Cat Insurance: What is it and why does it matter?

Cat insurance (also known as pet insurance for cats or cat health insurance) helps cover unexpected veterinary bills that arise due to accidents, illnesses, or dental procedures. Since cat insurance kicks in to pay for surprise pet care costs, having this coverage means you no longer have to choose between your cat's well-being and your own financial health.

The best pet insurance for cats offers predictable premiums, customizable coverage, and optional wellness or dental protection that's tailored to your feline friend. Before you purchase cat insurance, compare plans based on annual coverage amounts, deductibles required, reimbursement levels, waiting periods, and exclusions.

What is cat insurance?

• Definition: Pet health insurance for cats (cat insurance) reimburses or directly covers veterinary costs for accidents and illnesses, and potentially preventative care.

• How cat insurance works:

- You pay a premium monthly or annually, which covers the cost of this important coverage

- A deductible applies before coverage starts. This amount can range from $0 to $2,000 or more, depending on the plan.

- Typically, the insurer reimburses a percentage (typically 70–90%) of eligible costs.

- After receiving vet care, you file a claim. Upon approval, you either get reimbursed or the insurance pays the vet.

Why it matters: Veterinary bills can quickly escalate to thousands of dollars. While you'll pay monthly for the privilege of having this important coverage, cat insurance offers financial protection and peace of mind.

How much does cat insurance cost per month?

• Typical range: Around $18–$32/month for accident & illness plans—based on factors like your cat's age, breed, location, and plan specifics.
• Key variables: Your cat’s age, where you live (e.g., pet insurance in Texas vs. elsewhere), deductible amount, reimbursement rate, and coverage limits.

What types of cat insurance plans are available?

• Accident-only: Cat insurance for accidents-only kicks in to pay for over injuries that result from accidents, such as broken bones or the accidental ingestion of poison.
• Accident & illness: This kind of cat insurance covers accidents plus illnesses like infections or cancer.
• Comprehensive (+ wellness): Comprehensive cat insurance with wellness coverage adds wellness/dental protection to an accident & illness plan.
• Wellness add-ons: Pet wellness coverage can pay for routine vet visits, vaccinations, spaying/neutering, dental cleanings, and more.

How do I choose the best pet insurance for cats?

The following tips can help you get the best cat health coverage you can afford:

• Purchase coverage early in your pet's life. Start early to avoid exclusions related to pre-existing conditions and lock in lower premiums.
• Compare plans. Decide on the right coverage—accident-only, accident and illness, comprehensive, or wellness add-on.
• Shop around for the best deal. Compare pet insurance quotes tailored to your cat’s age, breed, and location.
• Customize your plan. Select a plan with a reasonable monthly premium, but remember to customize your deductible and reimbursement level as well.
• Consider discounts, added benefits, and add-on coverage. Look for extras like multi-cat discounts, dental coverage, telehealth, and direct vet pay.
• Read the fine print. Understand waiting periods, age limits, and breed-specific exclusions.
• Know about the claims processes. Prioritize providers with fast claims processing and strong ratings for customer satisfaction.

*A 30-day money-back guarantee is not available if claims have been filed.