6 Top Pet Insurance Companies

How to choose a pet insurance provider

Pet insurance helps with unexpected vet bills, but plans differ a lot in what they exclude and how they reimburse you. Read a sample policy before you enroll, not just the price page.

• Type of plan: accident-only plans are cheaper; accident-and-illness plans cover conditions such as infections and cancer. Routine care is usually a separate add-on.
• Pre-existing conditions: conditions noticed before cover starts, or during the waiting period, are commonly excluded. Some providers treat a condition as cured after a symptom-free period.
• Waiting periods: cover for illness and some orthopedic problems may start weeks or months after you enroll.
• How you are paid: most plans reimburse you after you pay the vet. Check the deductible, the reimbursement percentage and any annual limit.
• Future prices: premiums tend to rise as pets get older. Ask how pricing changes with age.

Frequent complaints and how to reduce them

The most common disputes involve claims refused as pre-existing, slow reimbursement and premium increases at renewal. Enroll while your pet is young and healthy, get a vet check soon after starting, and keep copies of medical records. On CandorRated you can check who runs a provider's website, how long the domain has existed, the contact details found and what other pet owners report.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use any vet?

Many reimbursement plans allow any licensed vet in the country of cover, but confirm this with the provider.

Is a wellness plan the same as insurance?

No. Wellness plans spread the cost of routine care such as vaccines. They usually do not help with accidents or illness.

Can I switch providers later?

You can, but a new insurer may treat existing conditions as pre-existing.