Pet insurance gives owners peace of mind by helping cover unexpected veterinary bills, emergency treatments, and long-term health conditions. But choosing the right policy can feel overwhelming—especially when coverage types, exclusions, waiting periods, and reimbursement rules vary so widely between companies.
Asking the right questions before buying pet insurance ensures you choose a plan that protects your pet and your wallet. Here’s exactly what to ask and why it matters.
1. What Types of Coverage Does This Policy Include?
Pet insurance policies generally fall into three categories:
- Accident-only
- Accident and illness
- Comprehensive (accident, illness, prescriptions, and wellness add-ons)
Ask:
- What conditions and treatments are included?
- Does the plan cover chronic or hereditary conditions?
- Is wellness care an optional add-on or excluded entirely?
Understanding coverage types helps align your pet’s needs with the right policy.
2. Are Pre-Existing Conditions Covered?
Most pet insurers exclude pre-existing conditions, but definitions differ.
Ask:
- What qualifies as a pre-existing condition?
- Are cured or temporary conditions still excluded?
- Does coverage restart after a condition has been symptom-free for a certain period?
This question helps prevent denied claims later.
3. What Are the Waiting Periods?
Waiting periods apply before coverage becomes active.
Ask:
- What is the waiting period for accidents?
- What is the waiting period for illnesses?
- Are orthopedic conditions subject to longer waiting periods?
- Is there a way to waive orthopedic waiting periods with a vet exam?
Waiting periods vary widely—some insurers impose up to 6–12 months for joint or ligament issues.
4. What Are the Annual, Per-Incident, or Lifetime Limits?
Coverage limits determine how much the insurer will pay.
Ask:
- What is the annual payout limit?
- Are there per-condition or lifetime caps?
- Is unlimited coverage available?
Higher limits are especially important for large breeds or pets prone to hereditary conditions.
5. What Is the Reimbursement Percentage?
Pet insurance typically reimburses a percentage of your vet bill.
Ask:
- What reimbursement options do you offer (70%, 80%, 90%)?
- Does reimbursement apply after the deductible?
- Are exam fees covered?
A higher reimbursement percentage results in lower out-of-pocket costs during major incidents.
6. What Deductible Options Are Available?
Deductibles can be annual or per-incident.
Ask:
- Is the deductible annual or per-condition?
- What deductible amounts are available?
- How does changing the deductible affect my monthly premium?
Annual deductibles are often easier for budgeting.
7. Are Hereditary and Congenital Conditions Covered?
This is especially important for purebred pets.
Ask:
- Are hereditary issues like hip dysplasia, heart disease, or eye disorders covered?
- Are breed-specific exclusions applied?
- Is genetic testing required?
Not all companies offer full hereditary coverage, making this a crucial question.
8. Are Behavioral Issues Covered?
Some insurers partially or completely exclude behavioral conditions.
Ask:
- Does the policy cover anxiety, aggression, or compulsive disorders?
- Are medications or training programs included?
- Are specialist visits covered?
Behavioral care can be costly, so coverage varies significantly.
9. Are Prescription Medications Covered?
Medications can be a major ongoing expense.
Ask:
- Are prescriptions included in the base plan?
- Are chronic medications for long-term conditions covered?
- Are supplements or therapeutic diets included or excluded?
Some insurers require wellness add-ons to cover certain items.
10. How Does the Claims Process Work?
Efficient claims processing makes a big difference.
Ask:
- How do I file a claim?
- How quickly are claims reimbursed?
- Do you offer direct pay to vets or reimbursement only?
- Is there a mobile app for fast submissions?
Smooth claims handling saves time and reduces financial stress.
11. How Much Will My Premium Increase Over Time?
Pet insurance premiums almost always rise annually.
Ask:
- How often do premiums increase?
- Are increases based on age, location, or claim history?
- Do rates significantly rise as pets get older?
Understanding long-term costs helps avoid surprise increases later.
12. Are Wellness or Preventive Care Options Available?
Wellness add-ons may cover:
- Vaccines
- Dental cleanings
- Flea and tick prevention
- Annual exams
- Spay/neuter procedures
Ask:
- What preventive services are included?
- Is wellness a separate add-on or part of the plan?
- Does preventive care affect the deductible?
Wellness coverage is optional—not always necessary, depending on your budget.
13. Are Alternative Therapies Covered?
Some pets benefit from acupuncture, chiropractic care, or physical therapy.
Ask:
- Are holistic or alternative treatments covered?
- Is physical rehab included after surgery or injury?
- Are these treatments limited or fully covered?
Alternative care can greatly improve long-term health for aging pets.
14. Are Dental Treatments Covered?
Dental injuries may be covered, but disease may not.
Ask:
- Does the policy cover dental accidents?
- Are dental illnesses included?
- Are periodontal treatments covered or excluded?
Dental coverage varies widely among insurers.
15. Are There Any Breed or Age Restrictions?
Some insurers limit coverage based on age or breed risk.
Ask:
- Is there an age limit for enrollment?
- Do certain breeds have limited or excluded coverage?
- Will premiums increase sharply for certain breeds?
Knowing this ensures your pet can stay covered long-term.
Final Thoughts
Pet insurance is one of the best financial protections you can provide for your pet—but only if you choose a policy that fits their health needs and your budget. Asking the right questions helps you compare plans, understand exclusions, anticipate long-term costs, and avoid surprise expenses.
Smart pet owners don’t just buy pet insurance—they ask the right questions first.