Understanding Pet Insurance 2025: Coverage & Why It Matters 🐶🐱✨

By Dr. Duncan Houston BVSc

Vet bills can be unexpected and expensive—but pet insurance offers peace of mind when your pet gets sick or injured. Still, many pet owners don’t know how it works, what it covers, or whether it’s worth it.

I’m Dr. Duncan Houston, veterinarian and founder of Ask A Vet. In this guide, I’ll explain everything you need to know about pet insurance, including what’s covered, what’s not, and how to choose the right plan.

💡 What Is Pet Insurance?

• A health coverage policy that reimburses you for eligible veterinary expenses
• Most work on a pay-first, claim-later model
• Premiums depend on species, age, breed, location, and coverage level

📋 What Does Pet Insurance Typically Cover?

✅ Accidents

• Broken bones, cuts, foreign body removal, poisonings

✅ Illnesses

• Ear infections, vomiting, diarrhea, allergies, chronic conditions

✅ Surgeries

• Emergency and medically necessary surgeries

✅ Diagnostics

• X-rays, bloodwork, ultrasounds, CT/MRI (depending on plan)

✅ Medications

• Prescriptions for covered conditions

➕ Optional Coverage (Add-Ons)

• Routine care: vaccinations, dental cleanings, wellness exams
• Behavioral training and therapy
• Alternative therapies (acupuncture, rehab, laser)

🚫 What Pet Insurance Usually Doesn’t Cover

• Pre-existing conditions (anything diagnosed before the policy starts)
• Elective or cosmetic procedures (e.g., tail docking, declawing)
• Breeding, pregnancy, or whelping
• Food, supplements, or vitamins (unless prescribed in some cases)

📊 How Much Does It Cost?

• Dogs: $40–$90/month (average)
• Cats: $20–$50/month (average)
• Deductibles: $100–$1000 annually, depending on plan
• Reimbursement: usually 70%, 80%, or 90%

💸 Real Example of Why It Matters

A torn cruciate ligament repair can cost $3,500–$6,000. If you have 80% coverage with a $250 deductible, you’d only pay ~$1,000 out-of-pocket versus the full bill.

📅 When to Get Pet Insurance

• As early as possible—ideally during puppy or kittenhood
• Before any illnesses are diagnosed to avoid pre-existing exclusions

🛠️ How to Choose the Right Plan

• Look for policies that allow customizable deductibles and coverage
• Check reimbursement speed and claims process reviews
• Ask your vet if they’ve worked with a provider before
• Compare at least 3 companies side by side

🔗 Ask A Vet Bonus Tip

We’re building our insurance directory inside the Ask A Vet app with real vet feedback and guidance—coming soon!

🛒 Related Tools & Recommendations

• Ask A Vet – Use our platform to track health records for easier claims
• Explorer Harness – Prevent injury while maintaining daily exercise

📋 Summary Excerpt

Not sure if pet insurance is worth it? A vet breaks down exactly what it covers, what it doesn’t, and how to choose the best policy for your furry family member.

❓ FAQs

• Q: Does pet insurance cover pre-existing conditions?
  A: No. That’s the biggest exclusion across all providers.
• Q: Can I use pet insurance for vaccines and checkups?
  A: Only if your plan includes a wellness add-on or optional routine care package.
• Q: Is pet insurance worth it for indoor cats?
  A: Yes. Even indoor cats can face sudden illness, tooth issues, or trauma.