Cost

How much does dog insurance cost per month?

The monthly premium for a pet insurance plan depends on the type of coverage selected. Our most popular plans for dogs start as low as $13/month. Get a quote today.

How much does cat insurance cost per month?

The monthly premium for a cat insurance plan depends on the type of coverage selected. Our most popular plans for cats start as low as $9/month. Get a quote today.

How much is pet insurance for multiple pets?

The monthly premium depends on the type of coverage selected. Our most popular coverage starts at around $90/month for two dogs, which includes a 5% multi-pet discount. Two cats on our most popular plan would cost about $42/month. Electing coverage for four or more pets will increase your discount to 10%. Get a quote today.

How much does exotic pet insurance cost per month?

The monthly premium for an exotic pet insurance plan depends on the type of pet and amount of coverage selected. Our most popular plans are about $20/month. Call for a quote: 844-244-3649.

How are my premiums determined?

Monthly premiums for new enrollments depend on your pet’s species, breed and age, the type of coverage selected and your ZIP code.

Pet insurance eligibility and availability

Is a veterinary exam required to enroll in pet insurance?

Typically, we do not require a veterinary exam to enroll. Depending on the plan selected and the age of your pet, a physical exam may be required for your pet within the prior 6-12 months. If we require a physical exam, we will advise you of this when you apply. We may also request medical records when you apply or after you submit a claim.

Claims

How do I submit a claim?

Visit your veterinarian and pay as usual. Then submit a claim on my.petinsurance.com.

How long will it take to process my claim?

Claims are typically completed within 5 days from the time we receive all necessary claim information; however, if medical records are deemed necessary, they may take additional time. We will notify you by email to confirm that your claim has been received and is in our system for processing.

You may check on the status of your claim by logging in at my.petinsurance.com. Claim information will be available within 48-72 hours from the date your claim is received.

How long do I have to file a claim?

We ask that you submit your claim within 90 days of your pet’s treatment for any condition.

Is there a limit to the number of claims I can submit in a year?

There is no limit on the number of claim submissions.

How will I receive reimbursements?

It's up to you, but we recommend electronic claim payments. You can set up electronic claim payments at my.petinsurance.com when you submit your claim. Otherwise, you can select to have a check mailed to you. Please note that reimbursement via electronic claim payments will be more expedient versus checks.

Coverage

What do the plans cover?

We offer nose-to-tail coverage for:

• Accidents, including broken bones, sprains, lacerations and poisoning

• Illnesses, including allergies, ear infections, arthritis, cancer and more

• Preventive care, including checkups, vaccinations and flea & tick prevention

Options vary based on plans and pet species, breed and age.

What does pet insurance not cover?

Exclusions are things that aren't covered by your plan, and all pet insurance providers have them. Some of our exclusions include breeding costs, cosmetic procedures (like tail docking), waste disposal, boarding/grooming and pre-existing conditions.

We want to make care accessible to as many pets as possible, which is why we try to keep exclusions to a minimum. Please see your policy for full details.

Are pre-existing conditions covered?

Any condition that began or was contracted, manifested or incurred before the effective date of the policy or during any waiting period is considered pre-existing and therefore not covered under our medical plans. For instance, a chronic condition like diabetes or skin allergies is pre-existing if it began before the effective date of the policy—but isn't if it began after the effective date.

If a condition has been noted as pre-existing and excluded from coverage, the condition may be eligible for coverage once the condition has been deemed cured by the attending veterinarian and your pet has been treatment-free for at least six months (including dietary or medical management). Chronic conditions or conditions that cannot be cured are not eligible for review.

What surgeries are covered in my pet's insurance plan?

Your insurance plan covers anything related to accidents or illness, including broken bone repair and removal of a foreign object, unless related to a pre-existing condition. Find the full list of coverage here.

Are there any caps on payouts?

The annual limit for reimbursement depends on the product and coverage level selected. See policy documents for details.

Are hereditary conditions covered?

Yes, as long as the condition has coverage under the particular policy or rider you have selected and there were no signs or symptoms prior to the policy effective date.

Is routine care covered?

In select plans, wellness coverage for routine care is available, including physical exams, vaccinations, flea & tick prevention and more.

Is there a waiting period after I sign up?

Yes. A 14-day waiting period applies, starting from the time your application is approved and we receive payment.

Effective dates may vary depending on your plan, your state or if you’re enrolling as part of a group or organization.

What is the annual deductible for pet medical insurance?

Annual deductible options as low as $100 are available on some plans. You can customize this to fit the best amount for your situation for each policy term. Most pet owners choose a $250 annual deductible.

Can I add a policy for a new pet to my existing policy?

You’ll need to enroll your new pet in a separate pet insurance policy but will be able to manage all your pets under one account.

Is prescription dog food covered by insurance?

Prescription food is covered under certain plan types and can be added to other plans with the purchase of an optional rider, as long as it is not related to a pre-existing condition or was being used prior to the policy effective date. Call our sales team at 844-244-3649 to learn more about prescription food coverage options.

Can I cancel my policy before the term is up?

Absolutely. You can cancel anytime. The easiest way is to go to my.petinsurance.com. Your state may also have a Free Look Period (a.k.a. Right to Examine and Return a Policy) in which you would have a limited time to get your money back. To qualify, you must not have filed a claim under the policy. Participating states require you to notify us of your choice to exercise the Free Look option within a specific time frame. Please read your policy for details. Terms may vary by state.

Can I change my pet insurance policy later?

You can add or reduce coverage only during your annual policy renewal period. Note: Certain coverage or product upgrades may require underwriting review.

What are the limitations on coverage and medical costs?

Depending on the plan you select, there could be an annual maximum on the reimbursement amounts received for your pet’s health conditions. Based upon the plan selected, there may be pre-set benefit allowances for each condition, otherwise there may be coverage based upon the percentage coverage you select. Remember that pre-existing conditions are not covered. Please review your plan details for more information.

Will you drop my pet from coverage because of age?

Never. To get the best coverage options, enroll your pet when they are young and healthy, and be sure to keep your policy continually in force (translation: don't let it lapse or expire). We promise not to drop your pet because of age. After all, we're pet lovers, too!

Will all my pets be covered under a single policy?

You’ll need to enroll each of your pets in a separate pet insurance policy but will be able to manage all your pets under one account.

Using pet insurance

Can I use any veterinarian?

Yes. You’re free to use any licensed veterinarian, including specialists and emergency veterinarians, anywhere in the world.

How do reimbursements work?

Once you’ve met your annual deductible, if applicable, we’ll pay you back for covered veterinary expenses according to the reimbursement percentage you chose for your plan, up to the category maximum you selected.

Say you have a $250 annual deductible with $5,000 in accident coverage at 90% reimbursement. Now let’s say your dog broke a leg and the vet bill was $2,500, of which $2,400 was covered (we don’t cover non-medical things like tax and waste disposal). After your deductible and 90% are applied, we’d reimburse you $1,935, leaving you with $3,065 in remaining accident coverage for the remainder of your policy term.

How do I file a claim?

File a claim in just three easy steps:

1. Visit any licensed veterinarian in the United States or anywhere else in the world.

2. Quickly and easily submit claims online at my.petinsurance.com for things like illnesses, injuries or emergency care.

3. Receive reimbursements for eligible vet costs covered under your policy terms.

Where is my insurance accepted?

Your insurance can be used for treatment at any licensed veterinary clinic worldwide, including treatment from specialists and emergency care facilities, as long as there were no signs or symptoms of the condition prior to the policy effective date. Remember, this is a reimbursement-based insurance plan, so you pay the bill and submit a claim for the services to be reimbursed.

What can I use dog insurance for?

Pet insurance policies reimburse you for your dog’s veterinary care—including medical costs, wellness and even hereditary conditions, as long as there were no signs or symptoms of the condition prior to the policy effective date. You’re free to use any licensed veterinarian in the United States or anywhere else in the world. Find the full list of coverage here.

What can I use cat insurance for?

Pet insurance policies reimburse you for your cat’s veterinary care—including medical costs, wellness and even hereditary conditions, as long as there were no signs or symptoms of the condition prior to the policy effective date. You’re free to use any licensed veterinarian in the United States or anywhere else in the world. Find the full list of coverage here.

What can I use bird, rabbit, reptile and other pet insurance for?

Pet insurance plans cover medical services and medical treatment from any licensed veterinarian in the United States or anywhere else in the world, as long as there were no signs or symptoms of the condition prior to the policy effective date. Simply submit a claim and we’ll reimburse you for eligible expenses. Find the full list of coverage here.

Can I add a pet?

Yes. You can add as many pets to your account as you'd like, and we even offer a multi-pet discount! You’ll need to enroll your new pet in a separate pet insurance policy but will be able to manage all your pets under one account.

How do I cancel my plan?

If at any point in your policy you need to cancel your insurance plan, contact Nationwide Member Care at 844-244-3649.

How can I view my policy?

Sign into your account on or review the documents provided at each term of the policy.

I haven't received my reimbursement, now what?

You can check the status of your claim at any time on your member portal at my.petinsurance.com.

How do I edit my billing/payment info?

You can change your billing and payment information at my.petinsurance.com.

Shopping for pet insurance

How does Petco | Nationwide Pet Insurance compare to other pet insurance offerings?

A lot of pet insurance companies have come and gone. The key to picking one you can count on is stability and experience. Petco and Nationwide have been building trust with pets and families for over 100 years combined. Together we offer:

• The most customizable plan that makes caring for your pet more affordable.

• Protection for more pets than any other carrier, because birds, rabbits and reptiles are family members too.

• The ability to enroll your pet and purchase insurance on petco.com.

• The most comprehensive coverage for your pets. Proudly providing pet parents with the kind of coverage we want for our own pets.

What should I look for in an insurance company?

The best pet insurance for you is one that provides a level of coverage you’re comfortable with and fits your budget for monthly premiums. When choosing your plan, consider how much medical care (for accidents and illnesses) is typical for your pet’s breed and whether you want wellness coverage for preventive care.

How much does pet medical care typically cost?

The amount of coverage you choose depends on your budget and each of your pet’s different needs. Factors to consider include how much medical care is typical for each pet’s breed and whether you want wellness coverage for expected costs like checkups and vaccinations.

Why do I need insurance for my pet?

As a pet parent, you want to make sure providing the best care possible for your pet doesn’t become a financial burden. Pet insurance policies reimburse you for your pet’s medical care so you can focus on keeping your pet healthy—not on what it costs, so that you are ready and able to help your pet whenever something happens.

When is the best time to buy pet insurance?

It’s a good idea to enroll your pet in a pet insurance plan as early as possible, before chronic conditions develop or your pet needs any medical care that could put limitations on your coverage.

Do indoor cats need insurance?

Even indoor cats can get sick or hurt. Illnesses like kidney disease and thyroid problems affect many cats, and injuries can happen unexpectedly, even inside your home.

Which types of exotic pets are covered?

• Chinchilla

• Gerbil

• Goat

• Guinea Pig

• Hamster

• Hedgehog

• Mini Pig

• Mouse

• Potbellied Pig

• Rat

• Sugar Glider

• Rabbit

• Ferret

• African Grey

• Amazon

• Canary

• Cockatiel

• Cockatoo

• Conure

• Finch

• Lory

• Lovebird

• Macaw

• Mynah

• Parakeet

• Parrotlet

• Toucan

• Amphibians, including toads

• Bearded Dragon

• Chameleon

• Frilled Dragon

• Gecko

• Iguana

• Monitor Lizard

• Snake

• Tegu

• Tortoise

• Uromastyx

• Water Dragon

Some species of pets are not eligible for coverage. These species include but are not limited to:

• Venomous or poisonous species

• Endangered or threatened species

• Any species that is illegal to own under applicable state or federal law

• Hybrids of domesticated pets with a wild species

Can a senior pet still get coverage?

It’s always a good idea to have a pet insurance plan, no matter your pet’s age. If you’re enrolling your older pet in a medical plan for the first time, certain things may be excluded from coverage as pre-existing.

Are there any conditions that would make my pet ineligible for enrollment?

We want to protect as many pets as possible, but there are some conditions that may make your pet ineligible for enrollment. For instance, you must call to confirm if a cat who has been diagnosed with feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is eligible for coverage.

What are pre-existing conditions?

A pre-existing condition means any condition that began or was contracted, manifested or incurred before the effective date of your policy or during any waiting period, whether or not the condition was discovered, diagnosed or treated. A chronic condition is a pre-existing condition unless it began after the effective date of your policy. To learn more, check out this helpful video.

Some examples of pre-existing conditions:

1. A veterinarian diagnoses the need for a thorough dental cleaning. If your veterinarian indicated this cleaning is recommended prior to the start of your policy or during the waiting period, dental tartar/periodontitis would be considered pre-existing.

2. Your pet is limping prior to enrollment. A few months into your policy, a veterinarian diagnoses hip dysplasia and notes it in your pet’s medical records. Hip dysplasia would be considered pre-existing.