Imagine this scenario: You get a call letting you know that your beloved family pet has swallowed a rubber band and now needs emergency surgery—to the tune of $2,000. Can you afford to pay out of pocket? Is there room on your credit card to foot the bill?
For many pet owners, a nightmare situation like this is a very real concern. As responsible pet guardians, we want to ensure that our pets receive the best possible healthcare if and when they need it. Pet insurance can help, but is it worth the cost? Like any insurance product, pet insurance has its pros and cons.
If you are contemplating insurance for your furry, feathered, or cold-blooded friend, here are some things to consider.
The Benefits of Pet Insurance
Financial Protection. One of the most significant advantages of pet insurance is financial protection. Unexpected veterinary bills can be exorbitant—especially in emergency situations or when dealing with chronic illnesses. Pet insurance can help offset these costs and provide the peace of mind that you’ll be able to afford any necessary care for your pet without racking up huge debts in the process.
Comprehensive Coverage. Pet insurance typically covers a range of medical expenses, including accidents, illnesses, surgeries, hospitalization, and medications. Some policies even extend to routine care, vaccinations, and dental treatments. Opting for comprehensive coverage ensures that your pet can receive the best care available without worrying about the cost.
Flexibility in Providers. Unlike human health insurance, pet insurance usually allows you to visit any licensed veterinarian. This means you can choose the best possible (and most convenient) care for your pet without being restricted to a specific network of providers.
Lifetime Coverage. While some policies have age limitations, many pet insurance plans offer lifetime coverage, meaning your pet can be insured regardless of age. This feature is particularly valuable for owners of breeds predisposed to certain hereditary conditions.
Considerations Before Getting Pet Insurance
Cost of Premiums. Pet insurance premiums vary based on factors such as your pet’s age, breed, location, and the coverage level you want. When choosing a plan, consider your budget and weigh the potential benefits against the monthly cost. For example, in the United States (as of July 2023) the average cost of pet insurance for an adult dog is $23 to $48 per month. Cat insurance will cost about $14 to $25 per month for a single adult cat. If you have multiple pets, those monthly premiums will add up (although most insurance companies offer a 10-20% multi-pet discount).
Pre-existing Conditions. Most pet insurance policies do not cover pre-existing conditions, meaning any health issues your pet has before the policy’s inception will not be covered. It’s essential to review policy terms thoroughly to understand what conditions are excluded.
Deductibles. Policies often come with deductibles of varying levels. A higher deductible can lower monthly premiums but will require more out-of-pocket expenses before insurance coverage kicks in.
Reimbursement Percentages. The reimbursement percentage is the amount of covered costs you’ll get back after you meet your deductible. With most insurers, you have a choice of 70%, 80%, or 90% reimbursement. The lower the percentage you choose, the lower your monthly premium will be. If you go with a higher amount, you’ll get more cash back on your eligible claims. This, of course, means you will need to pay the total bill to get reimbursed. There are a few pet insurance companies that will pay the vet directly (like Trupanion, Healthy Paws, and Pets Best), but you will need to check with your veterinary clinic in advance to be sure they are equipped to accept payments directly from that insurer.
Age of Your Pet. The age of your pet at the time of enrollment can impact your coverage options and available premiums. With most insurers, older pets have fewer choices or may face higher costs due to potential age-related health concerns.
So, is pet insurance worth it? Honestly, it depends. The value rests largely on your pet’s individual needs, your financial situation, and your willingness to mitigate potential risks. For some, pet insurance provides invaluable peace of mind. Others may find it more practical to set aside money for a dedicated pet emergency fund.
Before you decide, take the time to research various pet insurance policies and compare the coverage options. Assess your pet’s health and potential risks. To that end, it may be a good idea to consult with your veterinarian and gain insights into your pet’s breed-specific health concerns. By carefully evaluating the benefits and considerations, you can make an informed choice that suits both your pet’s well-being and your financial circumstances.