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Pet insurance

You can protect yourself against vet bills with two different types of insurance. Find out what is and isn’t covered, and how to keep costs down.

What it does

There are two kinds of pet insurance:

  • Life-long – it will pay out for specific conditions for the life of your pet; and
  • Time-limited – it will only pay out for a maximum of 12 months per condition.

In both cases the cover only continues provided you keep paying the premiums.

Policies vary, but in addition to an agreed maximum payout for a vet's bills and drugs, some will pay for you to advertise if your pet has been lost; or for kennel/cattery fees if you suddenly have to go into hospital; and, in some cases, the cost of making good damage caused by your pet.

What isn't covered

Generally, the routine maintenance items such as annual vaccinations, boosters and nail clipping, as well as spaying and neutering are not covered.

Costs

The cost of pet insurance varies – for example it is usually more expensive for dogs than cats, and for older pets rather than younger pets, and even where you live can affect the cost because of the varying cost of vet’s fees.

Most policies have a standard excess charge which means you agree to pay the first part of any claim, for example the first £50 or £100. If you agree to pay a higher excess you might get a cheaper policy. Make sure you disclose any key relevant information. Shop around and always compare what's covered by a policy, not just the price. Some may be cheaper than others, but they may not offer the same level of protection.

Make sure you disclose any key relevant information – particularly any previous or continuing illness or disease. Shop around and always compare what's covered by a policy, not just the price. Some may be cheaper than others, but they may not offer the same level of protection.

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Top tips

  1. Read the paperwork and ask questions if you don't understand anything.
  2. Make sure you check what you're covered or not covered for.
  3. Shop around when it comes to renewal time to make sure you're getting the best deal, but beware that any existing conditions will probably not be covered by a new insurer.