What is Exotic Pet Insurance?
Exotic pet insurance is designed to help pet owners cover unexpected veterinary costs for animals that aren’t cats or dogs. This type of insurance can be crucial for owners of birds, rodents, reptiles, and amphibians who require medical care.
How Exotic Pet Insurance Works
Exotic pet insurance policies typically cover accidents and illnesses, reimbursing owners for vet bills after they pay a deductible. The reimbursement percentage and annual coverage limits vary by policy. For example, some insurers offer reimbursement rates of 70%, 80%, or 90% after the deductible is met.
What’s Covered by Exotic Pet Insurance
Coverage varies by policy, but common conditions treated include:
- Arthritis
- Digestive issues like diarrhea or constipation
- Eye and skin infections
- Internal parasites
- Respiratory infections
- Soft tissue trauma
Exclusions from Coverage
Most policies don’t cover:
- Pre-existing conditions
- Congenital or hereditary defects
- Elective procedures like wing clipping
- Routine care and vaccinations
- Food and supplements
Which Animals Qualify as Exotic Pets?
The term ‘exotic pet’ isn’t strictly defined but generally includes any animal that’s not a dog, cat, or farm animal. This broad category can encompass:
- Birds
- Reptiles
- Amphibians
- Rodents (like hamsters and guinea pigs)
- Insects and arachnids
Companies Offering Exotic Pet Insurance
Several insurers provide coverage for exotic pets, including:
- MetLife: Offers accident and illness coverage with deductible options from $0 to $2,500 and annual limits up to $10,000.
- Nationwide: Provides avian and exotic pet accident and illness plans with 90% reimbursement up to $2,000 per incident and $7,000 lifetime maximum.
- Pet Assure: Specializes in preventive care coverage through their Mint Wellness plan, covering services like wellness visits and vaccinations.
Cost of Exotic Pet Insurance
Premiums vary based on factors like:
- Annual coverage amount
- Type of pet
- Local veterinary costs
For example, Nationwide’s plans start at under $21/month. MetLife and Nationwide offer accident and illness coverage, while Pet Assure focuses on preventive care.
Choosing the Right Exotic Pet Insurance
When selecting a policy, consider:
- Coverage limits and deductibles
- Reimbursement rates
- Specific conditions covered or excluded
- Premium costs
By understanding these factors and comparing available options, exotic pet owners can make informed decisions about their insurance needs.
