Pet insurance is a health plan for your pet that helps cover veterinary expenses. Much like human health insurance, it reimburses you for a portion of your vet bills when your pet gets sick or injured. Some policies even cover routine care like vaccinations and dental cleanings.

Unlike human health insurance, pet insurance usually works on a reimbursement model. You pay the vet bill upfront and submit a claim to your insurer for reimbursement.

Why Pet Insurance Is Worth Considering

Here’s why more Americans are buying pet insurance than ever before:

• Financial Protection: Emergency surgery or long-term treatments can cost thousands. Insurance softens the financial blow.

• Better Care Decisions: With coverage in place, you’re less likely to delay or decline necessary treatment due to cost.

• Peace of Mind: Knowing you’re prepared for the unexpected gives you confidence as a pet parent.

How Does Pet Insurance Work?

1. Choose a Plan: You select a provider, pick your coverage type, and customize your deductible, reimbursement rate, and annual coverage limit.

2. Pay Your Vet Bill: When your pet needs care, you pay out of pocket first.

3. Submit a Claim: Upload your vet invoice and complete a short claims form.

4. Receive Reimbursement: Once approved, your insurer reimburses you based on your chosen percentage (typically 70%–90%).

What Does Pet Insurance Typically Cover?

Most pet insurance plans cover:

• Accidents: Broken bones, swallowed objects, lacerations

• Illnesses: Cancer, diabetes, infections, allergies

• Hereditary Conditions: Hip dysplasia, heart issues

• Emergency Care & Hospitalization

• Diagnostics: X-rays, MRIs, blood tests

• Medications

• Surgery

Optional add-ons or “wellness plans” may include:

• Vaccinations

• Flea/Tick Prevention

• Dental Cleanings

• Annual Exams

• Spay/Neuter Procedures

What Pet Insurance Doesn’t Cover

Every policy has exclusions. These commonly include:

• Pre-existing conditions

• Cosmetic procedures (e.g., ear cropping)

• Breeding or pregnancy-related care

• Preventive care (unless added as a wellness rider)

Key Terms to Know

• Premium: The amount you pay monthly or annually for coverage.

• Deductible: The amount you pay out of pocket before your coverage kicks in.

• Reimbursement Rate: The percentage of the vet bill your insurer repays after the deductible.

• Annual Limit: The maximum amount your policy will pay in a given year.

How Much Does Pet Insurance Cost?

Costs vary based on:

• Pet type (dogs cost more than cats)

• Breed

• Age

• Location

• Coverage level

On average, monthly premiums in the U.S. are:

• Dogs: $45–$70/month

• Cats: $25–$40/month

Adding a wellness plan increases the cost but provides more complete care.

How to Choose the Best Pet Insurance

Here’s what to consider:

1. Coverage Flexibility: Can you customize the deductible, reimbursement rate, and annual limit?

2. Claim Process: Is it fast and easy?

3. Reputation: What do customer reviews say?

4. Waiting Periods: How long until coverage starts?

5. Pre-Existing Conditions Policy: Is there flexibility for curable conditions?

6. Cost vs. Coverage: Are you getting good value?

Top 10 Pet Insurance Companies in the U.S. (2025)

Here are the leading pet insurance providers to consider this year:

1. Healthy Paws

• Best for: Unlimited lifetime coverage

• Pros: No annual or lifetime caps, quick claims processing

• Cons: No wellness or routine care option

2. Embrace Pet Insurance

• Best for: Customizable coverage

• Pros: Covers alternative therapies; wellness add-on available

• Cons: Slightly longer claim processing

3. Trupanion

• Best for: Direct vet payments

• Pros: Pays vets directly (no reimbursement delay), 90% coverage standard

• Cons: Higher premiums, limited customizability

4. Figo

• Best for: Digital tools and mobile access

• Pros: 100% reimbursement option, excellent mobile app

• Cons: Routine care not included

5. ASPCA Pet Health Insurance

• Best for: Affordable wellness add-ons

• Pros: Includes behavioral therapy; wellness plans available

• Cons: Annual coverage caps may be limiting

6. Nationwide

• Best for: Exotic pet coverage

• Pros: Only major insurer covering birds, rabbits, reptiles

• Cons: Lower annual caps

7. Spot Pet Insurance

• Best for: Custom plans and high reimbursement

• Pros: 70%–100% reimbursement choices, wellness options

• Cons: May have longer waiting periods

8. Lemonade Pet Insurance

• Best for: Tech-savvy users and fast claims

• Pros: Fast AI-powered claims, charitable donations

• Cons: Only available in select states

9. Pumpkin

• Best for: Puppies and kittens

• Pros: No upper age limits, preventative care for young pets

• Cons: Limited to dogs and cats only

10. Fetch by The Dodo

• Best for: Holistic and alternative therapy coverage

• Pros: Includes acupuncture, chiropractic, therapy sessions

• Cons: No wellness plan

FAQs About Pet Insurance

Q: Is pet insurance worth it for older pets?

Yes, but premiums may be higher and coverage could be limited. It’s still helpful for managing chronic conditions or emergencies.

Q: Can I get pet insurance for multiple pets?

Most providers offer multi-pet discounts if you enroll more than one animal.

Q: What happens if I move to another state?

Most national providers will continue your coverage, but always notify them of an address change.

Q: Can I use any veterinarian?

Typically yes, as long as they are licensed in the U.S. However, confirm with your insurer whether they require in-network providers.

Investing in pet insurance means you’re planning ahead—not just for medical emergencies, but for your pet’s overall well-being. Whether you’re a new pet parent or looking to switch providers, understanding how pet insurance works and choosing a reputable provider can make a big difference.

From customizable plans to providers offering holistic care, there’s something out there for every budget and pet need. Don’t wait for an emergency—start exploring your options today