Is Pet Insurance Worth It?

Did you know only 2% of American pet parents have insurance for their furry friend? That’s because there’s a lot of misinformation floating around about what these policies can provide—and just how much they can protect your cat or dog (not to mention your wallet) if something goes wrong (You don’t need us to tell you that pets cost a lot of money…)

You might think that pet insurance is a luxury, or only something that you’d need for an animal companion who is older, or who has an illness, which is why you might not have considered getting pet insurance before—so we’ll break down a few reasons why you should sign up your cat or dog with pet health insurance.

Pets cost a lot of money

Having a cat or dog might not be as expensive as having a human baby, but prices can add up quickly.

Our four-legged friends need food, toys, treats, and regular medical care. For example, basic supplies for your dog could cost you $1,000 a year, easily—before any emergency trips to the vet. Cats are a bit more affordable, averaging at around $600 a year.

Pets need more healthcare than you think

Did you know that an exam and treatment for a dog’s broken leg can cost well over $1,000?

Your cat or dog might face far more major, expensive medical issues in the future, from diabetes to hyperthyroidism to cancer. And even a simple emergency room visit after your pet eats the wrong thing can land you with a staggering bill. Don’t put yourself in the horrible position of choosing between your pet’s health, and your finances.

Also, it pays to purchase pet insurance sooner rather than later. No policy will cover costs associated with care for a health issue your pet already has. You won’t be denied coverage altogether, you just won’t be able to make claims on treatments related to that pre-existing condition. So, the earlier you get your pet signed up, the more coverage you’ll receive down the line.

Pet health insurance covers more than you probably realize

Pet insurance, like the coverage offered by Lemonade, gives you different options to customize your coverage.

This includes add-ons that cover things you’re probably already paying for, like vaccinations, annual check-ups, and routine tests to make sure your canine or feline stay in tip-top shape.

Vets recommend health insurance

While we can’t speak for every vet, it’s fair to say that many do recommend pet insurance. 

Lemonade’s own Vet Consultant Stephanie Liff puts it this way: “I always tell my clients that I want to remove financial anxiety from their medical decisions.” She says that at the end of the day, “insurance helps [pet owners] know they can afford any medical issues that arise in the future.”

Now we know what you might be thinking: Is it really worth it to pay a premium for years… only to never make a claim?

Depending on which pet plan and add-ons you pick, you’ll find your pet’s insurance actually works a lot like human health insurance, in that you’ll find yourself using it often—not just when there’s a major medical calamity or a huge pet medical bill.

If you’d like a whole lot more information on how pet health insurance works—we’ve got the ultimate guide for you. 

See if pet insurance is right for your furry friend. Applying is free, fast, and fun!