Your pet is a special family member, and they deserve the best care possible. However, veterinary care can be expensive, especially if your pet has an unforeseen accident or illness, and many pet owners turn to pet insurance to help offset the costs. If you have ever wondered whether pet health insurance could be beneficial, consider our Lytle Veterinary Clinic team’s five questions that can help you choose the best coverage for your pet. 

#1: What are my pet’s health risks?

While any pet can suffer an injury or develop a health issue, certain breeds are predisposed to specific conditions that may not be covered by an insurance plan. Most pet health insurance plans do not cover pre-existing conditions—health-related disorders that have been diagnosed before your pet’s health insurance coverage takes effect, including conditions your pet develops before or during the policy’s waiting period. However, a pre-existing condition doesn’t mean your pet won’t benefit from health insurance because they can still be covered for unrelated injuries and future illnesses. Some curable chronic conditions, such as bladder or urinary tract infections (UTIs), respiratory tract infections, and ear infections may be covered after your pet has been symptom-free for a specific period. Before choosing an insurance plan, determine which pre-existing conditions a company excludes to ensure your pet will be covered. 

#2: Can I afford unexpected veterinary bills?

Accidents and illnesses can happen when you least expect them, and emergency veterinary bills can cause monetary hardship if you aren’t prepared financially. When your pet is sick or injured, you have enough worries, and how you’re going to afford their care shouldn’t be one of them. Consider your financial situation and whether you can comfortably handle unexpected veterinary expenses. Pet insurance provides peace of mind knowing that you won’t have to choose between your pet’s health and your finances.

#3: What does pet health insurance cover?

Understanding pet health insurance coverage can help you make an informed decision for your pet. Pet insurance coverage varies, but most providers offer the following plan types:

  • Accident-only coverage — This plan type covers injuries or conditions considered accidental, such as bite wounds, cuts, broken bones, and swallowed objects but does not cover routine wellness services such as vaccinations or medications. Emergency pet care can be expensive, and this option ensures your plan covers your pet’s care costs in case of an accident. 
  • Illness and accident coverage — This plan type is more comprehensive than accident-only and often covers diagnosis and treatment costs for conditions such as cancer, endocrine disorders, and some orthopedic injuries, as long as the conditions are not pre-existing. 
  • Wellness coverage — Most pet insurance companies offer wellness riders that can be added to accident and illness plans. These riders may cover preventive services such as:
    • Annual wellness exams
    • Vaccinations
    • Routine blood work
    • Flea, tick, and heartworm prevention and testing

#4: How much does pet health insurance cost?

Pet health insurance costs vary by provider. In addition, they are determined by the following factors:

  • Age — Young pets are generally healthier than senior pets who are prone to ailments and have lower monthly rates. 
  • Breed — Some breeds have a genetic predisposition for certain conditions, which can increase the monthly premium cost.
  • Species — A dog typically costs more to insure than a cat.
  • Coverage — The coverage amount you choose affects your monthly premium. Accident-only coverage tends to be the most inexpensive option, and a comprehensive policy that covers veterinary expenses for accidents, illnesses, and routine veterinary visits tends to be more costly.
  • Deductible — When you agree to pay a higher pet insurance deductible, you pay a lower monthly premium, and when you pay a lower deductible, you will pay a higher monthly premium.

#5: How will I be reimbursed for veterinary expenses?

Most pet insurance providers operate on a reimbursement model, meaning you pay for veterinary services out of pocket and submit a claim—online or through an app—to your insurer, who reimburses you. Other pet insurance providers make full or partial payments directly to the veterinarian, which means you don’t need to wait for reimbursement.  

Choosing a pet health insurance provider and plan requires research and careful consideration, and asking the questions we have presented here can help you make an informed decision that best meets your pet’s needs and your budget. Contact our Lytle Veterinary Clinic team if you have additional pet insurance questions, or to schedule your pet’s next wellness exam.