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Best Pet Insurance Companies

We compared 42 companies and chose the top pet insurance providers

  • Top overall
    Lemonade Pet Insurance
    4.2(480)
  • Customizable plans
    Embrace Pet Insurance
    3.9(1,694)
  • Accident-only plans
    ASPCA Pet Health Insurance
    4.4(1,171)

Best Pet Insurance Companies

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By: Ashley Eneriz
+1 more
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Edited by: Kathryn Parkman

Our top 4 picks for pet insurance companies

  1. Our top pick overall: Lemonade
  2. Our pick for customizable coverage: Embrace
  3. Our pick for accident-only coverage: ASPCA
  4. Our pick for customer service: Healthy Paws

To make our top picks, the ConsumerAffairs Research Team vetted 41 pet insurance companies reviewed by more than 5,000 people. You can read our full methodology to learn more about how we compared different lenders and chose our top picks.

While our picks may be Authorized Partners that compensate us, this does not affect our recommendations or evaluations. Our publishing policy ensures that the journalistic content and user reviews on ConsumerAffairs remain independent of commercial influences.

Our top pick overall
Lemonade Pet Insurance
Lemonade Pet Insurance
4.2
480 reviews
Upper age limit
Varies
Waiting period
Two days to six months
Reimbursement rates
60% to 90%
Annual reimbursement limits
$5,000 to $100,000
Get Pricing Read Reviews

Lemonade Pet Insurance earns the best overall due to its exceptional customer satisfaction, efficient claims handling and highly customizable plans. It utilizes AI technology to automate parts of the claims process with some claims reportedly paid in seconds. Many customers appreciate Lemonade’s mobile-friendly platform, which makes managing policies and filing claims more convenient.

Lemonade offers a range of deductible and reimbursement rate options, as well as multiple discounts. However, it doesn’t provide an accident-only plan or unlimited reimbursement options, which could be a drawback for some pet owners. Still, its combination of affordability, coverage flexibility and ease of use makes it a strong contender in the pet insurance market.

Pros

  • Pricing starts at $10/month
  • Multiple discounts
  • Quick reimbursement times
  • Mobile app for managing claims

Cons

  • Not available in every state
  • No local agents
  • Limited coverage for preexisting conditions

Plans start around $10 per month and increase based on your level of coverage and other factors such as pet age and your geographical location. Be sure to review the company policies and plans for any exclusions, such as dental illnesses, preexisting conditions and prescription diets. Lemonade offers several riders and add-ons that may allow coverage for these exclusions.

Some packages include live, 24/7 vet chats and coverage for genetic conditions. The Preventive Package includes dental care coverage, while the Preventive+ Package adds flea, tick and heartworm prevention and routine dental cleanings.

Lemonade also offers a Puppy/Kitten Preventative Package, which covers wellness exams, vaccinations, spaying/neutering, microchipping and more during your pet’s first year. Available discounts include 10% off when you bundle with other products (like renter’s insurance), 5% off for multi-pet policies and 5% off for paying annually instead of monthly.

I have been using Lemonade Insurance for a year with my pup and have just added my second dog to my policy. It is cheap, easy to understand and super reliable. I hear back in just a few hours for all my claims and they are always available to chat if I have any queries.
EllisEdmond, OK
Hey let's face it. Having money kicked back to you to help offset the cost of your pet's veterinarian bills is a must in this economy, especially for emergency situations. I have enjoyed the experience I have had with Lemonade. Yeah, sure there are some things that are not covered, such as dental cleanings, but with the money I save on preventative, and emergency situations, that's not such a big worry. The fast, and effective way the claims are done, makes me a very happy customer. Funds usually deposit the next day after filing a claim.
Nika'sRiverdale, GA

Many customers have had claims processed quickly and received reimbursement promptly. However, some reviews mention challenges with claims denials based on preexisting conditions and a few customers report difficulties in communication with the company.

Our pick for customizable coverage
Embrace Pet Insurance
Embrace Pet Insurance
3.9
1,694 reviews
Upper age limit
15 years for full coverage
Waiting period
14 days
Reimbursement rates
70% to 90%
Annual limits
$2,000 to unlimited
Read Reviews

Embrace Pet Insurance is our top choice for customizable coverage, offering flexible plans that cater to a wide range of pet needs. Whether you’re seeking coverage for emergency care, chronic conditions or wellness services, Embrace lets you adjust key aspects of your plan. You can customize deductibles, reimbursement percentages and annual limits to fit your needs and budget. It also offers multiple add-ons, such as routine care and prescription medication coverage for things like allergies and antibiotics, to provide comprehensive protection.

The flexibility extends to your choice of vet — Embrace doesn’t require you to use a specific network. It also offers an accident-only coverage option, making it ideal for both older pets and those with specific care requirements. This ability to tailor your policy makes Embrace a versatile choice for many pet owners.

Pros

  • Go to any vet
  • Vanishing deductible option
  • Accident-only coverage available
  • Military discounts

Cons

  • Elderly pets not eligible for comprehensive plan
  • No zero-deductible options
  • Limited online policy details

Embrace offers plans ranging from $8 to $38 per month for cats and $18 to $72 per month for dogs. Pricing depends on factors like your pet’s age and location, as well as your chosen coverage. Plus, there’s a 30-day money-back guarantee if you're not satisfied with your coverage. Embrace also allows you to customize your plan by adjusting deductibles, reimbursement percentages and annual limits to meet your needs.

Embrace also offers a 10% military discount and a 5% multi-pet discount. Another standout feature is the “vanishing deductible”, where your deductible decreases by $50 each year you don’t file a claim. Embrace’s coverage includes treatments such as dental care (up to $1,000 per year), specialist care and alternative therapies, offering comprehensive coverage for your pet’s health. It also provides add-ons like Wellness Rewards to help with the cost of routine care, such as vaccines.

While older pets (15+ years) aren’t eligible for the comprehensive plan, they can still benefit from Embrace’s accident-only coverage, which covers incidents such as foreign object ingestion or injuries from dog fights. The plan reimburses up to $5,000 per year with a $100 deductible and a 90% reimbursement rate.

Embrace does a very good job of dealing with Daisy's vet bills quickly and efficiently. The online process is easy to do and Embrace reacts quickly after submission. Daisy is especially happy because we use some of our refund to buy her treats.
JohnPensacola, FL
I have had this service for almost a decade and it has been great. It has helped save Muffie's life many times. I have never had an issue with them and when I call to speak to them they always provide excellent customer service.
DanNew Cumberland, PA
I have always been pleased when submitting a claim with Embrace. They are prompt with processing and someone is always there for communication. The website for submitting claims is user friendly. I have been with Embrace for many years.
PaulaEvansville, IN

Not everyone is happy with their coverage. Bob in Virginia told us he never had a successful claim in three years. He reported, “They rejected every claim by calling them preexisting conditions” and his monthly payments have increased each year.

Keep in mind, Embrace offers its comprehensive (accident and illness) plan only to pets under 15 years old. However, older pets can still benefit from an accident-only policy.

Our pick for accident-only coverage
ASPCA Pet Health Insurance
ASPCA Pet Health Insurance
4.4
1,171 reviews
Upper age limit
None
Waiting period
14 days
Reimbursement rates
70% to 90%
Annual limits
$2,500 to $10,000
Get Pricing Read Reviews

ASPCA Pet Health Insurance stands out as our top choice for accident-only coverage, offering affordable, straightforward protection against unexpected injuries. For around $20 per month, this plan covers a variety of accidents, such as broken bones, toxic ingestion and cuts.

Unlike comprehensive plans that come with higher premiums, ASPCA’s accident-only plan offers an economical option for pet owners seeking emergency protection without breaking the bank. This coverage also stands out by including exam fees — something many other insurers charge extra for.

Another reason ASPCA is our top pick for accident-only coverage is its flexibility. The plan has no age restrictions, so even older pets can receive protection for accidental injuries. Additionally, there’s no requirement to use a specific vet, giving you freedom to choose the best care for your pet.

While preventative care does come at an additional cost, the ability to add it on makes ASPCA’s plan a versatile choice for pet owners who want both accident protection and coverage for basic health services like vaccinations or spaying.

Pros

  • Exam fees included
  • No age restrictions
  • No networks

Cons

  • Preventive care costs extra
  • Supplements and vitamins not covered

ASPCA Pet Health Insurance offers flexible plans for dogs, cats and horses, starting at just $20 per month for accident-only coverage, with a $10,000 annual limit. For those seeking more complete protection, ASPCA also offers a comprehensive plan that covers both accidents and illnesses, including conditions like cancer and arthritis. ASPCA’s plans are customizable, offering flexibility with annual limits, deductibles and reimbursement rates to suit your budget and needs.

While supplements and vitamins are not covered, you can add preventative care coverage for an additional $9.95 per month, which includes services like vaccinations and spaying. Additionally, if your pet has a prior condition that hasn’t shown symptoms or received treatment for 180 days or more, it’s no longer considered preexisting (excluding knee and ligament issues). This flexibility makes ASPCA a strong option for pet owners seeking affordable and customizable coverage.

ASPCA Pet Health Insurance gave us a lot of peace of mind after a very traumatic accident with our Dog Gatsby. The claims process was easy without complication.
JoshLos Angeles, CA
I purchased ASPCA Pet Health Insurance immediately after being adopted by a stray cat. Little did I know I would need to use the insurance soon after adopting her as she became ill with a digestive disorder. ASPCA has promptly responded to my claims, paying exactly as anticipated, with no nasty surprises. The insurance has been a literal lifesaver for my sweet cat, as I could not afford the quality of care she needs without the help of this insurance. I highly recommend ASPCA for doing exactly what they say they'd do, for the ease of submitting claims through the app, and for their communication with my vet.
LeilaDansville, MI
This is the BEST pet insurance and worth the money! I have had ASPCA for many years and they always treat me and my pets well and pay claims in a timely manner or ask for additional information if needed. I tried a less expensive policy a few years ago and it was terrible.
LeighPaterson, NJ

Happy customers appreciate the ease of submitting claims online and the helpfulness of customer service representatives. However, there are also negative reviews, with customers expressing frustration over denied claims and high premium increases. 

“It's hit or miss with ASPCA,” Mary in New York told us. “I called the other day to discuss an injury on one of my client's horses, and the girl had no equine knowledge. It made the conversation very infuriating, and I was not happy about it.”

Our pick for customer service
Healthy Paws, a Chubb Company
Healthy Paws, a Chubb Company
4.9
768 reviews
Upper age limit
14 years
Waiting period
15 days
Reimbursement rates
70% to 90%
Annual limits
No limit
Get Pricing Read Reviews

Healthy Paws Pet Insurance & Foundation made our list thanks to its commitment to customer service. It has earned a reputation for handling claims quickly and efficiently, reportedly processing 99% of claims within two days. This swift response ensures pet owners aren’t left waiting for reimbursement when their pets need treatment, offering greater peace of mind during stressful times. In addition to fast claims processing, Healthy Paws is known for its responsive customer support team, which helps make navigating the insurance process as smooth as possible.

With a focus on ease and accessibility, Healthy Paws allows customers to submit claims online or via a mobile app, making it simple to get reimbursed. This customer-first approach has made it a favorite among pet owners who value efficient, hassle-free service and appreciate the company’s dedication to providing prompt support when it’s needed most. Additionally, Healthy Paws offers a 30-day money-back guarantee in most states, further emphasizing its commitment to customer satisfaction.

Pros

  • Fast processing
  • No caps on payouts
  • Mobile app
  • Easy-to-understand plan

Cons

  • 15-day waiting period
  • Somewhat limited plan options
  • Premiums may increase significantly over time

Healthy Paws offers a single plan that covers accidents, illnesses and emergency care with up to 90% reimbursement. Premiums typically start around $15 per month for cats and $20 per month for dogs. Final costs will depend on factors like age, breed, and location. Deductibles range from $100 to $500, giving flexibility to adjust pricing based on your preferences. There are no caps on payouts, offering unlimited coverage for eligible care.

While the plan provides a straightforward approach, monthly premiums can be more affordable with a lower reimbursement rate (as low as 50%) and higher deductibles (up to $1,000, depending on your state). This allows for more customization but may result in higher out-of-pocket expenses when you need to file a claim.

We have used Healthy Paws pet insurance since 2017. Our cat got the best care we could give and Healthy Paws was a huge part of his quality of life. We had major surgeries covered. We have long term medications covered. Healthy Paws was also fast to complete and cover claims.
DoranLa Jolla, CA
Health Paws is affordable. They have responsive customer service. The app and claims are simple and pay quickly. Overall we are very happy with Healthy Paws. My dog had major surgery. I wasn’t sure how to proceed but I called and customer service told me how to proceed in terms of records so that they can process my claim. After the surgery- Our claim was processed in under 2 weeks.
AnnieWoburn, MA
Healthy Paws paid 80% of every bill we submitted. You can imagine how much his care and medication costs were for those 6 days and subsequent follow-up care to this day. We are thankful for them being there for us during this difficult time and would highly recommend them! In addition to the financial support they have given, they also check in periodically on our boy just to see how he is doing and to send him big virtual hugs!
ElizabethLivonia, MI

Your rates may increase over time, particularly as your pet ages or with inflation. For example, Justin in Hampshire reported that his premiums increased by about 300% over six years. While Healthy Paws offers a straightforward plan, keep in mind that premium adjustments could lead to higher costs in the future. Additionally, since there is only one plan option, you won’t have the flexibility to switch between different coverage types as your needs evolve.

Pet Insurance Providers Buyers guide

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Pet insurance buyers guide

No one likes to imagine their furry friend getting ill or having an accidental injury, but it happens, and it can be costly. Emergency vet visits can cost from hundreds to thousands of dollars. Pet insurance helps you pay for the pricey vet visit and helps ensure you can afford the care your pet needs.

Key insights

On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $10 to $50 per month for a good pet insurance plan.

Jump to insight

Most plans are designed to cover unexpected accidents and illnesses for dogs and cats.

Jump to insight

Some pet insurers have age restrictions, breed exclusions and exam requirements before your pet is eligible for coverage.

Jump to insight

What is pet insurance?

Pet insurance is a policy that reimburses you for covered veterinary expenses. It provides peace of mind for many pet owners by helping to manage unexpected veterinary costs. Depending on the provider, plans can include coverage for accidents, illnesses, medication, and wellness care. Like other types of insurance, pet insurance plans typically have annual deductibles, reimbursement rates, waiting periods and benefit caps. Generally, you pay the vet bill upfront, file a claim and pet insurance reimburses you. However, some policies may help you avoid out-of-pocket expenses by paying the vet directly.

If something happened to your pet, how would you pay the bill?

“The best way to ensure that your pet is adequately covered is to purchase a comprehensive pet health insurance plan when the animal is young and healthy,” Dr. Jamie Whittenburg, veterinarian director at the website Senior Tail Waggers, told us.

» MORE: Pet insurance statistics

What does pet insurance cover?

Pet insurance plans can cover accidents, illnesses and chronic conditions, depending on the level of coverage you choose. Most plans are designed to cover unexpected accidents and illnesses, like broken bones and diabetes. It also covers medically necessary treatments and diagnostic testing like X-rays, MRIs, chemotherapy, hydrotherapy and hospitalizations. If you have an exotic pet, such as a guinea pig or a bird, you can look at companies that provide exotic pet insurance.

What does pet insurance not cover? “Pet health insurance does not cover preexisting conditions and may not be helpful in cases where the pet already has medical issues,” Dr. Whittenburg said. However, exclusions vary by policy and provider.

Basic plans don’t usually cover routine illnesses; they cover only accidents. Comprehensive plans offer coverage for common illnesses like ear infections, cancer or other conditions that may develop over time, but usually not routine care or breeding.

» LEARN: Does pet insurance cover prescription food?

Typically covered

  • Infections
  • Ear illnesses
  • Eye illnesses
  • Bone fractures or breaks
  • Fleaborne illnesses
  • Foreign body ingestion
  • Lacerations
  • Insect bites

Common exclusions

  • Preexisting conditions
  • Examination fees
  • Preventive care
  • Cosmetic procedures
  • Issues from owner negligence
  • Breeding costs

How much does pet insurance cost?

On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $10 to $50 per month for a good pet insurance plan. How much you pay varies depending on factors including your location, what type of pet you have, your pet's age and what type of coverage you choose. Accident-only plans are typically cheaper, and any available discounts can lessen the cost. Coverage that includes preventive care typically costs more.

» COMPARE: Best cheap pet insurance companies

How to choose pet insurance

“When looking at different pet health insurance policies, it is imperative to research what each plan covers, premiums, exclusions, limits and reimbursement policies,” Dr. Whittenburg explained. “The process for filing claims and reimbursement should also be clear so that there are no surprises or issues.”

You need a pet insurance company that will cover your unique pet care needs. These steps will help you discover the best pet insurance for you:

  1. Research plan options: Think about the type of coverage your pet will need the most. If you’re most worried about paying for expensive wellness care that may cover routine things like dental checkups or spaying, be sure to find plans that cover that.
  2. Consider pet eligibility requirements: You can usually get a policy for your dog or cat as long as they're at least six to eight weeks old. However, some pet insurers have age restrictions, breed exclusions and exam requirements before your pet is eligible for coverage.
  3. Look for discount opportunities: Many companies offer discounts for multiple pets or pet parents who are military members. In some states, you can combine discount opportunities to get up to 25% off your monthly bill.
  4. Ask about the network or provider list: Some pet insurance companies may restrict where you can take your pet for care. If you live in an area with limited options, make sure your plan lets you visit any licensed veterinarian.
  5. Understand specific coverages and exclusions: Read through your policy carefully. You don’t want to go to the vet thinking you’re covered for an expensive bill only to find out you’re on your own.

Compare multiple pet insurance quotes to find the best coverage for your pet’s needs and your budget.

» COMPARE: 2025 Pet Insurance Plans

Pet insurance pros and cons

Pet insurance can offer protection for your beloved furry companions, but like any financial decision, it's not the right choice for everyone.

Pros

  • Peace of mind
  • Flexible plans
  • Possible discounts
  • Predictable veterinary costs
  • Routine care coverage

Cons

  • Exclusions for preexisting conditions or specific hereditary issues
  • Waiting period
  • Coverage limits
  • Usually requires you to pay upfront and get reimbursed
  • Not all costs covered

» MORE: Pros and cons of pet insurance

When should I buy pet insurance?

The best time to buy pet insurance is when your pet is young and healthy. Policies tend to be less expensive when your pet is younger, too. Most policies have waiting periods before coverage kicks in, so enrolling early helps ensure you and your pet get the most out of your plan. However, there are other key times when purchasing pet insurance may be a smart choice:

  • As soon as you adopt a new puppy or kitten
  • When adopting an adult pet, especially one with an unknown medical history
  • Before signs of illness develop or injury occurs, as coverage won’t apply to preexisting conditions
  • Before major life changes — like moving, having a baby or financial shifts — that could impact vet care affordability

Purchasing pet insurance early not only ensures your pet receives comprehensive coverage but can also help you avoid higher costs or denied claims due to preexisting conditions. By enrolling sooner rather than later, you provide your pet with the best chance for long-term health protection.

» MORE: Does pet insurance cover hip dysplasia?

Pet insurance alternatives

Not all pets will qualify for pet insurance, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be ready in case something happens. If you can’t get pet insurance or are looking for a better option for your budget, try these alternatives to protect your finances.

  • Pawp Emergency Fund: Pawp is a monthly subscription that offers a 24/7 veterinary telehealth service. The monthly prices vary on your animal and needs, but its $19 per-month add-on, Pawp Emergency Fund, allows you to claim $3,000 per year toward an emergency.
  • Pet Assure: Anyone can sign up for Pet Assure, regardless of their pet’s age or existing condition. It isn’t pet insurance but rather a flat 25% discount (that cannot be combined with other discounts). Not all veterinarians have heard of Pet Assure or use it, so do your research before signing up.
  • Create your own emergency fund: You don’t need a special plan to create your own emergency savings fund. If you set aside $25 per week, you will have saved $1,300 in a year — plus interest — if you stash your cash in a high-yield savings account.
  • Care Credit: Care Credit is a credit card by Synchrony Financial specifically designed to help you pay for the cost of pet care upfront. However, beware of high interest rates.

While pet insurance is a great option for many pet owners, it's not the only way to protect your pet’s health and your finances. Alternatives like these can provide peace of mind and help cover unexpected vet expenses when insurance isn’t the best fit. Be sure to carefully evaluate your pet's needs, your budget and your long-term goals when choosing the right financial protection for your furry friend. No matter what option you choose, the most important thing is ensuring your pet gets the care they deserve.

FAQ

Can I have more than one pet insurance policy?

Yes, several pet insurance companies will allow you to add multiple pets to one plan and even offer a discount for doing so.

Can I get coverage for an older pet?

While many pet insurance providers offer coverage for older pets, you might have to pay a higher premium, and some companies set age limits and restrictions. If there is an age limit, it’s usually between 9 and 15 years.

Especially if you have an older pet with preexisting conditions, pet insurance might not be the best option for you. Consider starting a pet emergency fund by putting money in a high-yield online savings account you can access in the event of an illness or emergency.

Is pet insurance worth it?

Buying pet insurance can be worth it if you're concerned about paying for expensive, nonroutine medical care, like surgery or infections, when your pet is ill or injured. If you’re a first-time pet owner, you might appreciate knowing that you can take your animal to the vet after an accident or illness without paying 100% of the bill out of pocket.

Keep in mind that most pet insurance companies don't cover preventive care like spaying and neutering, though some companies do offer add-on coverage that includes these procedures.

» MORE: Does pet insurance cover microchips?

Is it ever too late to get pet insurance?

While it's ideal to buy pet insurance when your pet is young and healthy, it's never too late to get coverage. However, the earlier you enroll, the more comprehensive the coverage can be, especially if your pet has no preexisting conditions. Waiting too long may limit coverage or increase costs.

Will pet insurance cover my pet's preexisting conditions?

No, pet insurance typically does not cover preexisting conditions. To avoid exclusions, it's best to purchase insurance before any signs of illness or injury develop. Enrolling early ensures that your pet has full protection from the start.

» MORE: Does pet insurance cover pregnancy?

How can I choose the right pet insurance provider?

Choosing the right pet insurance provider involves comparing coverage options, costs and customer reviews. Look for a plan that fits your pet's specific needs, offers adequate coverage and fits within your budget. Getting multiple quotes will help you find the best plan for your pet.

Methodology

To update our top picks, the ConsumerAffairs Research Team used a weighted scoring system that took into account both reviews from ConsumerAffairs users and specific company offerings we researched. We conducted sentence-by-sentence sentiment analysis of thousands of reviews on our site from Dec. 1, 2021, to Nov. 30, 2024, to identify the aspects people care about most — and which companies reviewers are happiest with for each aspect. For pet insurance, these included:

  • Claims handling satisfaction
  • Staff satisfaction
  • Customer service satisfaction

We then carefully selected the most important offerings consumers should consider before choosing a pet insurance company and researched these offerings at each company:

  • Customizability
  • Reimbursement options
  • Deductible options
  • Availability of accident-only plan
  • Discounts

The company with the highest score in each category’s uniquely weighted formula was given the “Our pick for” designation. In some cases where a single company received the top score across multiple categories, the company with the next-highest score was named the winner.

Disclaimer

Information in this guide is general in nature and is intended for informational purposes only; it is not legal, health, investment or tax advice. ConsumerAffairs.com makes no representation as to the accuracy of the information provided and assumes no liability for any damages or loss arising from its use.

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    Guide sources

    ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from reputable publications to inform their work. Specific sources for this article include:

    1. American Veterinary Medical Association, “Pet health insurance.” Accessed Dec. 13, 2024.

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