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Published: Mar 01, 2024 36 min read

Best Pet Insurance Main Takeaways

  • Spot features unlimited coverage without age caps
  • Figo offers 100% reimbursement and unlimited payouts
  • AKC is the best option for pre-existing conditions
  • Pumpkin offers excellent preventive pet care package
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Company Highlight
TOP PARTNER
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  • Get up to 90% back at any vet
  • 5% military discount available
  • Comprehensive illness & accident coverage – no levels
  • Optional wellness plan covers routine vet, grooming, & training costs
  • Customizable annual deductible, annual limit, & reimbursement percentage
Our Partner
  • 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee*
  • Up to 90% reimbursement on eligible vet bills, including accident and illness
  • Multi-pet discount & access to 24/7 vet helpline
  • Visit any U.S. licensed veterinarian or specialist
  • *Subject to terms and conditions
Our Partner
  • Comprehensive coverage at affordable prices
  • No upper age limit on enrollment
  • Choose $5000 annual or unlimited benefits
  • 24/7 veterinary support line for all customers
Our Partner
  • Coverage starting at as little as $10 per month 
  • Optional preventive care policy available
  • Quick claims payment & easy-to-understand policies
  • Live chat with veterinary experts through mobile app
Our Partner
  • Reimbursement for up to 100% of vet costs
  • Coverage options for less than $1 a day
  • Take your pet to any licensed vet, emergency clinic, or specialist in the US
  • Coverage for pets of any age and breed

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At Money Magazine, we have been helping readers navigate personal finance since 1972. Our editors and writers evaluate insurance companies independently, ensuring our content is precise and guided by editorial integrity. Read the full methodology to learn more.

  • Based on 50+ data points
  • Reviewed 19 insurers
  • 1,000+ hours of research

Our Top Picks for Best Pet Insurance of March 2024

  • Embrace - Best for International Coverage
  • Spot - Best for Unlimited Coverage
  • MetLife - Best for Multiple Pets
  • Pumpkin - Best for Puppies and Kittens
  • AKC - Best for Pre-Existing Conditions
  • Figo - Best for Reimbursement Options
  • Pets Best - Best for Treatment of Mobility Issues
  • Lemonade - Best for Fast Claims Processing
  • Nationwide - Best for Exotic Pets
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Protect your furry friend with Embrace Pet Insurance
Get up to 90% reimbursement on vet bills. Customized coverage is available. Select your state for a free quote.
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Best Pet Insurance Company Reviews

Sample premiums are based on quotes for a 5-year-old Maine Coon and a 5-year-old German shepherd from Columbia, South Carolina.

Plan options

Accident and illness, accident-only

Annual payout limit

$5K, $8K, $10K, $15K or $30K

Reimbursement rates

70%, 80% or 90%

Annual Deductible

$100, $250, $500, $750 or $1K

Waiting periods

14 days for illnesses

Sample premium for cats

$24.08

Sample premium for dogs

$37.17

Discounts

10% multi-pet, 5% military and 5% to 10% healthy pet

Why we chose Embrace

We picked Embrace as the best pet insurance for multiple discounts because it offers a 5% to 10% discount if you don't file a claim during the policy's term, in addition to multi-pet and military discounts.

Pros
  • High upper age limit for enrollment
  • High annual reimbursement limit option compared to other competitors with annual caps
  • Includes up to six months of travel pet insurance abroad
Cons
  • Limited wellness benefits
  • Caps dental illness coverage at $1,000 a year
  • Patellar luxation and hip dysplasia are excluded for six months

Embrace offers comprehensive pet insurance plans that are on par with those of the best pet insurance providers on the market. The company will reimburse you for the diagnosis and treatment of most accidents and illnesses that aren't pre-existing. This includes exam fees, diagnostics, medication, surgery, ambulance and hospitalization, if necessary.

The company is one of the few insurers that offer a discount for keeping your pet healthy. If you don't exceed $300 in claims per pet per year prior to the discount period, you can earn 5% off your monthly premium the first year you qualify. The discount increases to 10% if you also qualify the following year.

Embrace is also the insurer behind USAA Pet Insurance, a members-only insurance product. Military members, veterans and eligible relatives can access all of Embrace’s pet insurance benefits at a 25% discount.

Much like other insurance plans, Embrace isn't without restrictions or limitations. Here are a few to keep in mind if you're thinking about purchasing an Embrace pet insurance plan:

  • Dental illness coverage is capped at $1,000 per year
  • Intervertebral Disk Disease (IVDD), cruciate ligament injuries, patellar luxation and hip dysplasia are excluded for six months
  • There's no coverage for natural supplements, vitamins or food

Note: This benefit is only available to U.S. residents traveling abroad.

Read Embrace Pet Insurance Review >>

See rates on Embrace's Secure Website >>

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

Sample premiums for cats

$17.97

Sample premiums for dogs

$27.93

Discounts

10% employee, 10% multi-pet

Why we chose Spot

We picked Spot as the best pet insurance 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.

Pros
  • Unlimited annual coverage available
  • No upper age limit
  • 24/7 telehealth helpline
  • Pet owners have 270 days (around eight months) to file a claim
Cons
  • Higher-than-average premiums for young pets
  • Charges transaction fees for monthly, quarterly or semi-annual payments

Offering a full (100%) coverage option, Spot readily allows you to maximize your pet’s coverage, meaning you are not responsible for any co-payment. 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 will lead to higher premiums for the policy. And Spot’s prices are already higher than the norm for young pets, although the company has no upper age limit for insuring new animals — which may make it a good choice if your furry companions are elderly.

Read Spot Pet Insurance Review >>

See rates on Spot's Secure Website >>

Plan options Accident and illness

Annual payout limit

$1,000 to $25,000
Reimbursement rates $50, 65%, 70%, 80%, 90%
Annual Deductible $0 to $2,500
Waiting periods 14 days for illnesses, 1 day for accidents, 6 months for orthopedic conditions
Sample premium for cats $27.74
Sample premium for dogs $65.79
DiscountsMulti-pet discount and diminishing deductible

Why we chose Metlife

With MetLife, pet owners with multiple pets don’t have to stress about meeting a separate deductible for each animal. MetLife allows you to enroll up to three pets under a single plan, so coverage for all of them kicks in as soon as you meet the deductible for that year.

Pros
  • Fast accident-only coverage
  • Low and no-deductible plans available
  • 24/7 telehealth service
  • Diminishing deductible
Cons
  • No standalone accident-only plan
  • Terms and conditions vary by underwriter
  • 6-month waiting period for cruciate ligament problems applies in some states

Metlife’s pet insurance plans offer a financial advantage to pet owners who want to insure more than one pet. 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.

MetLife’s coverage terms are also much more flexible than other providers on the market. Pet owners can select a deductible ranging from $0 to $2,500 and an annual limit between $1,000 and $25,000.

In addition to standard coverage for diagnosis, surgery, hospitalization and medications, MetLife pet insurance covers exam fees, physical therapy, take-home prescriptions and alternative therapies at no extra cost. Policyholders can also get reimbursed if they need to board their pet or post a reward in the event the animal is lost or stolen.

MetLife pet insurance policies are available in all 50 states. However, certain terms and benefits may change depending on which underwriter issues policies in your area, Metropolitan General Insurance Company (MetGen) or Independence American Insurance Company (IAIC).

Read Metlife Pet Insurance Review >>

See rates on Metlfie's Secure Website >>

Plan options

Accident and illness, wellness rider

Annual payout limit

$10K, $20K or unlimited

Reimbursement rates

90%

Annual Deductible

$100, $250, $500 or $1K

Waiting periods

14 days for accidents and illnesses

Sample premium for a kitten

$35.62

Sample premium for a puppy

$52.89

Discounts

10% multi-pet

Why we chose Pumpkin

Pumpkin is our pick as the best pet insurance for puppies and kittens because it offers extensive insurance and non-insurance preventive care options tailored to junior animals.

Pros
  • Preventive care packages for the particular needs of puppies and kittens
  • No upper age limit
  • Short (14-day) waiting period for all health conditions, including knee and hip dysplasia
  • Covers exam fees at no extra cost
Cons
  • No customizable reimbursement levels
  • No accident-only option
  • Preventive plan doesn't cover spay/neuter or dental cleanings
  • Most expensive option in our survey

Pumpkin offers competitive pet insurance plans with an option to add preventative care coverage for young cats and dogs. Its puppy preventive care pack includes one annual wellness exam fee, four puppy vaccines and one yearly fecal test. It will also refund the cost of up to four vaccines your puppy may have received prior to being insured under the preventive pack, as well as cover lab tests for parasites.

For dogs and cats of all ages, Pumpkin offers comprehensive accident and illness coverage with some standout benefits: microchip implantation, stem cell therapy and a pet poison control consultation fee. Pet owners are free to call the ASPCA Poison Control Center or the Pet Poison Helpline (and maybe save themselves a trip to the emergency room) without worrying about paying $85-$95 for the phone call.

Read Pumpkin Pet Insurance Review >>

See rates on Pumpkin's Secure Website >>

Annual payout limit

$2.5K, $5K, $7.5K,$10K, $15K, 20K, Unlimited

Reimbursement rates

70%, 80%, 90%

Deductible

$100, $250, $300, $400, $500, $600, $750, $1K

Waiting periods

2 days for accidents, 14 days for illnesses

Sample premium for cats

$17.68

Sample premium for dogs

$28.95

Discounts

5% multi-pet

Why we chose AKC

We picked AKC as the best pet insurance for dogs and cats with pre-existing conditions because it’s the only provider that covers illnesses and injuries sustained before the policy's effective date or during the waiting period.

Pros
  • Accident-only plan option available
  • Direct payments to vets available under certain conditions
  • Offers supplemental accident and illness coverage for breeding pets
Cons
  • Coverage for congenital and hereditary conditions costs extra
  • No dental coverage except tooth extractions due to injury
  • 6-month waiting period for orthopedic conditions coverage

The American Kennel Club’s (AKC) pet insurance policy offers unprecedented coverage for pre-existing conditions. To qualify, you must keep the policy active for 365 days. Any pre-existing issue that was initially excluded will be fully covered once the waiting period elapses and the policy renews.

AKC’s policy covers diagnosis and treatment for eligible accidents and illnesses, including services such as:

  • Labs
  • X-rays
  • Ultrasounds
  • MRI and CT scans
  • Surgery and hospitalization
  • Physical and alternative therapy
  • Medication
  • Chemotherapy
  • Euthanasia

You can also pay extra for preventive care and coverage for end-of-life expenses, veterinary exam fees, behavioral therapy, hereditary and congenital conditions and issues related to breeding.

Pet owners should note some limitations regarding AKC’s coverage. There’s no coverage for dental illnesses, and hereditary and congenital conditions aren’t covered unless you purchase the HereditaryPlus rider. Residents of Florida, California and Washington must enroll their pet before its second birthday to qualify for this add-on.

Read AKC Pet Insurance Review>>

See rates on AKC Pet Insurance's Secure Website >>

Plan options

Accident and illness, wellness rider

Annual payout limit

$5K,$10K or unlimited

Reimbursement rates

70%, 80%, 90% or 100%

Annual Deductible

$100, $250, $500, $750 or $1K

Waiting periods

1 day for accidents, 14 days for illnesses

Sample premium for cats

$12.68

Sample premium for dogs

$31.85

Discounts

5% multi-pet

Why we chose Figo

Most competitors only offer up to 90% reimbursement. Figo stands out as the best pet insurance for reimbursement options because pet owners can choose up to 100% reimbursement without annual payout limits and avoid copayments entirely.

Pros
  • Up to 100% reimbursement with no annual limits
  • No upper age enrollment limit
  • Low deductible options
  • Most affordable premiums
  • 1-day waiting period for accidents
Cons
  • No coverage on hereditary conditions if the pet is enrolled after 2nd birthday
  • Low payout limits in wellness plan
  • Vet exam fees and physical therapy coverage require separate riders

Figo offers pet owners the option to reduce their copayment to 0%, thanks to its 100% reimbursement option. (Generally, the lowest copayment provided by other insurers is 10%.)

Be prepared to pay higher than average premiums for a policy with 0% copay, unlimited payout benefits or both. Figo also enforces strict limits on its coverage for hereditary conditions such as hyperthyroidism, renal disease and intervertebral disc disease (IVDD).

Additionally, benefits such as the exam fee reimbursement and physical therapy are only available as separate riders — other providers include these benefits in their base policy.

Figo’s Pet Cloud app features comprehensive mobile support. With the app, you can contact a licensed veterinarian 24/7, manage your pet’s insurance documents and make payments, among other transactions.

Read Figo Pet Insurance Review >>

See rates on Figo's Secure Website >>

Plan options

Accident and illness, accident-only, wellness rider

Annual payout limit

$2.5K, $5K, $10K or unlimited

Reimbursement rates

70%, 80% or 90%

Annual Deductible

$50, $100, $250, $500 or $1K

Waiting periods

3 days for accidents, 14 days for illnesses

Sample premium for cats

$14.47

Sample premium for dogs

$36.44

Discounts

5% multi-pet

Why we chose Pets Best

Pets Best has a wide range of coverage options and deductibles, and it offers pet insurance for cats and dogs as young as seven weeks. It’s also one of the few pet insurance companies that cover prosthetic devices and wheelchairs.

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

Pets Best pet insurance offers accident and illness plans and sells multiple wellness add-ons to cover your pet’s routine care. There’s a short 3-day waiting period for accidents and the standard 14-day waiting period for illnesses.

Insurers don’t always cover treatments for mobility issues, but Pets Best provides coverage for wheelchairs and prosthetic devices when prescribed by a veterinarian to treat a covered accident or illness.

Additionally, the company offers comprehensive physical therapy coverage as an add-on, encompassing acupuncture, electroacupuncture, chiropractic care, treadmill therapy, laser therapy, therapeutic exercises, ultrasound therapy, gait training and other treatments.

Pets Best’s take-home prescription rider is also noteworthy. The add-on covers not just prescription medications, but over-the-counter drugs, supplements, remedies and treatments as long as they’re prescribed by a veterinarian. That said, there’s no coverage for alternative therapies and holistic treatments that might benefit your pet’s recovery.

Read Pets Best Pet Insurance Review >>

See rates on Pets Best's Secure Website >>

Plan options

Accident and illness, wellness rider

Annual payout limit

$5K, $10K, $20K, $50K or $100K

Reimbursement rates

70%, 80% or 90%

Annual Deductible

$100, $250 or $500

Waiting periods

2 days for accidents, 14 days for illnesses

Sample premium for cats

$12.30

Sample premium for dogs

$27.80

Discounts

5% multi-pet

Why we chose Lemonade

We picked Lemonade as the best pet insurance for speedy claims. The company uses novel, AI-powered processing, which promises to deliver claims very quickly via the Lemonade app. The ability to direct a part of the company’s profit to a charity of your choice may also appeal to many pet owners.

Pros
  • Quick claims processing — in minutes rather than weeks via mobile app
  • Multiple discounts available
  • A portion of payments go to charities
  • Customizable coverage
Cons
  • Only available in 38 states
  • Policies can only be adjusted at renewal
  • Older pets may not be eligible for coverage

Lemonade’s accident and illness policy covers diagnostics, procedures and medications for covered conditions. Vet visit fees, dental illnesses, end-of-life services, acupuncture and chiropractic care are excluded from the base policy (which may translate to lower premiums) but you can add these benefits as riders if they’re available in your state.

Pet owners can further enhance coverage with a preventative care rider that reimburses the cost of annual checkups, vaccines and parasite screening.

Lemonade is available in 38 states, but you can sign up for updates on its website. However, users may find Lemonade’s website hard to navigate. To get a quote, you have to input a lot of information that other insurers don’t require. Also, if you have questions the automated chat can’t answer, talking with a live agent via chat isn’t possible.

Read Lemonade Pet Insurance Review >>

See rates on Lemonade's Secure Website >>

Plan options

Accident and illness, wellness rider

Annual payout limit

$10K

Reimbursement rates

50% or 70% for Whole Pet plan

Annual Deductible

$250

Waiting periods

14 days for accidents and illnesses

Sample premium for cats

$52.47

Sample premium for dogs

$96.29

Sample premium for rabbits

$41.70

Discounts

5% multi-pet

Why we chose Nationwide

We picked Nationwide as the best pet insurance for exotic pets because it offers comprehensive insurance for various unconventional animals. Pet owners can relax knowing up to 90% of their expenses for such animals are covered by a reputable insurer.

Pros
  • No per-incident, annual or lifetime caps
  • Covers alternative therapy for diagnosed conditions
  • Direct payments available under certain conditions
Cons
  • Limited coverage for hip dysplasia
  • 12-month waiting period for knee injuries
  • No coverage for behavioral modification or prescription food

Nationwide is the only pet insurance company of its size 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. Just as with dog and cat insurance, pre-existing conditions are excluded from coverage.

For exotic pets, Nationwide offers three accident and illness policy options and two wellness care packages. Exotic pet owners must call (844-244-3691) to get a quote or sign up. However, cat and dog insurance is easy to get directly on Nationwide’s website.

Read Nationwide Pet Insurance Review >>

See rates on Nationwide's Secure Website >>

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Full Illness & Accident Coverage

  • Get up to 90% back at any vet
  • Comprehensive illness & accident coverage – no levels
  • Optional wellness plan covers routine vet, grooming, & training costs
  • Customizable annual deductible, annual limit, & reimbursement percentage

24/7 Telehealth Helpline

  • 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee*
  • Up to 90% reimbursement on eligible vet bills
  • Multi-pet discount & access to 24/7 vet helpline
  • Visit any U.S. licensed veterinarian or specialist
  • *Subject to terms and conditions. 

No Upper Age Limit on Enrollment

  • Comprehensive coverage at affordable prices
  • No upper age limit on enrollment
  • Choose $5000 annual or unlimited benefits
  • 24/7 veterinary support line for all customers

Coverage Starting at as Little as $10 per Month

  • Coverage starting at as little as $10 per month 
  • Optional preventive care policy available
  • Quick claims payment & easy-to-understand policies
  • Live chat with veterinary experts through mobile app

Coverage for Pets of Any Age and Breed

  • Coverage options for less than $1 a day
  • Reimbursement for up to 100% of vet costs
  • Customizable deductible and reimbursement rates
  • Take your pet to any licensed vet, emergency clinic, or specialist in the US
  • Coverage for pets of any age and breed
  • Family plans with a single deductible for the whole furry family

Pet Insurance Plans by Category

Looking for pet wellness plans or coverage for multiple pets? Look no further. We narrowed down the best plans for your pet's particular needs.

Best Pet Health Insurance by State

Pet insurance rates — as well as the availability of certain plan options — may vary by state. There are also state-mandated pet ownership expenses (such as licensing and microchipping) that your pet insurance policy may help cover.

Check out our list of the best pet insurance companies for your state below:

Pet Insurance Guide

Table of Contents


Compare pet insurance plans

Our pet insurance comparison table can help you choose a plan that fits your pet's needs, whether you want to compare dog insurance plans or explore options for other cherished pets.

We also include companies that stood out in some respects but didn’t quite match the strengths of our top picks. Read our full reviews to learn more: ASPCA Pet Health Insurance, Fetch Pet Insurance, Many Pets Pet Insurance, Wagmo Pet Insurance, Healthy Paws and Trupanion.

Swipe left to view all the factors we considered.

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Compare pet insurance plans

SLIDE
Company
Accident-only plan
Wellness Rider
Exam Fees
Direct Payment to Vets
Telehealth
Alternative Therapy
Behavioral Therapy
Top Partner
Pumpkin
Get Quote
Trupanion
Get Quote
Nationwide
Get Quote
Healthy Paws
Get Quote
MetLife
Get Quote
ManyPets
Get Quote
= included in the base policy
= not covered in the base policy or costs extra to add
Based on publicly available sample policies. Actual terms may vary.

How much is pet insurance?

According to NAPHIA’s State of the Industry Report, the average cost of pet insurance for cats is $29 a month while dog insurance plans cost about $49 a month. To better illustrate this, we compared pet insurance plans for a cat and a dog in Miami, Florida.

Some companies charge significantly more than the averages reported by NAPHIA. You’ll also notice that monthly rates increase to inordinate prices as the pet gets older, no matter the company or the type of pet.

Pet insurance for cats is also much more affordable than dog insurance plans — a trend that's worth keeping in mind if you don't own a pet yet but want to insure them when the time comes.


Pet insurance for dogs

Monthly cost of dog insurance for a Labrador retriever in Miami, Florida:

Company

1-year-old

5-year-old

10-year-old

Figo

$40.51

$54.82

$138.78

Lemonade

$47.90

$64.32

N/A

AKC

$48.49

$69.56

N/A

Pets Best

$54.46

$73.42

$188.14

Healthy Paws

$54.85

$95.56

$130.20

Nationwide

$68.07

$91.17

N/A

Spot

$78.71

$102.13

$238.49

Embrace

$83.50

$108.55

$217.11

Trupanion

$100.43

$179.24

$271.26

Pumpkin

$100.98

$131.04

$306.00

Pet insurance for cats

Monthly cost of cat insurance for a domestic shorthair in Miami, Florida:

Company

1-year-old

5-year-old

10-year-old

Figo

$15.45

$18.15

$39.30

Lemonade

$19.08

$22.51

N/A

Pets Best

$21.00

$24.93

$57.82

AKC

$22.43

$28.33

N/A

Nationwide

$23.05

$34.19

N/A

Embrace

$27.71

$37.83

$63.94

Spot

$29.47

$33.12

$76.06

Trupanion

$30.63

$51.45

$78.03

Healthy Paws

$32.08

$55.33

$75.11

Pumpkin

$49.50

$55.62

$127.73

Sample quotes correspond to an accident and illness policy with 80% reimbursement, $10,000 payout limit and a $250 deductible, except in the case of Trupanion, Figo and Pumpkin. Please note that your quote may be different from the rates above.


Additional out-of-pocket expenses to remember

The cost of pet insurance is not limited to premium payments. Unless you purchase a policy with 100% reimbursement, unlimited payouts and no deductibles, you’ll have to cover some expenses yourself.

  • Exam or office fees: Veterinarians and emergency vet care clinics charge an exam fee that's separate from diagnostic or treatment costs. Most insurers exclude this fee from coverage, which then amounts to a hidden deductible of $30 to $100 for each visit.
  • Deductible: You’ll need to meet the policy's deductible before the insurance company starts reimbursing you. It might take a few vet visits to reach the deductible amount, especially if you set a high deductible in order to lower your premium rate.
  • Copay: Once you file for reimbursement, plans typically pay 70% to 90% of eligible veterinary services. The remaining 30% to 10% comes out of your own wallet.
  • Payout caps: Pet insurance won't pay once you’ve reached the policy’s maximum coverage amount for the year. Some insurers also set individual coverage caps for behavioral modification, dental care and end-of-life expenses.

If you’re on a tight budget, check out our reviews of the best cheap pet insurance. In our sample of providers, the cheapest pet insurance quotes were $15 per month for cats and $40 for dogs.


Factors that determine what your pet insurance costs:

  • Type of policy: Accident and illness policies cost more than other types of pet insurance (wellness plans or accident-only policies).
  • Type of animal: Dog insurance costs twice as much as pet insurance for cats. Bird insurance premiums typically start at less than $21 a month, while horse insurance starts at over $80 a month.
  • Pet’s age: Premiums increase with age and do so sharply for very old animals. In addition, after your dog or cat reaches the age of 10 or 12, your options for insurance providers will significantly diminish.
  • Pet’s breed: Purebreds prone to congenital or hereditary conditions usually cost more to insure than mixed breeds.
  • Pet’s size: Buying pet insurance for larger dogs or cats is more expensive compared to small or toy-sized animals. That said, smaller breeds tend to live longer, which means you’ll pay more over the animal’s lifetime.
  • Where you live: Pet insurance costs more in states where vet care is more expensive. On average, residents of California and New York pay the most.

What is pet insurance?

Pet insurance is an insurance product that covers part of your pet's vet bills if they get sick or injured. It's designed to protect owners from the financial impact of costly, unforeseen issues such as emergency vet care or chronic medical conditions. Routine care expenses like vaccinations, annual exams and parasite prevention aren't covered.


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 such as poisonings, broken bones or bloating. 

Reimburses policyholders for services such as vaccinations, microchipping, checkups, pet dental care and heartworm prevention.

How does pet insurance work?

Pet insurance is different from human health insurance, though it is often marketed as health insurance for pets. Here's what you need to know:

  • No network restrictions. You can take your dog or cat to any licensed vet or specialist nationwide. You must, however, meet the policy's annual deductible before you can file for reimbursement.
  • An annual deductible applies. You can file for reimbursement once your veterinary expenses meet the policy's deductible.
  • Pet owners pay upfront. You must pay the vet bill in full and file for reimbursement at a later date.
  • Most insurers reimburse 70% to 90% of the bill. An eligible claim is covered up to 90% unless you select a policy with 100% reimbursement. Pet owners are responsible for paying the remaining 30% to 20% plus the deductible.
  • Annual payout limits apply. Let's say you selected a $10,000 annual payout limit. This means the insurance company won't reimburse you more than $10,000 a year for your pet's medical expenses. This limit resets upon renewal.
  • Premiums won't increase after you file a claim. However, pet insurance premiums can increase a reported 20% to 30% after the policy renews to match your pet's age and the cost of veterinary care in your zip code.

What does pet insurance cover?

Pet insurance covers the cost of diagnosing and treating a number of accidents and illnesses.

This includes diagnostic tests, hospitalization, surgery, prescription medication and long-term treatment for chronic conditions such as allergies or diabetes (a common risk in overweight pets). Most policies also cover behavioral therapy and physical therapy if it's medically necessary.

As with most insurance policies, there are exclusions to keep in mind. Pet insurance doesn't cover:

  • Routine care. This includes vaccines, dental cleanings, annual checkups and spay/neuter surgery
  • Pre-existing conditions. Insurers may make exceptions for conditions deemed curable provided the pet has been symptom- and treatment-free for 6 to 12 months.
  • Injuries due to negligence. Pet insurance won't pay treatment costs for injuries linked to abuse, organized fighting or guarding.

Check out our pet insurance coverage guide for more information.


Is pet insurance worth it?

Pet insurance can be prohibitively expensive. Healthy Paws, MetGen and Trupanion came under scrutiny for rate increases, and policyholders frequently denounce claim denials and long waits for reimbursement. In this landscape, it's valid to question whether pet insurance is worth paying for.

A pet owner whose dog lived a long and healthy life may regret paying for pet insurance. After all, they likely paid thousands in premiums over the life of an animal that (fortunately) never got sick enough to need the policy. In hindsight, setting money aside in a savings account may have been a better investment.

But what about pets that aren't as lucky?

"[Insurance] can be a lifesaver for pet owners," says Dr. Karen Halligan, host of Collars and Cents and author of 'Doc Halligan's What Every Pet Owner Should Know.' "We now have the ability to do stem cell transplants [which cost] $35,000 or open heart surgery. A lot of things that you can do for humans, we can do for pets, and the big difference is the insurance. There's no medical [insurance] for pets, right? So it's really up to the owner, who unfortunately has to assume financial responsibility."

"If a pet is hit by a car because they aren't neutered and end up with a fractured pelvis or front leg, it's $20,000 dollars," she adds. "The right policy can pay upwards of 70%, 80% or 90% of that bill. It just depends on the policy. It's a real advantage for these unforeseen, kind of catastrophic things that happen."

Having a pet insurance policy offers peace of mind if you want to avoid the difficult decision of choosing between your own financial stability and your pet's health.

Dr. Lindsey Butzer, from Clint Moore Animal Hospital, recalls having to euthanize many dogs because people waited too long to bring them in for treatment. "They're not gonna pay for their dog over their groceries," she explains. Other patients simply couldn't afford the cost of the necessary procedure. "A lot of people make the choice of putting them to sleep if they can't pay for a $10,000 back surgery," she adds.

Pet insurance can be a financial safety net, especially since vet care prices keep trending upward. That said, pet owners should be mindful of the following before buying a policy:

  • Be prepared to pay monthly premiums plus any copays and the yearly deductible
  • Be ready to pay the vet bill upfront and wait for reimbursement
  • Know that premiums will increase yearly
  • Be diligent with your pet's preventive care

How to choose the best pet insurance

Pet owners don’t need to wonder which is the best dog insurance or the best pet insurance for cats. A good insurance policy will cover both pet types equally.

The pet insurance guidelines established by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) are a great resource if you don't know how to shop for pet insurance. According to that document, a reputable carrier should:

  • Allow you to go to the vet of your choice
  • Not interfere with the vet's pricing
  • Have state approval
  • Hire licensed vets to evaluate claims
  • Be transparent about the policy's terms and conditions
  • Disclose how the reimbursement process works
  • Unambiguously state the policy's limits, pricing and optional benefits

Once you've identified the best insurance providers, comparison shop: review the policy’s benefits and compare its cost against its value.

Check out our guide on how to buy pet insurance for more information.

1. Pick between an accident-only or accident and illness coverage

Pet owners can choose their preferred type of coverage: an accident-only policy or an accident and illness plan (with or without a wellness rider).

An accident and illness plan may be worth it if you're enrolling a pet that's still young and healthy. On the other hand, accident-only plans work for older dogs that are too expensive to insure and for budget-conscious pet owners who just want a safety net against serious accidents.

2. Research providers

Many pet insurance carriers share the same insurance underwriter but offer different coverage options and services, such as 24/7 vet helplines, direct payment to vets and behavioral modification.

Look for established pet insurance providers with positive financial ratings from AM Best or Demotech. The company should also have years of experience with pet insurance, ideally. You don't want to get coverage from a relatively unknown company only for it to close its doors unexpectedly.

And remember to ask around. "You've got to compare policies," adds Dr. Halligan. "You've got to ask other pet owners ad nauseam about their policies and what they didn't like because there are a lot of pet insurance companies that aren't worth the expense."

3. Study the policy's coverage

For Dr. Halligan, reading and understanding the policy thoroughly is paramount. If you aren't well-versed in insurance terms, get someone else to look into the policy. Or better yet, go to the source.

She advises pet owners to "just get on the phone with the insurance company and say: 'I need you to go through these points with me.' You're paying for a service so why wouldn't you get them on the phone? And if they don't want to help you, do not choose that pet insurance company. There's 20 others you could go to."

Broadly speaking, every policy covers diagnostics, surgery, medication and treatment. When you look at the fine print, however, you'll find differences in the types of services and benefits each plan covers.

The best insurance policies cover exam fees, alternative therapy, behavioral therapy, and prescription medications. Some may even offer direct payment to vets. We also encourage you to look into the policy's dental care coverage. Ask about periodontal disease, any age limits on congenital dental problems and whether every tooth is covered.

5. Compare waiting periods

Most pet insurance companies make you wait 14 days before you can file a claim. If fast coverage is important to you, look for companies that offer shorter waiting periods for accident coverage.

Orthopedic waiting periods can also be a deciding factor. Lots of companies have a six to 12-month waiting period for joint injuries and hip dysplasia. Consider a pet insurance policy without this restriction, especially if you own a pet breed that's prone to developing these issues early on.

6. Compare pet insurance quotes

You’d be surprised at how much prices can vary between insurance companies. Some insurers may quote double the price of others for similar coverage, so it pays to do some comparison shopping. Additionally, comparing multiple plans at once is fairly easy through a pet insurance comparison site such as Petted Insurance, Pawlicy Advisor or Pet Insurer.


How to save on pet insurance

There’s not much you can do about your zip code, your pet’s breed or age when it comes to premiums but you can tweak coverage levels to fit your budget:

  • Payout caps: Choosing the highest coverage limit increases premiums. To pick the right payout cap, check the average cost of vet treatment in your area for breed-specific illnesses and common injuries.
  • Reimbursement percentage: A low reimbursement percentage means you’ll pay less in premiums. However, this also means you’ll have a higher copayment.
  • Deductibles: The higher the deductible, the lower your policy’s premium will be. If your pet remains healthy, choosing a higher deductible can pay off and save you money, but you’ll pay more out of pocket if anything unexpected happens.

Pet insurance discounts

Pet owners can shave 5 to 10% off their policy's monthly rate if their pet insurance carrier offers any one of these discounts:

  • Annual pay discount: Lower rates if you pay for the policy annually instead of monthly
  • Multipet discount: Discounted rates for each additional pet you enroll with the same provider
  • Bundle discounts: Discounted rate for bundling with homeowners or renters insurance under the same provider
  • Spay/neuter discount: Reduced premium if you spay/neuter your pet upon enrollment
  • Military discounts: Discounts for active and former members of the armed forces

You can also save money on pet insurance by adopting through a shelter. Trupanion offers 30 days of free insurance at participating shelters and vets, and you can continue coverage after the trial ends (terms and conditions apply).

Check out the best places to adopt a pet and ask if they participate in similar programs.

Pet Insurance FAQs

How much is a vet visit?

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A routine veterinary visit for a cat and a dog without insurance may set you back $50 to $300. An emergency visit can cost much more, depending on the type of emergency and the level of care your pet requires.

A vet visit to address a specific issue comes with a higher price tag, as well. According to Healthy Paws’s Cost of Veterinary Care in 2022, skin conditions were the most common insurance claim of the year for dogs. The bill averaged $200 to $2,500. Gastritis was the most common condition in cats, and claims for reimbursement ranged from $1,500 to $1,800.

What is the best pet insurance?

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The best pet insurance for you will depend on a combination of different elements, mainly your budget and your pet's needs. Our roundup of the best pet insurance providers includes reputable companies such as Spot, Pumpkin, AKC, Figo, Embrace, Pets Best, Lemonade and Nationwide.

What is the best pet insurance for dogs?

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The best pet insurance for dogs (much like pet health insurance for cats) covers the veterinary services your pet will need if they get seriously sick or injured. This includes surgeries, hospitalization, diagnostics, treatment and medication. The best insurers also offer exam fee and wellness coverage, plus most cover alternative therapies and behavioral modification at no extra cost.

Get a quote from any of our top picks — Spot, AKC, Lemonade , Embrace, Pets Best, Figo and Pumpkin — to see which of their dog pet insurance plans is the best for your pup.

How much is pet insurance?

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In our price survey, we found pet insurance costs between $40 and $130, depending on your pet's age and the insurance provider.

Pricing your pet insurance premium depends on: 1) your pet's type, sex, and breed; 2) your pet's age; 3) your location; 4) coverage types; 5) deductible and reimbursement level. The more expensive it is where you live, whether it's California or New York City, the more expensive your pet insurance will be.

How does pet insurance know about pre-existing conditions?

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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.

How We Chose Our Top Picks

To identify the best pet insurance companies of 2024, we reviewed 19 pet insurance companies based on over 50 data points. The data points in our methodology are best summarized in the following categories:

  • Basic coverage: Our top picks cover exam fees, 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: We checked whether the provider covered alternative therapies, behavioral modification, telehealth services and a 24/7 vet helpline. 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.
  • Waiting periods: Pet insurance policies typically enforce a 14-day waiting period for accidents and illnesses. Our top picks set waiting periods within this range, with the exception of Nationwide, which enforces an additional waiting period for orthopedic conditions.
  • 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. The policy's terms include an 80% reimbursement rate, a $10,000 payout limit, and a $250 deductible (with some variations if the company doesn't offer those terms). With that data, we identified which insurers offer the best rates, considering whether affordability meant paying extra for certain benefits.
  • 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, such as USAA pet insurance. We also left out insurers that resell pet insurance policies, such as Geico, which offers Embrace or Trupanion.
  • Customizability: Having multiple deductible, payout and reimbursement options means that policyholders can tweak the coverage details to get a premium that's within their budget. Most providers allow this flexibility. The ones that feature a single policy with no customizability typically offset this limitation with high levels of coverage (90% to 100% reimbursement and very high or unlimited payouts).
  • Ease of use: We went through each company's quote process and took note of how user-friendly its platform was. Most pet insurance companies fare pretty well in this regard, featuring well-designed websites and mobile apps. Pet owners only need to provide their zip code and their pet's species, breed and age to get an online quote and purchase a policy.

Summary of Money’s Best Pet Insurance Companies of March 2024

  • Embrace - Best for International Coverage
  • Spot - Best for Unlimited Coverage
  • MetLife - Best for Multiple Pets
  • Pumpkin - Best for Puppies and Kittens
  • AKC - Best for Pre-Existing Conditions
  • Figo - Best for Reimbursement Options
  • Pets Best - Best for Treatment of Mobility Issues
  • Lemonade - Best for Fast Claims Processing
  • Nationwide - Best for Exotic Pets