Pet insurance comparison
Tips on what to look out for when you compare pet insurance policies and offers.
When a pet falls ill or needs a visit to the vet, it can be expensive, so taking out pet insurance makes sense.
Shop around and do a pet insurance comparison. But remember, value is more important than price – so make sure you compare every aspect of pet insurance in your comparison, not just the cost.
The two types for comparison
Most providers of pet insurance offer two main types of cover. The names may differ but in essence, a ‘basic’ pet insurance policy will cover vets’ bills for a maximum period (usually one year), with a maximum claim per condition.
With a ‘premier’ pet insurance policy, there’s no time limit on reaching the maximum claim and this maximum may be higher than with the basic pet insurance.
Comparison tip: check time limits and maximum claims allowed
What to look for in your comparison
Compare what's covered?
Most plans cover your pets’ sickness and accidents – and some providers offer wider cover, such as holiday cancellation compensation and advertising and a reward if your pet is lost or stolen.
The levels of pet insurance cover may vary and some providers allow you to top up your basic or premier cover with additional features − but your comparison should always check the cover and maximum you can claim for:
- Vets’ bills
- Third Party liability
- Death of pet
- Advertising and reward if your pet is lost
- Boarding fees if you have to go into hospital
- Holiday cancellation
- Accidental damage
Comparison tip: check cover and maximum claim
Premiums and excess comparison
The premium you pay depends on a number of things, including the cover you choose. The excess (the amount you pay if you claim) can vary between different risks insured and from provider to provider.
Comparison tip: check the premiums and excess
Age limits comparison
Some pet insurance providers won’t insure pets above a certain age. LV= pet insurance has no upper age limit, apart from under the death from illness cover which stops at nine years for dogs and 11 for cats.
Comparison tip: watch age limits
Small print comparison
You should always do a comparison of the small print for exclusions – pre-existing conditions such as flea control may not be covered.
Comparison tip: watch out for what the small print says
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