MetLife Pet Insurance: A NerdWallet Review
MetLife offers customizable pet insurance plans, earning a 5-star rating from NerdWallet. This review dives into MetLife’s coverage, costs, and overall value to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your furry, feathered, or scaled friend.
Overview
- NerdWallet Rating: 5.0/5
- Annual Max Coverage: Unlimited
- Reimbursement Rates: 50% – 90%
- Deductibles: $0 – $2,500
MetLife stands out as a well-established insurer with a solid reputation. Founded in 1868, the company provides comprehensive pet insurance options for dogs, cats, and even other animals in select states.
What MetLife Covers
MetLife’s accident and illness policies cover a wide range of veterinary expenses, including:
- Vet exam fees.
- Hospitalizations, surgeries, and emergency care.
- Diagnostic tests.
- Prescription medications and food.
- Cruciate repairs
- Hereditary, congenital, and chronic conditions.
- Skin allergies.
- Periodontal disease.
- Holistic and alternative therapies.
- Cremation or burial costs.
MetLife also offers an optional preventive care package that may reimburse for:
- Flea, tick, or heartworm medication.
- Spaying or neutering.
- Vaccinations.
- Dental cleaning.
- Nail trimming.
- Certain procedures (e.g., dew claw removal).
- Supplements and vitamins.
- Anal gland expression.
- Behavioral trining.
- Selected preventive testings
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Deductible decreases annually if no claims are filed (in some states).
- Accident coverage begins immediately with no waiting period.
- Coverage for holistic and alternative care is included.
- Offers 24/7 vet chat service for policy holders.
Cons:
- Direct payment to vets is not an option.
MetLife Plan Options
Deductibles:
MetLife offers a variety of deductibles, ranging from $0 to $2,500 per year. The available options vary based on the policy, and not all options are accessible online for all pets.
Reimbursement Options:
Reimbursement rates range from 50% to 90%, depending on the plan.
Coverage Limits:
Coverage limits can vary from $2,000 to unlimited, depending on the plan and the state of residence. Exotic pets are subject to a maximum limit of $10,000 per year.
Sample Rates
The costs for MetLife pet insurance vary according to where you live, the coverage options selected, and your pet’s breed and age. The following are some sample monthly premiums based on accident and illness coverage with a $250 deductible for popular dog and cat breeds in Katy, Texas. Actual rates will vary:
Sample Dog Rates (Katy, Texas)
Sample Cat Rates (Katy, Texas)
Discounts Available
MetLife offers potential discounts for those who:
- Purchase a policy through their workplace or an affinity group.
- Buy their pet insurance online.
- Are veterans or active military members.
- Are healthcare workers, first responders, or staff at animal care facilities.
- May also lower deductible by $50 each year they don’t submit a claim.
Availability
MetLife pet insurance is available in all 50 states and Washington, D.C. However, coverage options might not be offered to all pets in a given state.
Digital Experience
MetLife provides a user-friendly website and app for policy management. They offer a 24/7 vet chat service for policyholders. This allows you to review policy information, track claim progress, upload health records, and chat with a veterinarian.
Filing a Claim
You can file a claim online, via the MetLife app, or by mail. Claims generally pay out within five business days.
Contacting MetLife
For customer service, you can contact MetLife via live chat, call 855-934-6153, or email [email protected].
MetLife vs. Competitors
Here’s how MetLife stacks up against other popular pet insurance providers:
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is MetLife pet insurance?
Rates start at $16/month for dogs and $7/month for cats, though prices vary.
Does MetLife have a neuter or spay requirement?
No.
Can I take my pet to any vet?
Yes, you can bring your pet to any licensed vet in the U.S.
Can I add another pet to my MetLife pet insurance policy?
Yes, via the Family Plan.
Does MetLife have any breed restrictions?
No
