Veterinary care, particularly emergency services, can be costly. Emergency vet visits for dogs and cats typically range from $150 to $5,000 according to MetLife, with some bills reaching as high as $16,000 for severe cases. To mitigate these expenses, pet owners are advised to consider investing in pet health insurance while their pets are still healthy.
The rising costs of veterinary care have significant implications for both pet owners and insurance providers. In fact, inflation in veterinary costs was a key factor in Nationwide’s decision to drop around 100,000 pet insurance policies in 2025. Pet insurance can help offset unexpected veterinary bills, with some plans also covering routine care.
There are three primary types of pet insurance policies available:
- Accident-only policies
- Accident and illness policies
- Wellness policies
The average monthly premium for accident-and-illness plans is $49 for dogs and $29 for cats, based on 2021 data from the North American Pet Health Insurance Association. Wellness plans, which cover preventive care such as vaccinations, tend to be more expensive.
Tips to Save on Pet Insurance Premiums
1. Consider Accident-Only Plans
Accident-only policies are significantly cheaper, averaging $20 monthly for dogs and $11 for cats. These plans cover emergencies like poisonings, snake bites, and when pets ingest something they shouldn’t.
2. Choose a Higher Deductible
Plans with higher deductibles have lower premiums. However, it’s crucial to understand whether your policy has an annual or per-incident deductible.
3. Start Pet Insurance Early
Premiums are lower when pets are enrolled at a young age. Early enrollment also helps avoid issues with preexisting conditions in older pets.
4. Shop Around for Quotes
Compare rates from multiple providers using tools like PawlicyAdvisor or Policygenius. Review customer ratings and claims processing efficiency when selecting a provider.
5. Look for Available Discounts
Some insurers offer discounts for military personnel, seniors, or those who insure multiple pets. Bundling pet insurance with home or car insurance can also lead to savings, with companies like Nationwide and Progressive offering discounts to existing customers.
By implementing these strategies, pet owners can reduce their insurance costs while maintaining essential coverage for their pets.
