Peace of Mind: 5 Things Covered by Pet Insurance Providers
Updated August 28, 2023.
Your pet's medical expenses can add up quickly. According to the American Pet Products Association's National Pet Owners Survey, a routine vet visit costs an average of $242 for a dog and $178 for a cat. But if your furry friend needs medical treatment or surgery, that can add several hundred to your bill. For example, the average surgery cost for a dog is $458, and for a cat, it is $201.
If you have a pet insurance policy, it can reimburse you for part or all of these expenses. Most pet insurance plans help pay the cost of unplanned but necessary treatments.
Five Things Covered by Pet Insurance Providers
- Surgery
- Hip Dysplasia
- Congenital Conditions
- Medication
- Euthanasia
1. Surgery
If you're looking for a pet insurance plan that covers surgery, emergency surgery, and emergency vet visits, read through the policy terms carefully. While pet insurance plans may cover surgeries, including emergency surgeries and preventative procedures, optional surgeries and surgeries related to pre-existing conditions (illnesses or injuries that develop before your policy goes into effect) are often not covered.
Does pet insurance cover emergency visits?
Many pet insurance plans cover emergency veterinary treatment, as pet insurance is designed to help pet owners with unexpected vet bills.
2. Hip Dysplasia
Determining if your pet insurance covers hip dysplasia and other genetic conditions may be essential. Hip dysplasia is a hereditary hip deformity more common in larger-breed dogs such as German Shepherds, Great Danes, and Saint Bernards. Factors such as growth rate, diet, exercise, and muscle mass can all affect the likelihood of developing this condition. Pet insurance usually only covers hip dysplasia if the dog does not have it or shows any symptoms when you purchase the policy or during your waiting period.
3. Congenital Conditions
Does Pet Insurance cover congenital conditions? If so, which ones? A congenital issue is present when your pet is born. Common congenital conditions include:
- Neurologic defects
- Heart defects
- Eye issues
- Hip and elbow joint abnormalities
Congenital disorders can occur for no apparent reason. They can also be inherited or caused by environmental factors. Pet insurance usually covers both congenital and hereditary conditions, depending on when they manifest.
🐾 Take care of your pet's health by providing proper dental hygiene
4. Medication
Prescription drugs for our furry friends are often expensive, so it's worth asking: does pet insurance cover medication? Most pet insurance providers cover medicine as long as a licensed veterinarian prescribes it to treat a condition covered under your policy. However, insurance generally does not cover prescription food and supplements.
Does Pet Insurance Cover Allergies?
Allergy medication may be eligible for pet insurance coverage if a licensed vet prescribes it. If you don't know exactly what your furry friend's itching, scratching, or hives are caused by, you should ask your pet insurance provider if your policy covers allergy testing. Most pet insurance companies cover allergy testing ordered by a licensed veterinarian.
🐾 Find out if pet insurance covers vaccinations and deworming
5. Euthanasia
Nobody wants to think about losing a pet, but planning can save you hundreds of dollars at the end of your pet's life. Most pet insurance providers cover euthanasia. However, some insurance policies, particularly accident-only insurance plans, only cover euthanasia if it's accident-related. Ask your provider if pet insurance covers euthanasia and cremation/burial services.
What about cancer?
Cancer is a prevalent cause of death in dogs, and terminal cancer with pain is a scenario when an owner might consider euthanasia. Comprehensive pet insurance policies usually include cancer treatment costs. Still, they typically do not cover pre-existing conditions. So if your pet develops cancer before you buy a pet insurance plan, cancer treatment costs will not be covered.
Make Sure Your Pet Is Covered
Keeping your pet healthy is a top priority. A pet insurance policy can help protect your pet's health and finances while taking the stress out of making decisions for your pet during tough times.
