
Pet insurance is for the unexpected, not routine treatment, so there are a few things that are usually excluded
- Vaccinations and routine vet check ups, or preventative treatment
You’ll have to pay for vaccinations and check ups for preventative medicine like flea and worm treatments yourself. - Neutering and pregnancy
Pet insurance won’t cover the cost of having your pet castrated or spayed. You’ll also have to pay costs for treatments needed because of your cat or dog becoming pregnant, or giving birth. - Pre-existing conditions
Pet insurance usually doesn’t cover any health issues your pet was showing signs of before you took out the policy.
If they first become ill while you have lifetime pet insurance, they’ll continue to be covered for that treatment as long as you keep renewing the policy. - Dental treatment
Looking after your pet’s teeth with a scale and polish or extractions is rarely covered by pet insurance. Although most policies will cover emergency dental work for injuries caused by an accident. - Cremation and burial costs
Although euthanasia is covered by pet insurance in some circumstances, you’ll usually have to pay for burial or cremation costs yourself.
Pet insurance provides essential financial support for veterinary care, but it doesn’t cover everything. Understanding exclusions can help you make informed decisions about your pet’s health and budget.
1. Pre-existing Conditions
Most pet insurance policies don’t cover pre-existing conditions, which are illnesses or injuries your pet had before the policy started or during a waiting period. This includes chronic ailments like diabetes, allergies, or orthopedic issues diagnosed before coverage. Some insurers may cover conditions considered curable, but only after a symptom-free waiting period.
2. Routine and Preventive Care
Unless you purchase an additional wellness plan, pet insurance typically doesn’t cover preventive care such as annual checkups, vaccinations, flea and tick prevention, or dental cleanings. These routine costs are considered part of regular pet ownership responsibilities. Some insurers offer optional wellness coverage to handle these expenses.
3. Elective and Cosmetic Procedures
Non-essential or cosmetic procedures, like tail docking, ear cropping, and declawing for cats, are not covered. Likewise, expenses for breeding or pregnancy-related procedures, artificial insemination, and whelping are generally excluded. Cosmetic treatments, even for cosmetic reasons involving surgery or enhancements, remain uncovered.
4. Grooming and Pet Supplies
Grooming services, nail trimming, shampoos, and dental hygiene products are not covered. Additionally, costs for non-medical supplies like beds, toys, leashes, or litter boxes aren’t reimbursable. Pet insurance focuses on healthcare expenses, excluding routine grooming and accessory costs.
5. Specific Dental Treatments
While some policies cover dental accidents or infections, many exclude routine dental work, orthodontic treatment, or cosmetic dental procedures. Coverage for teeth cleaning or maintenance is often part of a separate wellness plan. You should always review your policy for details on dental care limitations.
6. Behavioral Treatments
Behavioral therapy, training, or consultations are not covered unless explicitly stated in your policy. This exclusion can apply to treatments for issues like anxiety, aggression, or destructive behavior. Some insurers may offer limited behavioral coverage, but this is less common.
7. Alternative Therapies and Experimental Treatments
Not all insurance plans cover holistic or alternative treatments like acupuncture, chiropractic care, or homeopathy. Additionally, experimental or investigational treatments, which lack significant veterinary approval, are often excluded. Some comprehensive plans might cover a few alternative therapies if recommended by a vet.
8. Breeding and Pregnancy Costs
If you breed your pet, standard insurance policies won’t cover the costs related to pregnancy, labor, or breeding complications. Coverage for pregnancy-related health issues, delivery, or neonatal care is typically available only through specialized plans.
9. Hip Dysplasia and Genetic Conditions
Certain breeds prone to genetic disorders, like hip dysplasia, may not have coverage under standard policies. This limitation varies by insurer, but some companies won’t cover hereditary or congenital conditions unless you select an advanced plan that explicitly includes them.
10. Illnesses from Preventable Situations
If your pet becomes ill from preventable issues, like a disease due to missed vaccinations or illness from a non-sterile environment, coverage might be denied. Pet insurance providers expect pet owners to maintain basic preventive health measures.