In 2024, selecting the right pet insurance company involves careful consideration of coverage options, financial stability, customer satisfaction, and plan flexibility. Evaluating these factors ensures that pet owners can find comprehensive protection for their furry companions without unexpected financial burdens.
Here, we explore the best pet insurance companies in 2024, highlighting those that excel in providing reliable coverage and exceptional service to meet the diverse needs of pet owners across the United States.
After evaluating pet insurers nationwide for their coverage, financial stability, customer experience, and plan variety, we’ve identified the top pet insurance companies in the United States. Below are our top picks:
What is Pet Insurance?
Pet insurance provides coverage for veterinary expenses related to a pet’s injuries and illnesses, aiming to alleviate the financial strain of unexpected medical issues for pet owners. Typically, routine care like vaccinations and checkups is not covered under standard policies, although some insurers offer preventive care as an optional add-on.
There are two main categories of pet insurance policies: accident and illness coverage, which includes treatment for injuries and illnesses, and accident-only coverage, which specifically covers injuries resulting from accidents. Wellness plans, available for an additional cost, can cover routine care such as vaccinations, flea and tick prevention, annual exams, and spay/neuter surgery.
How Pet Insurance Works
Pet insurance typically follows a reimbursement model where pet owners pay veterinarians upfront for their pet’s medical treatments and then submit a claim to their insurance provider for reimbursement. Upon approval of the claim, the insurance company reimburses the pet owner for eligible expenses. Documentation such as invoices and medical records may need to accompany the claim for processing.
While most pet insurers operate on this reimbursement basis, some, like Trupanion, collaborate directly with veterinarians, allowing them to pay for covered services directly. This arrangement reduces the immediate financial burden on pet owners, who are only responsible for costs not covered by the policy.
Before receiving reimbursement or coverage, pet owners must meet their policy’s deductible, which varies depending on the plan. Insurance companies typically reimburse a predetermined percentage of costs, typically ranging from 70% to 90%, with pet owners responsible for any remaining expenses. Policies also come with annual limits, which cap the amount of coverage provided within a year. Once this limit is reached, any additional expenses must be paid out of pocket until the policy renews.
The Best Pet Insurance Companies in 2024
In 2024, as pet owners prioritize comprehensive coverage and compassionate service, the search for the ideal insurance provider becomes essential. From ensuring our pets’ health during unexpected medical challenges to offering support through every wag of their tail, the best pet insurance companies of 2024 stand out for their commitment to reliability, compassion, and tailored care.
Join us as we explore these trusted names dedicated to safeguarding the well-being of our furry family members. Here is our top pick for the best pet Insurance companies in 2024.
ASPCA: Comprehensive Pet Insurance Coverage
ASPCA pet insurance offers extensive coverage, including dental illnesses, behavioural issues, alternative treatments, prescription food, and even microchipping. Unlike some competitors, it also covers accident or illness exam fees.
For those seeking more affordable options, there’s an accident-only policy. To enhance coverage, you can add a preventive care plan covering services like dental cleanings, heartworm tests, and vaccinations.
ASPCA provides insurance not only for dogs and cats but also for horses.
- Age Requirements: Pets can enrol at any age, starting from 8 weeks old, with no maximum age limit.
- Plan Options: Accident and illness, accident-only, wellness.
- Waiting Periods: Accident and illness coverage begins after 14 days. Coverage for preventive care plans starts immediately.
Listed below are monthly premiums for accident and illness coverage for two example pets:
Mixed-breed dog
Age 2: $30
Age 8: $68
Domestic shorthair cat
Age 2: $16
Age 8: $30
This variety of coverage options and flexibility makes ASPCA a strong choice for pet owners looking to protect their pets’ health comprehensively.
Figo: Top Choice for Cat Insurance
Figo stands out for offering consistently affordable cat insurance rates, as highlighted by NerdWallet’s analysis of quotes from numerous pet insurers. If you want to minimize vet expenses for your feline companion, Figo’s 100% reimbursement option is worth considering. Opt for this plan, and once you meet your deductible, Figo reimburses you for all vet costs up to your annual limit.
Figo provides an accident and illness plan with varying annual reimbursement maximums, ranging from $5,000 to unlimited. Their coverage is comprehensive, encompassing nonroutine dental care, alternative treatments, and hereditary conditions. Additionally, you can enhance coverage with options like wellness care and coverage for veterinary exam fees.
Beyond insurance, Figo offers a mobile app called Pet Cloud, which serves more than just claims and bill payments. It allows you to organize your pet’s medical records, engage in live chats with veterinarians, and connect with other pet owners.
- Age Requirements: Pets must be at least eight weeks old to qualify for coverage, with no upper age limit.
- Plan Options: Accident and illness, wellness.
- Waiting Periods: One day for accidents, 14 days for illnesses, and six months for canine orthopaedic injuries, which may be waived with a vet exam.
Listed below are monthly premiums for accident and illness coverage for two example pets:
Mixed-breed dog
Age 2: $22
Age 8: $52
Mixed-breed cat
Age 2: $10
Age 8: $19
Figo’s comprehensive coverage options and user-friendly Pet Cloud app make it a preferred choice for cat owners seeking reliable pet insurance.
MetLife: Leading Pet Insurance for Dogs
MetLife emerges as a top choice for dog owners, offering some of the lowest sample rates according to NerdWallet’s analysis across various ages, breeds, and locations. Notably, MetLife stands out for its immediate coverage of orthopaedic issues without an extended waiting period—a feature that sets it apart from competitors.
MetLife provides multiple opportunities to save on your policy based on your location and occupation. Discounts are available for first responders, healthcare workers, veterans, active military personnel, and staff at animal care facilities. Additionally, employees who have MetLife pet insurance as a workplace benefit may qualify for savings.
MetLife’s website is user-friendly, allowing potential customers to review sample policies and coverage terms before making a purchase decision.
- Age Requirements: There are no age restrictions for enrollment.
- Plan Options: Accident and illness, wellness.
- Waiting Periods: Accident and wellness coverage start immediately upon policy initiation. There is a 14-day waiting period for illness coverage.
Listed below are monthly premiums for accident and illness coverage for two example pets:
Mixed-breed dog
Age 2: $42
Age 8: $78
Domestic shorthair cat
Age 2: $23
Age 8: $37
MetLife’s comprehensive coverage options and accessible discounts make it a preferred choice for dog owners seeking reliable and affordable pet insurance.
Embrace: Top Pet Insurance Choice for Savings
Embrace offers numerous opportunities for customers to save on their pet insurance. When insuring multiple pets, you automatically receive a 10% discount. Active military members and veterans enjoy a 5% discount in most states (excluding New York and Tennessee). Embrace will also be introducing a healthy pet discount soon.
Embrace provides flexibility with a wide range of deductibles and annual coverage limits. Their standard accident and illness plan includes comprehensive coverage such as chiropractic care, acupuncture, physiotherapy, and other alternative therapies. The plan also covers exam fees for covered conditions and reimburses for behavioural treatments when prescribed by a veterinarian.
- Age Requirements: Pets can enrol as young as six weeks old. Coverage for accidents and illnesses is available up to age 14 and can be maintained throughout their lives. Pets enrolling for the first time at age 15 or older are eligible only for accident coverage.
- Plan Options: Accident and illness, accident-only, wellness.
- Waiting Periods: Embrace has a 48-hour waiting period for accidents and a 14-day waiting period for illnesses. There’s typically a 180-day waiting period for orthopaedic injuries in dogs, which can be reduced to 14 days with a veterinary exam.
Listed below are monthly premiums for accident and illness coverage for two example pets:
Mixed-breed dog
Age 2: $42
Age 8: $77
Domestic shorthair cat
Age 2: $23
Age 8: $40
Embrace’s commitment to savings and comprehensive coverage options makes it a preferred choice for pet owners seeking reliable and flexible pet insurance.
Spot: Top Choice for Clear Waiting Periods
Spot offers straightforward pet insurance plans that cover a wide range of treatments, including alternative therapies, behavioural therapies, dental illnesses, microchip implantation, and prescription diets for covered conditions.
The company provides flexibility with various annual coverage limits to suit your needs, including an unlimited option. They also offer a 10% discount for insuring multiple pets.
- Age Requirements: Pets must be at least eight weeks old to enrol, with no upper age limit.
- Plan Options: Accident and illness, accident-only, wellness.
- Waiting Periods: Spot maintains a consistent 14-day waiting period for all conditions, including accidents, illnesses, and cruciate ligament issues.
Listed below are monthly premiums for accident and illness coverage for two example pets:
Mixed-breed dog
Age 2: $32
Age 8: $71
Domestic shorthair cat
Age 2: $17
Age 8: $31
Spot’s commitment to clear and comprehensive coverage, along with straightforward waiting periods, makes it a preferred choice for pet owners seeking reliable and customizable pet insurance.
Understanding pet insurance ensures you’re prepared for unexpected medical expenses that may arise for your furry companion. Typically, policies cover necessary treatments for injuries caused by accidents, offering peace of mind amid unforeseen health challenges. While routine care like vaccinations and dental cleanings isn’t usually covered, some insurers offer optional wellness plans that include preventive veterinary care such as spay/neuter surgeries and annual check-ups.
What Does Pet Insurance Cover?
Pet insurance coverage varies by policy and insurer but generally falls into a few key categories:
- Accident and Illness Coverage: This comprehensive option typically covers injuries from accidents (e.g., car collisions) and illnesses like cancer or diabetes. Chronic conditions developed after policy enrollment are also covered.
- Accident-Only Coverage: Limited to injuries resulting from accidents, this policy doesn’t cover illnesses or conditions that may develop over time.
- Wellness Coverage: Optional and at an additional cost, this plan covers routine care such as vaccinations, flea and tick prevention, and regular check-ups.
- Pet insurance policies typically exclude preexisting conditions and may have limitations based on breed-specific or age-related conditions.
What Pet Insurance Cover Does Not?
Common exclusions from pet insurance policies include:
- Preexisting Conditions: Health issues present before policy enrollment aren’t covered.
- Preventive Care: Routine care, like vaccinations and annual exams, is generally not covered.
- Hereditary and Congenital Conditions: Some policies exclude conditions pets are born with or are prone to by breed.
- Cosmetic Procedures: Grooming services and elective procedures like tail docking are typically not covered.
- Behavioural Issues: Treatment for behavioural problems like anxiety may not be covered unless specified as an add-on.
- Diet and Supplements: Unless prescribed to treat a covered illness, specialized diets and supplements aren’t covered.
How to Choose the Right Pet Insurance Company
Selecting the best pet insurance involves considering several factors:
- Policy Type: Decide between accident and illness, accident-only, or wellness plans based on your pet’s needs.
- Coverage Details: Review what conditions, treatments, and diagnostic tests are covered, along with any age-specific restrictions.
- Deductibles: Choose between annual deductibles (fixed amount per year) or per-condition deductibles (specific to each condition).
- Reimbursement Rate: Determine the percentage of costs (typically 60% to 100%) the insurer will reimburse.
- Coverage Limits: Check for annual or lifetime limits on coverage amounts.
- Customization Options: Some insurers allow adjusting deductibles, reimbursement rates, or coverage limits to fit your budget and pet’s needs.
- Discounts: Look for multi-pet, military, or employee discounts offered by insurers.
- Customer Service: Evaluate support options and accessibility, such as email, phone, and online chat services.
By understanding these factors and tailoring your choice to your pet’s specific needs, you can find the right pet insurance policy to safeguard their health and well-being.