How pet insurance works
Most pet insurance pays you back after you pay the vet. You choose a deductible (what you pay first each year), a reimbursement rate (often 70% to 90%) and sometimes a yearly limit. Your monthly premium depends on your pet's age, breed, where you live and the plan you pick.
What it usually covers
- Accident-only plans: injuries like swallowed objects or broken bones
- Accident and illness plans: injuries plus illnesses, from infections to cancer
- Wellness add-ons: routine care like vaccines and checkups (often not worth it on their own)
Most plans do not cover pre-existing conditions, so signing up while your pet is young and healthy matters.
What it costs
Rover's 2026 report puts insurance for many adult dogs at about $520 to $1,230 a year. Cats are usually cheaper. Prices rise as pets age.
A simple way to decide
- It may be worth it if a $3,000 surprise bill would be hard to pay, your breed is prone to health problems, or you want peace of mind.
- You might skip it if you can comfortably cover a large bill from savings and you're disciplined about keeping a pet emergency fund.
Either way, keep some savings. Even with insurance you'll pay the deductible and your share of each bill. See our pet emergency fund guide.
Plans and prices vary. Read the policy details, especially exclusions and waiting periods, before you buy.
Know exactly what your pet costs.
Our pet expense tracker adds up food, vet bills and supplies for you, month by month. Instant download.
Try the numbers for your pet
Our free pet cost calculator works it out in seconds. No sign-up.
Open the calculatorQuestions people ask
Does pet insurance cover pre-existing conditions?
Usually not. That's why many owners sign up while their pet is young and healthy.
How much is pet insurance per month?
It varies by pet, age, breed, location and plan. Many adult dog plans cost roughly $45 to $100 a month, and cat plans are usually less.
Is pet insurance better than saving money?
They do different jobs. Insurance helps with very large bills; savings covers deductibles and smaller surprises. Many owners use both.
Save this for later.
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The Paw Plan shares general information, not veterinary advice. Every pet is different, so check with your vet about your pet's health, diet and care.
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Read the guide →How much does it cost to own a dog?
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Read the guide →How much does a cat cost per year?
Cats are often cheaper than dogs, but the costs still add up. Here's a realistic look at the first year and every year after.
Read the guide →One easy pet-care tip a week.
Short, practical and friendly. Join free and get our printable pet emergency contact card right away.
