very low ($100) deductible option, which further reduces your out-of-pocket payments for care. That said, choosing one or both of a low co-payment and a low deductible can lead to higher premiums for the policy. * * * ### Other companies we considered In this section, you'll find insurance agencies that stood out in some respects but didn't quite match the strengths of our top picks. #### ASPCA **Why it didn't make the cut:** [ASPCA](https://money.com/pr/c71993364763?ap_referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fmoney.com%2Fbest-pet-insurance%2F) and Spot provide identical insurance policies. Ultimately, Spot made it to our top picks due to its unlimited annual payout feature, which is not available with ASPCA, and its 24/7 pet telehealth helpline. Read [ASPCA Pet Insurance](https://money.com/aspca-pet-insurance-review/) full review #### Lemonade **Why it didn't make the cut**: [**Lemonade**](https://money.com/pr/g2ec239e4bb0?ap_referrer=https%253A%252F%252Fmoney.com%252Fbest-pet-insurance%252F) is only available in 42 states and the District of Columbia, but you can sign up for updates on its website. Read [Lemonade Pet Insurance](https://money.com/lemonade-pet-insurance-review/) full review #### Fetch **Why it didn't make the cut:** Although [Fetch](https://secure.money.com/branded/splash?ap_referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fmoney.com%2Fbest-pet-insurance%2F&apnavid=187ef3cdff9828dcc7dcdec2b2c3e41d&company_alias=fetch-pet-insurance-review&pcuid=i00eee598364&redirect_to_top=1&skip_dynamic_offer=true&vertical_alias=pet-insurance&zip=20108) has up to a 15-day waiting period for most illnesses (with no waiting period for accidents), it has a six-month waiting period for hip and knee injuries. The extended waiting period can be waived for knee conditions if the pet undergoes a veterinary exam within 180 days of the purchase date and is cleared of any knee issues. However, the waiver does not apply to hip-related injuries. Additionally, the company now offers a wellness-only plan, which was not previously available. * * * ### Over 550,000 Pets Enrolled ![View Plans](https://s3.consumersadvocate.org/prd/image/image/29662/medium_68e0db61-9c40-4a9a-8674-4d1846034313.png) Our Partner [View Plans](https://money.com/go/0d45cd2c5ce5?bidid=4041490755&pmeta=p129-c711-u25251&ptid=663564370&ptoken=9ccd847791497cffef57e0f9484ff004) ### Covers Illnesses, Conditions & Accidents ![View Plans](https://s3.consumersadvocate.org/prd/image/image/33968/medium_778ede1d-ae43-453e-8668-9dba77d2f061.webp) Our Partner [View Plans](https://money.com/go/3472e701614c?bidid=4041490757&pmeta=p129-c711-u25251&ptid=663564370&ptoken=45018b85974b50f9038ecdb11df6b75b) ### Starting as low as $10 per Month ![View Plans](https://s3.consumersadvocate.org/prd/image/image/29657/medium_f6e5e594-b60d-4dfd-a2ce-c903d0fb009a.png) Our Partner [View Plans](https://money.com/go/99cc243b0ef3?bidid=4041490759&pmeta=p129-c711-u25251&ptid=663564370&ptoken=fd31814a8d8c5de958e0011a468280d0) ## What You Need to Know About Pet Insurance Pet insurance can help cover the cost of treating your furry friend if they get injured or ill. If your pet stays relatively healthy, setting money aside in a savings account can be a sound strategy — but if there's an expensive [emergency](https://money.com/how-much-is-an-emergency-vet-visit/), you may not have enough to cover the bill. That’s where pet insurance can be useful. ### What does pet insurance cover? Pet insurance covers diagnostic tests, hospitalization, surgery, prescription medication and long-term treatment for accidents and chronic conditions such as allergies or diabetes. Most policies also cover medically necessary physical and [behavioral therapy](https://money.com/dog-therapy-and-pet-insurance/). As with most insurance policies, there are exclusions. Pet insurance doesn't cover routine care, pre-existing conditions or injuries due to owner negligence. Check out our [pet insurance coverage guide](https://money.com/what-pet-insurance-covers/) for more information. ### How much is pet insurance? The average cost of pet insurance is approximately $36 per month for cats and $70 per month for dogs, according to 2026 [data](https://naphia.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/NAPHIA_SOI2026_Report_HIGHLIGHTS_26-06-24.pdf) from NAPHIA. In our sample of providers, the cheapest pet insurance quotes for a young pet were $15 per month for cats and $40 for dogs. The price jumped to prohibitive amounts for a 10-year-old dog. The cheapest rate was $139 a month. Check out our explainer on [how much pet insurance is](https://money.com/how-much-is-pet-insurance/) for more information about the cost of pet insurance, how premiums are calculated and what out-of-pocket expenses to expect. If you’re on a tight budget, our roundup of the [cheapest pet insurance](https://money.com/best-cheap-pet-insurance/) is a good place to start. ### Types of pet insurance | **Accident & illness policy** | **Accident coverage** | **Wellness riders** | | --- | --- | --- | | Covers diagnosis, surgery, hospitalization, treatment and medications for any covered accident or illness. | Pays only for the treatment of sudden accidents or injuries (e.g., poisonings, broken bones or bloating). | Reimburses policyholders for services such as vaccinations, microchipping, dental cleanings and heartworm prevention. | ### Is pet insurance worth it? If your pet leads a healthy life, pet insurance may not be [worth it](https://money.com/does-pet-insurance-pay/). However, the [cost of veterinary care](https://money.com/why-are-vet-bills-so-expensive/) is on an upward trajectory and having insurance can help the bill for a serious injury or illness. Dr. Karen Halligan, host of Collars and Cents, points out that modern treatments like stem cell transplants or open-heart surgery are now possible and having an insurance policy is the biggest determinant in whether the pet gets the treatment or not. Dr. Lindsey Butzer of Clint Moore Animal Hospital has seen firsthand how financial limitations often lead to euthanasia or delays in treatment. "People won't pay for their dog over their groceries," she says ### How does pet insurance work? Pet insurance has no network restrictions, so you can take your pet to any licensed specialist. Coverage begins after you've met the policy's deductible and after a waiting period of one to 14 days (the exact number depends on whether the issue is an accident or illness). Some insurers waive the waiting period if your pet gets a nose-to-tail medical exam before enrollment and within a few days of the policy's start date. Once you meet the deductible, you'll pay the vet bill and file for reimbursement — unless your insurer offers direct payments to vets. Most insurers cover 70% to 90% of the bill, up to the policy's annual reimbursement limit, and any outstanding balance beyond the policy's limits is paid out of your own pocket. It’s important to note that some insurers don't allow you to change the reimbursement terms once your policy is active. You'd have to cancel the policy and re-enroll to make these changes, and your pet's medical conditions would become preexisting issues. Be sure to ask the insurer whether they allow changes to the policy's terms. Read our article on [how to buy pet insurance](https://money.com/how-to-buy-pet-insurance/) for more guidance. ### What is a preexisting condition in pet insurance? A [preexisting condition](https://money.com/pet-insurance-for-pre-existing-conditions/) clause excludes any illness or injury that happened before your pet was insured or during the waiting period. The implications of this restriction sometimes come as a surprise to pet owners. Here's what you need to know. **Switching providers is difficult** You may want to change insurers if your current policy is too expensive or you're dissatisfied with the coverage, but this change can leave you in a worse position. A new pet insurance company won't cover any previous injuries or illnesses, even if they were covered under the previous plan. **A preexisting illness may be covered if it's curable** Some insurers cover one-time issues like an ear infection or a skin rash, provided that the pet is cured and symptom-free for roughly six months. **Bilateral problems like cataracts or knee injuries aren't covered if they're preexisting** Bilateral conditions are issues that occur on both sides of the body like hip dysplasia or leg injuries. For insurance purposes, bilateral conditions are considered a single incident. This means that if your dog has a preexisting tear on its left knee, any future problems on the right knee are also excluded. ## Methodology To identify the best pet insurance companies of 2026, we reviewed 19 companies across 50 data points, which can be summarized as follows: - **Basic coverage:** Our top picks cover [exam fees](https://money.com/pet-exam-fees-sponsored-fetch/), diagnostic testing, treatment, surgery, medications and hospitalizations for accidents and illnesses. We skipped companies that didn't cover curable pre-existing conditions, as this would mean that one-time ailments such as respiratory infections or a stomach bug could potentially be excluded. - **Extra benefits:** Not all providers cover alternative therapies, behavioral modification, telehealth services or offer 24/7 vet support. We also took note of providers that offer coverage for non-health-related issues, such as advertising for lost or stolen pets and pet boarding in the event the owner falls ill. - **Limitations and exclusions:** We reviewed the provider's upper age limits and cut-off points for coverage. Many accept pets regardless of age, some issue only accident-only policies after the pet reaches a certain age and others deny coverage if the pet is too old. We also identified any additional lifetime or per-incident payout limits that could increase a buyer's out-of-pocket expenses. - **Affordability:** We gathered sample quotes using the pet profiles of a one-year-old Labrador Retriever and a one-year-old domestic shorthair cat from Mami, Florida. With that data, we identified which insurers offer the best rates for similar coverage. - **Availability:** Most pet insurance providers are licensed to sell policies in all 50 states. And once you have a policy, you can typically visit any licensed veterinarian in the U.S., Canada and any U.S. military base overseas. We excluded companies that issued policies with limited membership and insurers that resell policies from other providers. - **Customizability:** Multiple deductible, payout, and reimbursement options allow policyholders to tweak the coverage details to get a premium within their budget. Most providers allow this flexibility. - **Ease of use:** Most pet insurance companies do well in this regard, featuring streamlined quote tools, well-designed websites and mobile apps. ## Latest News in Pet Insurance Rising veterinary costs continue to drive interest in pet insurance, while also drawing increased scrutiny to policy features such as reimbursement rates, annual coverage limits and waiting periods. Health savings accounts (HSA) and flexible spending accounts (FSA) let you set tax-free money aside to pay for eligible medical expenses for yourself, your spouse and other dependents. Under current IRS rules, however, pet-related expenses generally do not qualify. That could change under the [People and Animals Well-being (PAW) Act](https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/1842?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%22paw+act%22%7D&s=5&r=3), a bipartisan initiative introduced in the House of Representatives on March 4, 2025, by Rep. Deborah Ross (D-N.C.) and Rep. Claudia Tenney (R-N.Y.). If passed, the bill would allow pet owners to claim up to $1,000 in veterinary care as HSA and FSA-eligible medical expenses. As of press time, the bill has not advanced out of committee. This money could be put towards veterinary bills or pet health insurance premiums, giving some needed financial relief to pet owners as the price tag on veterinary care climbs. Pet insurance is also seeing increased regulatory attention at the state level. As of 2026, [at least 17 states](https://content.naic.org/sites/default/files/model-law-state-page-633_1.pdf) have adopted laws inspired by guidance from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), which treat pet insurance as a distinct product. They include requirements on clearer disclosures on waiting periods, exclusions, deductibles and how claims are paid. More states are expected to follow, a shift aimed at giving pet owners a better understanding of their coverage as interest in pet insurance and the cost of veterinary care continue to rise. * * * ## Pet Insurance FAQs ### How much does a vet visit cost? A typical veterinary bill was about $392 per claim in 2025, up 32% from 2020, according to [research](https://www.healthypawspetinsurance.com/pet-insurance-research/soaring-pet-costs-are-pushing-household-budgets-to-the-limit.html/) by Money and Healthy Paws Pet Insurance. Routine veterinary costs vary by pet and type of care, while emergency treatment can cost hundreds or thousands of dollars. About 29% of pet owners surveyed spend at least $100 a month on veterinary care. ### How does pet insurance know about pre-existing conditions? Pet insurance companies identify pre-existing conditions by reviewing your pet's healthcare records or requesting a nose-to-tail medical exam before enrollment. To gather your pet's medical records, the company might request the contact information of every shelter or veterinarian that has treated your pet in the past. ### What is a good annual limit for pet insurance? A $5,000 to $10,000 annual limit is generally enough to cover most yearly veterinary expenses, but higher limits can provide more protection against costly illnesses or accidents. Chronic health conditions can result in bills exceeding $10,000, according to research by Money and Healthy Paws Pet Insurance. Assess your pet's susceptibility to certain conditions and typical treatment costs in your area when choosing a limit. ### Do pet insurance companies have networks? No — pet insurance companies generally don’t have network restrictions, so you can take your pet to any licensed veterinarian. ### Does pet insurance only cover dogs and cats? Most pet insurance plans cover dogs and cats, but some insurers also offer coverage for other animals. Nationwide, one of Money’s top picks, offers pet insurance for birds, reptiles, small mammals and other exotic pets. Coverage and eligible species vary by insurer, so check the policy before enrolling. ## Summary of Money’s Best Pet Insurance Companies of September 2026 - [AKC](#akc) - Best for Pre-Existing Conditions - [Embrace](#embrace) - Best for Military Veterans - [Figo](#figo) - Best for Reimbursement Options - [Healthy Paws](#healthypaws) - Best for Holistic Coverage - [MetLife](#metlife) - Best for Multiple Pets - [Nationwide](#nationwide) - Best for Exotic Pets - [Pets Best](#petsbest) - Best for Treatment of Mobility Issues - [Pumpkin](#pumpkin) - Best for Puppies and Kittens - [Spot](#spot) - Best for Unlimited Coverage ```json { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@graph": [ { "@type": "BreadcrumbList", "@id": "https://money.com/best-pet-insurance/#breadcrumb", "itemListElement": [ { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 1, "name": "Home", "item": "https://money.com" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 2, "name": "Insurance", "item": "https://money.com/insurance/" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 3, "name": "Pet Insurance", "item": "https://money.com/pet-insurance/" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 4, "name": "9 Best Pet Insurance Companies of September 2026" } ] }, { "@type": "WebSite", "@id": "https://money.com/#website", "url": "https://money.com", "name": "Money", "publisher": { "@id": "https://money.com/#organization" } }, { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://money.com/best-pet-insurance/#webpage", "url": "https://money.com/best-pet-insurance/", "name": "9 Best Pet Insurance Companies of September 2026", "isPartOf": { "@id": "https://money.com/#website" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-02T14:33:35.000Z", "mainEntity": { "@id": "https://money.com/best-pet-insurance/" }, "inLanguage": "en-US", "breadcrumb": { "@id": "https://money.com/best-pet-insurance/#breadcrumb" }, "dateModified": "2026-09-02T14:33:35.000Z", "reviewedBy": [ { "@type": "Person", "name": "Paul Reynolds", "url": "https://money.com/author/paul-reynolds/", "@id": "https://money.com/author/paul-reynolds/#author", "description": "Money’s Special Projects Editor, Paul Reynolds, writes and edits stories about many types of insurance, including life, pet, travel and auto. 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