How Much Is Pet Insurance for Dogs?

Pet insurance for dogs can vary significantly based on the type of coverage you choose. On average, accident and illness coverage costs $56.30 per month or $675.61 per year. If you opt for accident-only coverage, the average cost drops to $17.01 per month. For comprehensive coverage that includes wellness, expect to pay around $105.28 per month.

Average Cost of Pet Insurance by Dog Breed

Here are some average monthly costs for popular dog breeds:

• French Bulldog: $103.04 (Accident & Illness), $119.04 (Accident, Illness & Wellness)
• Labrador Retriever: $61.98 (Accident & Illness), $77.98 (Accident, Illness & Wellness)
• Golden Retriever: $62.97 (Accident & Illness), $78.97 (Accident, Illness & Wellness)
• German Shepherd: $61.00 (Accident & Illness), $77.00 (Accident, Illness & Wellness)
• Standard Poodle: $53.72 (Accident & Illness), $69.72 (Accident, Illness & Wellness)
• Dachshund: $46.57 (Accident & Illness), $62.57 (Accident, Illness & Wellness)
• Rottweiler: $104.69 (Accident & Illness), $120.69 (Accident, Illness & Wellness)
• English Bulldog: $106.37 (Accident & Illness), $122.37 (Accident, Illness & Wellness)
• Beagle: $57.25 (Accident & Illness), $73.25 (Accident, Illness & Wellness)
• Mixed Breed (10-20 lbs.): $25.06 (Accident & Illness), $41.06 (Accident, Illness & Wellness)

How Much Is Pet Insurance for Cats?

Pet insurance for cats is generally less expensive than for dogs. On average, accident and illness coverage costs $31.94 per month or $383.30 per year. Accident-only coverage is even more affordable at $9.68 per month, while comprehensive coverage including wellness averages $52.17 per month.

Average Cost of Pet Insurance by Cat Breed

Here are some average monthly costs for popular cat breeds:

• Ragdoll: $27.13 (Accident & Illness), $43.13 (Accident, Illness & Wellness)
• Maine Coon: $31.30 (Accident & Illness), $47.30 (Accident, Illness & Wellness)
• Persian: $30.32 (Accident & Illness), $46.32 (Accident, Illness & Wellness)
• Exotic Shorthair: $28.01 (Accident & Illness), $44.01 (Accident, Illness & Wellness)
• Devon Rex: $29.85 (Accident & Illness), $45.85 (Accident, Illness & Wellness)
• British Shorthair: $27.13 (Accident & Illness), $43.13 (Accident, Illness & Wellness)
• Abyssinian: $29.85 (Accident & Illness), $45.85 (Accident, Illness & Wellness)
• Scottish Fold: $27.13 (Accident & Illness), $43.13 (Accident, Illness & Wellness)
• Sphynx: $31.30 (Accident & Illness), $47.30 (Accident, Illness & Wellness)
• Mixed Breed: $24.28 (Accident & Illness), $30.28 (Accident, Illness & Wellness)

How Is the Cost of Pet Insurance Determined?

The cost of pet insurance is influenced by several factors:

• Type of Coverage: Accident and illness insurance covers a wide range of issues, while accident-only insurance is more limited. Adding a wellness plan can increase costs but covers routine care.
• Amount of Coverage: Plans with higher limits and reimbursement rates cost more. Most plans have annual limits, and higher limits mean higher premiums.
• Deductible: Higher deductibles generally lower premiums. Deductibles can be annual or per-incident.
• Species and Breed: Dogs typically cost more to insure than cats. Certain breeds are more expensive due to breed-specific health issues.
• Age: Older pets are more expensive to insure due to increased health risks.
• Gender: Male pets often cost more to insure than females.
• Location: Veterinary costs vary by region, affecting insurance premiums.

Is Pet Insurance Worth It?

Pet insurance can be a valuable investment, especially if it helps you manage unexpected veterinary costs. Consider whether you could cover the cost of these common vet visits on your own:

• Ear infection: $50-$100
• Hospitalization: $600-$3,000
• Emergency surgery: $1,500-$7,000
• Chemotherapy: $3,500+
• Dental cleaning with anesthesia: $450-$1,000
• X-rays: $75-$500

For example, if your pet needs surgery costing $5,000, pet insurance with an 80% reimbursement rate could cover $4,000, leaving you to pay $1,000. Without insurance, you might face difficult decisions regarding your pet’s care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Get Pet Insurance for Older Dogs and Cats?

Yes, but premiums are typically higher for older pets due to increased health risks.

Can You Get Pet Insurance for Exotic Pets?

Some insurers offer coverage for exotic pets, but options may be limited.

Does Pet Insurance Cover Dental Work?

Dental coverage varies by policy. Some plans include dental work, while others may require an additional wellness plan.

The Bottom Line

Pet insurance can help cover the cost of essential veterinary care, making it a wise investment in your pet’s health. However, even with insurance, you’re still responsible for part of your pet’s medical expenses. Setting a pet care budget that includes insurance premiums and building up an emergency fund can help you handle unexpected costs.