What does pet insurance cover?

Pet insurance cover with Sainsbury’s Bank

With so many pet insurance companies to choose from, all with different levels of products and policies, it can sometimes be hard to know what you’re actually covered for. 

While insurance sounds all-encompassing, you might have questions around whether your pet insurance covers vet visits? And things like, will pet insurance cover spaying and vaccinations?

To help you understand what’s what, this guide details what’s typically included in most pet insurance policies.

It will also explain what you may be able to add as optional extras, as well as things that aren’t usually included.
 

What pet insurance covers

The most common reason to take out pet insurance is to cover the cost of expensive vet fees if your pet gets injured or falls ill.

Cover for vet fees is included in all pet insurance policies. But the amount you may be covered for will depend on the company, product and level of cover you choose.

When you’re doing your research on pet insurance and what it covers, it’s important to read the policy documents carefully so you know the maximum benefits that could be paid out plus any excesses, special conditions and exclusions that apply.

As well as cover for vet fees, most standard pet insurance cover in the UK includes:

• The price you paid for your pet if it dies from an accidental injury or illness
• The price of your pet if it strays or is stolen and can’t be found
• Third party liability if your dog accidentally injures someone or damages their property
   

What else can pet insurance cover?

Depending on the company, product and level of cover you choose, there are a number of other features and benefits that may be included with your pet insurance.

These may come as standard with a premium policy – or they could be added as optional extras.

What’s not covered by pet insurance?

While it’s important to get confirmation of what your cat insurance or dog insurance covers, it’s just as important to double check what’s not included in your policy.

So before you decide what cover is right for you and your pet, look at the policy documents in detail. Make sure you’re fully aware of all the terms, conditions, excesses, exclusions and limitations that apply.

Every pet insurance policy is different, but as a guide, you most likely won’t be covered for any:

• Pre-existing medical conditions or symptoms you’re already aware of before your policy starts
• Amount more than the maximum benefit included with your policy
• Excess you’re required to pay as part of each claim
• Grooming or cosmetic treatments such as cosmetic dentistry or nail clipping
• Illnesses or injuries that first occur or show symptoms within the first few weeks of your policy starting
• Routine or preventative treatments such as spaying, injections and vaccinations
• Treatment relating to pregnancy, birth or breeding
• Costs related to investigative tests – like pre-operative blood tests – unless to diagnose a condition for an existing symptom for something covered by your policy
   

Other helpful guides

Get the guidance you need to make the right decisions for you and your pet with our go-to pet insurance guides.