What does pet insurance typically not cover?

Pet insurance generally does not cover pre-existing conditions, which are illnesses or injuries that occurred or showed symptoms before your policy started or during the waiting period. Most plans also exclude routine grooming, cosmetic procedures (like ear cropping or tail docking), breeding costs, and sometimes specific behavioral treatments or alternative therapies.

How much does pet insurance cost per month in 2026?

As of 2026, the average monthly cost for pet insurance can range from $30 to $70 for dogs and $15 to $40 for cats, depending on factors like breed, age, location, and the specifics of the policy chosen (e.g., deductible, reimbursement rate, annual limit). Comprehensive accident and illness plans for young, healthy pets typically fall within these ranges.

Is pet insurance worth it for older pets?

Insuring older pets can be more expensive due to higher premiums and the likelihood of pre-existing conditions being excluded. However, it can still be worth it if your older pet is healthy and you want protection against new illnesses or accidents that could arise. If your pet already has chronic conditions, an accident-only plan might be a more affordable option.

Can I use any veterinarian with pet insurance?

Yes, most pet insurance policies allow you to use any licensed veterinarian, specialist, or emergency clinic in the U.S. and often in Canada. Pet insurance typically operates on a reimbursement model, meaning you pay the vet directly and then submit a claim to your insurer for reimbursement, giving you the freedom to choose your preferred care provider.

What is a pet insurance deductible?

A pet insurance deductible is the amount of money you must pay out-of-pocket for eligible veterinary expenses before your insurance coverage begins to reimburse you. For example, if you have a $500 deductible, you pay the first $500 of covered costs annually or per incident, depending on your policy, before your insurer starts paying their share.

How do pet insurance reimbursement percentages work?

The reimbursement percentage is the portion of the eligible veterinary bill that your pet insurance company will pay after your deductible has been met. Common options are 70%, 80%, or 90%. If you have an 80% reimbursement rate and a $1,000 eligible vet bill after your deductible, the insurer would pay $800, and you would be responsible for the remaining $200.

What is the difference between an accident-only plan and an accident and illness plan?

An accident-only plan covers costs related to unexpected injuries, such as broken bones or toxic ingestions, but does not cover illnesses. An accident and illness plan is more comprehensive, covering both accidents and a wide range of illnesses, including common conditions like infections, allergies, and more serious diseases like cancer or diabetes.

Pet Insurance Guide: Coverage, Costs, & Top Providers | One…