Coverage Available
Below is a list of what Pet Health Insurance covers:
*Exam Fees | |
*Diagnostics | |
*Hospitalization | |
*Emergency Visits | |
*Rx Medications | |
*Surgery | |
*Accidents & Injuries – such as swallowed objects, broken bones, toxic ingestions, cuts, burns, and more. | |
*Illnesses – including treatment for serious conditions, like diabetes and cancer, to minor conditions, like upset stomach and ear infections. | |
*Hereditary & Congenital Conditions – which pets inherit or are predisposed to through their breed, like hip dysplasia and cherry eye. | |
*Behavioral Care – which can consist of medication or treatment for issues such as separation anxiety or aggression. | |
*Preventive Care – can be added to get reimbursed a set amount for things that protect pets from getting sick, like vaccines, dental cleanings, and screenings. |
Cost factors
The cost of pet health insurance is generally determined by four factors:
Location:
Veterinary care is costlier in certain parts of the country. For instance, if you’re living in rural Wyoming, you’ll probably pay less for pet insurance than someone in New York City.
Age:
The likelihood of your pet becoming ill increases with age.
Breed:
Your dog or cat may be predisposed to certain illnesses based on size and genetics. For example, Abyssinians are one of the most expensive cat breeds to ensure, as they’re more prone to periodontal disease and retinal atrophy. When it comes to dog breeds, pet insurance is generally costlier for Great Danes—they’re vulnerable to heart and hip issues and medication may cost more for bigger dogs.
Deductible and reimbursement level:
Choosing a higher deductible will lower the cost of your plan, but will increase your out-of-pocket costs at the vet. A lower deductible will increase your plan’s price, but you’ll be reimbursed more on your claim. Your level of reimbursement will also affect pricing. For instance, a plan with a 90% reimbursement amount will cost more than a plan that pays you back for 70% of your vet bill.