Best Pet Insurance for Dogs & Cats

Pet insurance reimburses pet parents for the cost of covered vet bills. To use your policy, take your pet to the vet for treatment, and pay your bill. Then submit your claim online or in the Spot app. You will receive your reimbursement after your claim is processed – most claims are processed in under 2 business days.

There are three primary types of pet insurance coverage:

1. Accident-Only Coverage: Accident-only plans offer basic coverage for veterinary expenses related to the treatment of unexpected accidents like injuries from falls, fights, or car accidents. The most affordable plan option, it typically includes vet exam fees, diagnostics like X-rays and MRIs, surgery, hospitalization, medications, and some alternative therapies. Learn more about accident-only coverage.

2. Accident and Illness Coverage: This more comprehensive plan includes everything covered under accident-only plans, plus veterinary expenses related to illnesses. This can encompass a wide range of health issues such as infections, hereditary conditions, cancer, diabetes, and even behavioral problems. Learn more about accident and illness coverage.
3. Wellness/Preventive Care Coverage: Preventive care coverage cannot be purchased alone; it's an add-on to a base plan (either accident-only or accident and illness). It helps cover routine and preventive care services such as vaccinations, annual check-ups, dental cleanings, and flea/heartworm prevention.

Choosing the right type of pet insurance depends on your pet's age, breed, lifestyle, and your budget. Accident-only plans are usually recommended for young, healthy pets or those on a tight budget. Accident and Illness plans offer more comprehensive protection, especially as pets age and become more prone to health problems. Wellness coverage is a valuable addition for pet parents who may want help managing the costs of routine care, and new pet parents interested in coverage for spay or neuter procedures.

Pet insurance plans primarily cover unexpected accidents and illnesses, helping provide financial assistance for veterinary treatments, medications, surgeries, and hospitalization for eligible conditions. This can be a helpful lifeline for pet parents when faced with unexpected medical expenses due to injuries, infections, chronic diseases, or even emergency care.

Depending on the specific plan options, coverage can also extend to preventive care services such as vaccinations, annual checkups, dental cleanings, and flea/heartworm prevention. This can help pet parents budget for routine care and promote their pet's overall health and well-being.

However, it's important to note that pet insurance typically doesn't cover everything. Common exclusions include expenses relating to breeding, boarding, grooming, and pre-existing conditions. Additionally, some policies might have specific waiting periods before coverage kicks in for certain illnesses or procedures.

Yes, pet insurance is generally worth it for most pet parents. The primary reason is its ability to help manage the often unpredictable and potentially high veterinary costs associated with unexpected accidents or illnesses. These unexpected events can cause significant financial strain, and pet insurance can help alleviate some of that burden.

Beyond the financial aspect, pet insurance can also help provide pet parents with invaluable peace of mind. Knowing that they have a safety net in place helps allow them to focus on what truly matters – their pet's health and well-being – instead of worrying about the cost of care. This can lead to better decision-making and potentially even life-saving treatments for their furry companions.

While the monthly premiums may seem like an added expense, the potential help provided in the long run, especially in the face of a major illness or injury, can far outweigh the cost of the insurance. In essence, pet insurance is a tool that can benefit your pet's health and your financial security.

Generally, pet insurance does not cover pre-existing conditions. A pre-existing condition is any illness or injury your pet experienced before your coverage began including during the 14-day waiting period after enrollment. This means any treatment or medication related to that condition will not be reimbursed by your insurance.

However, there are a few exceptions. Spot can offer coverage for curable and cured pre-existing conditions if your pet has been symptom-free and treatment-free for a period of 180 days. This does not apply to knee and ligament conditions. Additionally, Spot’s accident and illness plan can help cover eligible hereditary and congenital conditions, which are genetic or present at birth, even if they manifest later in life.

It's crucial to carefully read your pet insurance policy before enrolling to understand which conditions or injuries can be covered under your plan. If your pet has a pre-existing condition, it's still wise to consider insurance as it can help cover future, unrelated illnesses and injuries. If you have any questions about your coverage, please reach out to our customer service team at 800-905-1595.