Pet Insurance
Learn how pet insurance works and how it can help with vet bills, emergencies and unexpected costs.
What is pet insurance?
Pet Insurance provides financial protection against unexpected costs relating to your pet(s). Insurance claims can cover certain veterinary bills for accidents, illnesses and injuries.
Pet Insurance can also help cover financial costs if your pet is lost, stolen or if they die.
Third-party cover can protect you in case your pet harms someone else or their property.
Ready to get a free quote and compare your pet insurance options?
Types of pet insurance
The best pet insurance policy is one that gives you enough cover for your pet’s needs, and this will vary from one pet to another. Things like their age, species and any pre‑existing conditions can all affect which type of cover is most suitable. There are different types and levels of pet insurance available, so it’s worth comparing options to find the right fit.
Lifetime cover
Covers illnesses and injuries, including ongoing conditions, up to an annual limit that resets each year, with new illnesses covered on renewal after a typical 14‑day waiting period.
Accident‑only insurance
Covers vet costs for injuries caused by accidents only, usually with a set limit per accident and no waiting period, but doesn’t cover new illnesses at renewal.
Annual (time‑limited) insurance
Covers illnesses and injuries for up to 12 months per condition, with a limit per condition; once 12 months pass or the limit is reached, that condition is no longer covered, and there’s usually a 14‑day wait before claiming.
Maximum benefit insurance
Covers illnesses and injuries up to a fixed pot of money per condition, with no time limit, but once that limit is used, that condition is no longer covered; typically has around a 14‑day waiting period.
Instant cover pet insurance
Provides immediate cover for accidents (and sometimes illnesses), with no waiting period, though what’s covered and the limits depend on the specific policy, and only some will cover new illnesses at renewal.
What does pet insurance usually cover?
Veterinary fees for accident or illness
Prescription medications
Overseas travel
Support for missing or stolen pets
Third party liability
Theft or straying
Euthanasia, cremation and burial
Emergency boarding fees
Hugo’s helpful notes:
The scope of coverage is dependent on the insurance provider you choose. Please carefully read insurance policy wording to understand what is covered and what is excluded in your pet insurance policy.
The insurance comparison service here is being provided by Seopa Ltd, who are regulated and authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA FRN 313860). Protect Line Ltd will receive a commission for introductions made to insurers which result in a policy being purchased.
FAQs
Got questions about pet insurance? Here are some of the most common ones.
How can I get cheap pet insurance?
The insurance comparison service here is being provided by Seopa Ltd, who are regulated and authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA FRN 313860). Protect Line Ltd will receive a commission for introductions made to insurers, which result in a policy being purchased.
Read moreShould I pay my pet insurance monthly or annually?
It is important to note that pet insurance policies are annual, however you are often given the choice to pay monthly. If you pay monthly and make a claim before the annual period is up, you will be required to make the remaining payments (or these will be deducted from any monetary claim). Your pet insurance premium will be cheaper if you pay annually, so it can be a good idea to do this if you can afford it.
Read moreWhat details do I need to get a pet insurance quote?
You will need to provide your pet’s details, such as the name, gender, age and breed. You’ll be asked about your pet’s medical history, such as any known pre-existing conditions, vaccinations or whether they’ve been neutered. Your basic details will also be necessary.
Read moreWhat is not covered with pet insurance?
Routine treatments such as vaccinations, worming and flea treatments, nail clipping or grooming, neutering/spaying, and routine dental work are rarely covered. Pre-existing illness or injury will not be covered, nor will pregnancy or costs related to giving birth.
Read moreWhy should I choose Protect Line?
We’re a non-advised broker specialising in life insurance, with a friendly team who listen and explain things clearly. We don’t push you to choose a certain insurer or product, just honest answers, clear quotes from our panel of top insurers, and help finding what’s right for you. You make your own decision on what’s best for you.
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