Over half of all UK households have at least one pet (57% as of 2023). And no wonder – pets are important for so many reasons, providing emotional, physical, and social benefits.<

They offer companionship, reducing feelings of loneliness and depression. Research has proven that interacting with pets can lower stress, anxiety, and blood pressure, promoting better mental and physical health.

Most of us regard pets as part of our family. That is why pet insurance is so important for protecting your dog’s and cat’s health – and your pocket – in the event of accident or illness. With pet insurance, typically you’ll find:

  • Peace of mind that your pet will get the high-quality treatment they need in the event of illness or accident
  • Different levels of cover to suit your budget
  • Monthly or annual payment options
  • You simply complete one form and can compare pet insurance quotes online.
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A guide to pet insurance

We love our pets and want to know that they’ll get the best possible treatment in the event of an unexpected event, such as being involved in an accident or becoming ill.

With veterinary costs rocketing – according to research, the average cost for a Dog X Ray is £711.58, and for a cat is £594.07 – paying emergency vets’ bills or for chronic conditions can be a real financial strain. That is where pet insurance comes in – it’s a form of health insurance plan for your pet.

What is pet insurance?

Pet insurance is a policy designed to cover veterinary costs for pets, including dogs, cats and – with some specialised policies – other animals such as rabbits, ferrets, hamsters and rats. It helps pet owners manage expenses related to accidents and illnesses, giving your four-legged friend access to the latest veterinary treatments.

Dog and cat insurance can offer different levels of cover, so you can choose the pet insurance that most suits your budget and needs.

What does pet insurance cover?

Policies typically cover a range of treatments, from emergency surgeries to hospitalisations. Cover typically varies by policy but generally includes:

  • Veterinary bills for accidents and illnesses
  • Emergency treatments, surgeries, and hospitalisation
  • Medications
  • Diagnostic tests, such as X-rays and blood tests
  • Dental care (if it is due to an accident)

Also, some – but not all – pet insurance plans will:

  • Include cover for chronic conditions and hereditary diseases
  • Pay for advertising and reward costs if your pet goes missing
  • Pay for the costs of looking after your pet if you are hospitalised
  • Cover the costs if you cancel your holiday due to your pet needing emergency surgery
  • Include third party dog liability (see below)

What does third-party liability pet insurance cover?

Third-party dog insurance is an important component of many pet insurance policies, particularly for dog owners. This type of cover – which is not standard in all policies – is crucial because it protects pet owners from potentially significant legal costs and damages claims.

Third-party liability insurance typically covers:

  • Injury to another person: If your pet injures someone, whether it’s a bite or causing someone to fall, the insurance can help cover medical costs, legal fees, and any compensation awarded to the injured party.
  • Property damage: If your pet damages someone else’s property, such as breaking a valuable item or causing an accident that leads to property damage, this insurance can cover the costs of repairs or compensation.

It is important to note that exclusions typically apply, such as dogs listed under the Dangerous Dogs Act.

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What are the different types of pet insurance?

There are several different options for pet insurance policies, such as:

  • Accident-Only Pet Insurance – Accident-Only policies cover injuries resulting from accidents involving your pet. This is the most basic form of pet insurance and typically one of the most affordable, as it provides the least cover. You select a cover limit, and you can make claims up to that limit for accidents only. Claims for illnesses are not covered under this policy.
  • Lifetime Pet Insurance – Lifetime policies provide cover for your pet throughout their entire life if you renew the policy annually. You select a cover limit, and you can make claims up to that limit each year. With each renewal, your limit resets, allowing you to continue claiming for both new and existing conditions that have already been covered.
  • Time-Limited Pet Insurance – Time-Limited pet insurance covers your furry friend for accidents and illnesses starting from when symptoms first appear. Cover lasts until you reach the policy cover limit or 12 months have passed, whichever comes first. After this period or limit is reached, you will no longer be covered for vet fees related to that specific accident or illness.
  • Maximum Benefit Pet Insurance – Maximum Benefit cover allows you to claim for the same condition multiple times up to your chosen policy limit. Once you reach the limit for one condition, you are still covered for any other conditions your pet may develop during the policy term.

Did you know?

Some pet insurance policies provide benefits like dental care (excepting routine dental treatment), behavioural therapy, and support services such as veterinary helplines. By investing in pet insurance, owners can ensure their pets receive high-quality care while mitigating the financial burden of veterinary expenses.

What is typically not covered by pet insurance?

It is essential that you understand what your pet insurance cover entails. Exclusions can vary by insurer but often include:

  • Pre-existing conditions that occur before the start of the policy.
  • Routine check-ups, vaccinations, and preventive treatments unless specifically covered under a wellness option.
  • Pregnancy and birth-related issues.
  • Third-party liability insurance – some breeds of dogs may be excluded, as well as intentional acts.
  • Geographical limits – cover is usually limited to incidents within the UK, although some policies might offer extended cover for short trips abroad.

What else do I need to know when choosing pet insurance?
It is important you understand what your chosen pet insurance policy covers as well as any policy limits. For example, on lifetime pet insurance policies, some policy cover limits will be per-condition while others will have annual limits.
What is the difference between per-condition lifetime pet insurance limits and annual pet insurance lifetime limits?

  • Pet insurance: Per-condition annual limit

This type of policy sets a specific financial limit for each medical condition or illness your pet may encounter. You can claim up to the limit for a particular condition. Once the limit is reached for that condition, no further claims can be made for it.

  • Pet insurance: Annual limit

This type of policy sets a total financial limit for all medical conditions and treatments combined within a policy year. You can make multiple claims for different conditions up to the total annual limit. Once the annual limit is reached, no further claims can be made until the policy renews.

  • Combined per-condition and annual limit cover

To add to the complexity, some insurers have begun combining per-condition and annual limit policies to create more affordable cover.

How much will pet insurance cost?

The cost of your cat or dog insurance will depend on several factors, including but not limited to:

  • The type of cover you choose (either accident-only or the more comprehensive lifetime cover).
  • Your pet’s breed (pedigree cats and dogs may have an increased risk of suffering from illnesses associated to their breed, for example).
  • Your pet’s age.
  • Your pet’s species.
  • Your pet’s medical history – some providers will exclude pre-existing conditions. Those that do may charge a higher premium.
  • The amount of cover you choose.
  • Where you live.
  • The excess amount (the excess is the first part of any successful claim you must pay).
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What is a pet insurance co-payment?

A co-payment is the portion of a successful claim that you are required to pay out of your own pocket, with the insurer covering the remaining amount. This co-payment is typically expressed as a percentage of the total vet bill. The main purpose of a co-payment is to keep the cost of insurance premiums more affordable by sharing some of the claim expenses between the insurer and the pet owner.

For example, if a policy includes a 20% co-payment, and the vet bill is £1000, you will pay £200, and the insurance company would pay the remaining £800. Co-payments are common in policies for older pets, as they help manage the risk and costs associated with insuring senior animals who are more likely to require veterinary care.

The co-payment is payable in addition to the excess, which is also the first part of a successful claim that you are liable for.
Not all insurers will charge a co-payment – but most do as pets get older – so if this is important to you, make sure you shop around for pet insurance.

Why compare pet insurance?

As you can see so far, there are a lot of pet insurance options to choose from, with different insurers sometimes offering different policy features and benefits. By shopping around and comparing pet insurance, you can see which policy most suits you and your budget.

How to compare pet insurance quotes online easily

By using our pet insurance comparison service, you can access several policies from pet insurance companies, easily and quickly from just one form! Doing this gives you a good overview of the type of cover you can get, as well as the cost.

What should I look for when comparing pet insurance policies?

When comparing pet insurance quotes, consider the following factors to find the most suitable fit for your needs:

  • What is included and excluded? Look for cover for conditions that your pet is predisposed to due to breed or age.
  • Compare premiums, but also consider the excess and co-payments. Cheaper policies might not provide adequate cover.
  • Check if there are annual or lifetime limits on claims, which could affect how much the insurer will cover over the life of your pet.
  • Look at customer reviews and ratings to gauge the insurer’s reputation for handling claims and customer service.
  • Some insurers offer online claims processing, which can be more convenient.

Did you know?

Most pet insurance policies will not cover pre-existing medical conditions – those that do will be more expensive. Insuring your pet while they are younger means they could have a better chance of being covered later in life.

Money saving tips for your pet insurance

There are potentially several ways to save money on your dog and cat insurance. Below are some of the best:

  • Pay annually – if you pay for your pet insurance policy for the whole year rather than monthly, this may typically work out more cost-efficient.
  • Multi-pet insurance – some cat and dog insurance policies offer cover for multi-pet homes. In some cases, these can work out more cost-effective than buying individual policies.
  • Compare pet insurance quotes – shop around to see which policy offers the most appropriate cover to suit your budget
  • Continually review and adjust cover – regularly review your policy and adjust cover as needed. As your pet ages, their needs may change, and you might find a different level of cover more suitable.
  • Avoid unnecessary extras – some pet insurance policies come with add-ons that you might not require. Evaluate if you really need cover for things like travel or alternative therapies.

If you click the button below, you’ll be able to receive multiple quotes from pet insurance specialists.

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In summary: Buying pet insurance

Pet health insurance plans come in various types and levels of cover, allowing you to choose the one that fits your needs and budget. Whether you want comprehensive lifetime cover or a plan that focuses on accidents only, there is a policy that can suit your specific situation.

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To get pet insurance quotes from a panel of specialist insurance providers now, simply click the button below.

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Pet Insurance FAQs

Can I get no waiting period pet insurance?

It’s quite rare to find pet insurance policies with no waiting period. Most pet insurance policies include a waiting period that starts from the date you purchase the policy. This is a specified amount of time during which any illnesses or injuries that occur are not covered. The waiting period is typically around 14 days for illnesses and in some cases may be shorter for accidents, usually around 48 hours. The purpose of the waiting period is to prevent claims for conditions that were already present or occurred immediately before or just after the policy was purchased. This helps insurance providers mitigate the risk of covering pre-existing conditions or issues that arise immediately after taking out a policy.

Is pet insurance regulated in the UK?

Yes, UK pet insurance is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). This means that insurers must follow certain rules and standards when offering products and services, providing a level of protection to consumers. It’s important to choose an insurer that is FCA-regulated to ensure that they adhere to these standards and practices.

Can pet insurance be cancelled?

Yes, pet insurance policies can generally be cancelled at any time. If you cancel within the cooling-off period, which is usually within 14 days after purchase, you may receive a full refund if no claims have been made. Cancelling after this period might not entitle you to a refund for the portion of the premium already paid. Always review the cancellation policy before signing up with an insurer to understand any potential penalties or requirements.

Are there any alternatives to traditional pet insurance?

Alternatives to traditional pet insurance include self-insuring, where you set aside a fixed amount of money each month into a savings account specifically for potential vet bills. Another option could be membership-based services that offer discounts on veterinary services for a monthly or annual fee. These alternatives might be suitable for those who prefer more control over their finances or whose pets have pre-existing conditions not covered by traditional insurance.

How long does it take to receive reimbursement after a claim?

The time it takes to receive reimbursement after submitting a pet insurance claim can vary depending on the insurer and the complexity of the claim. Generally, if your claim is approved, once all necessary documentation has been received, reimbursement can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. Some insurers offer direct payments to veterinarians, which can streamline the process and reduce the upfront costs you have to cover.

Can I get pet insurance for an older pet?

Yes, you can get pet insurance for older pets, but there are some limitations to be aware of. Insurance for senior pets can be more expensive, as they are more likely to develop health issues. Additionally, some insurers might not offer new policies for pets over a certain age, or they may only provide limited cover. It’s important to check with individual insurers about their specific age-related policies.

Is pet insurance worth it?

While the value of pet insurance varies by individual circumstances, it can be a wise investment for many pet owners. It provides peace of mind knowing that you can afford medical care for your four-legged family member in case of an unexpected illness or accident. Considering the potential high cost of veterinary care, having insurance can save you from significant financial stress while providing the best possible care for your pet.

Can I use any vet?

Most pet insurance policies allow you to use any licensed veterinarian in the UK. However, some policies might offer a network of preferred providers or veterinarians that might involve additional benefits or discounts.

What is an excess, and how does it affect my pet insurance?

An excess is the amount you must pay out of pocket in the event of a successful claim. This can be charged annually or per condition. Higher excesses can lower your premium costs but increase out-of-pocket expenses when you make a claim.

Why should I get pet insurance?

Pet insurance is beneficial because it covers significant medical expenses that can be unexpectedly high. Insurance can help cover the cost of surgeries, medications, emergency visits, and, in some cases, preventive care, which can greatly reduce the financial stress of pet ownership. It also allows you to choose treatments for your pet based on the best medical option available rather than restricted by financial resources.