Pet Insurance in the USA

Pet insurance in the United States has grown steadily as veterinary costs continue to rise and more pet parents look for ways to manage unexpected bills. At its core, pet insurance is designed to reimburse owners for part of the expenses related to accidents, illnesses, and, in some cases, preventive care. The idea is simple: you pay a monthly premium, and when your pet needs care, you can file a claim to recover a percentage of the bill. But understanding the details, from coverage options to exclusions, is essential before choosing the right plan.

How Pet Insurance Works

Most policies in the U.S. work on a reimbursement basis. You take your pet to any licensed veterinarian, pay for the treatment upfront, and then submit a claim to the insurance provider. Depending on the policy, you’ll get back between 70% and 90% of eligible costs, with some companies offering up to 100%. Key factors to understand include the deductible (what you pay before reimbursement kicks in), reimbursement rate, annual coverage limits, and waiting periods before coverage begins.

Coverage Options

Pet Insurance Comparison

Accident-only coverage is the most basic level, paying for emergencies like broken bones, swallowed objects, or poisoning. It’s usually the cheapest option and is ideal if you only want protection against sudden accidents. Accident and illness coverage is the most common type, covering everything from cancer and diabetes to arthritis, hereditary conditions, dental illnesses, and behavioral issues. Many pet owners prefer this because it offers broader protection. Wellness coverage, typically offered as an add-on, helps with routine expenses such as annual checkups, vaccinations, microchipping, and dental cleanings.

Costs and Exclusions

On average, monthly premiums are around $51 for dogs and $26 for cats if you choose a $5,000 annual coverage plan. For unlimited coverage, the averages rise to about $71 for dogs and $37 for cats. These costs vary depending on your pet’s breed, age, health history, and where you live. Exclusions are an important detail: most plans don’t cover pre-existing conditions, elective procedures, grooming, or breeding-related expenses. However, some companies will cover curable pre-existing conditions if your pet has been symptom-free for a set period, usually 12 months.

What to Look For in a Policy

When evaluating plans, consider the scope of coverage, how flexible deductibles and reimbursement rates are, and whether annual limits can be customized. Check waiting periods carefully—some policies make you wait weeks or even months for coverage on certain conditions like cruciate ligament injuries. Service quality matters too, so look for providers with fast claims processing, 24/7 support, and user-friendly mobile apps. Finally, always review exclusions and breed-specific limitations, and take advantage of discounts if you have multiple pets or qualify through military or employer programs.

Best Pet Insurance Companies in 2025

ASPCA Pet Health Insurance

ASPCA is a long-established name offering customizable plans for dogs, cats, and even horses in some states. Its accident and illness coverage includes diagnostics, surgeries, hereditary conditions, behavioral issues, and dental care. A standout feature is that there’s no upper age limit for enrollment. While claims can take up to 30 days to process, ASPCA offers flexible options, covers alternative therapies, and has a solid reputation for reliability. The downside is that wellness coverage requires an add-on, and claims processing can feel slow compared to some competitors.

Pets Best

Often ranked as one of the best all-around providers, Pets Best is known for low costs, fast claims, and excellent service. It has multiple plan tiers, including budget-friendly accident-only options, plus wellness add-ons. A unique advantage is the 24/7 vet helpline and the option for direct vet payments in some cases. Claims are usually processed within two days, which is faster than many competitors. Waiting periods are short—just 3 days for accidents—but it’s important to note that chronic conditions like diabetes may not be covered unless you enroll early.

Trupanion

Trupanion stands out because it pays vets directly through its Trupanion Express system, meaning you don’t have to cover big bills upfront. It also has no payout caps, offering unlimited coverage with a flat 90% reimbursement rate. Coverage is broad, including hereditary conditions and alternative therapies. However, the trade-off is higher premiums compared to most other providers, and there’s no wellness plan option. Still, for pet parents worried about expensive emergencies, Trupanion’s direct payment system is a major advantage.

Lemonade

A newer player in the market, Lemonade is tech-driven and budget-friendly, with plans starting as low as $12 a month. It’s available in 39 states and Washington, D.C., and is especially popular with younger pet owners for its digital-first approach and quick claims processing. Lemonade covers accidents, illnesses, behavioral therapy, and hereditary conditions, with wellness add-ons for routine care. A unique feature is that it donates unclaimed premiums to charities chosen by policyholders. The main drawbacks are limited state availability and the lack of direct vet payments.

Embrace

Embrace is highly flexible, offering customizable deductibles, reimbursement rates, and annual limits. It’s also known for its Healthy Pet Deductible, which reduces your deductible by $50 every year you don’t file a claim. Coverage includes hereditary conditions, behavioral therapy, and alternative treatments, with wellness add-ons available. Embrace is especially attractive for military families because it underwrites USAA’s pet insurance and offers a 25% discount for members. The downsides are that exam fees aren’t always covered, and premiums can rise after frequent claims.

Recommendations

Pets Best is the best overall option for most pet owners thanks to its low premiums, fast claims, and comprehensive coverage. Trupanion is the best choice if you want direct payments to vets and unlimited coverage with no payout caps. Lemonade is ideal for budget-conscious owners who want affordable, tech-friendly coverage. ASPCA is a great choice if you want flexibility or need coverage for unique pets like horses. Embrace is perfect for families who want flexibility and added savings, particularly military households.

Tips for Getting the Best Value

Always get multiple quotes because premiums can vary significantly depending on your pet’s breed, age, and location. Enroll your pet while they’re young and healthy to avoid pre-existing condition exclusions. Read the fine print carefully, especially around hereditary or chronic conditions. If you want help with routine costs, calculate whether wellness add-ons are worth the extra monthly fee. And finally, check reviews and owner experiences—many pet parents share useful feedback online about claims speed and customer service.

Pet insurance in the U.S. is ultimately about peace of mind. Veterinary care is advancing, but it comes with higher costs. The right policy helps ensure you can give your pet the best care without worrying about draining your savings. Whether you choose Pets Best, Trupanion, Lemonade, ASPCA, or Embrace, the key is finding a plan that fits your pet’s needs and your financial comfort zone.