)
)
Kat Tretina is a personal finance writer specializing in debt repayment and insurance.
Previously, she worked in public relations within the pharmaceutical industry before switching to non-profit work. After struggling to repay her own student loan debt and seeing firsthand how complex the financial aid and repayment system is, she began writing to share what she learned so other people could better manage their loans.
For the past seven years, she’s been freelancing for major financial publications, focusing her work on helping people understand their financial options. Kat double-majored in English and Communications at Elizabethtown College, and she went on to earn her master’s at West Chester University. She has also earned certifications in student loan counseling and financial education.
)
Sara Getman is an Associate Editor at Insurify and has been with the company since 2022. Prior to joining Insurify, Sara completed her undergraduate degree in English Literature at Simmons University in Boston. At Simmons, she was the Editor-in-Chief for Sidelines Magazine (a literary and art publication), and wrote creative non-fiction.
Outside of work, Sara is an avid reader, and loves rock climbing, yoga, and crocheting.
)
Corporate communications director for Insurance Information Institute
20+ years in insurance and communications
As Director, Corporate Communications for Triple-I, Mark serves as the non-profit’s national spokesperson, sharing information and education on a wide array of insurance issues.
Updated
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Table of contents
Whether your Mr. Whiskers is a Maine coon, a Russian blue, or a stunning domestic shorthair, you want the best for your cat. But when a medical emergency pops up, the veterinary bills can be substantial.
A basic viral infection can rack up hundreds, a broken leg can cost $2,000 or more, and more serious issues, like feline cancer treatments, can be $5,000 or more.
Luckily, pet insurance tends to be cheaper for cats than for dogs, so you can get accident and illness protection for $35 per month on average.[1] These policies can alleviate some of the cost so you can get your cat the medical treatment it needs without racking up credit card debt or depleting your savings.
Here’s what you need to know about pet insurance for cats and how to find the best coverage.
Standard pet insurance policies don’t typically include preventative care coverage.
Accident-only policies, best for senior cats and owners on a budget, average $110 per year.
Reimbursement percentages, how much of the veterinary bill your insurer will cover after the deductible, usually range from 70% to 90%.
Best pet insurance for cats
The best pet insurance for your cat will depend on your cat’s age, breed, health history, and your budget. But some pet insurance companies truly stand out as excellent options for cat owners due to their customer service, easy claims processes, and short reimbursement times.
Here are some great pet insurance companies for your cat.
Figo: Best for reimbursement
Average monthly quote: $28
Figo offers an affordable cat insurance plan with coverage that includes holistic and alternative care, like acupuncture and chiropractic care. Cat parents can either design a custom plan or choose between three comprehensive plans that vary in annual and maximum lifetime benefits. Figo also provides optional vet exam fees and wellness coverages.
Figo offers reimbursement rates of 70%, 80%, 90%, and 100%, and you’ll only have to wait one day for coverage to kick in for injuries caused by an accident.
Option for 100% reimbursement
Multi-pet discount of 5%
Chiropractic care and acupuncture included
Doesn’t cover most parasites
Doesn’t cover prescription food
Six-month waiting period for orthopedic conditions
Embrace: Best for multiple pets
Average monthly quote: $28
Embrace’s accident and illness plan includes coverage for cancer and congenital and genetic conditions. The cat health insurance plan covers prescriptions, dental diseases, diagnostic testing, and more. Embrace also lets pet owners add a wellness plan for routine care, like spaying or neutering, annual checkups, and routine blood tests.
The insurer offers a 10% discount for policyholders with multiple pets. You can buy coverage for kittens as young as 6 weeks old. The accident and illness plan can cover cats until they turn 15, while the accident plan covers cats 15 and older.
Multi-pet discount of 10%
Covers alternative therapies
Deductible can range from $100 to $1,000
Pets ages 15 and older only eligible for accident coverage
Prescription food not covered under accident and illness plan
Limit of $650 for wellness care through the wellness plan
Trupanion: Best for no payout limits
Average monthly quote: $30
Trupanion offers a pet insurance policy with a $0 deductible option, but you can select a deductible of up to $1,000. The payout limit is uncapped.
Trupanion’s coverage includes hereditary and congenital conditions, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, advanced dentistry, and unexpected injuries. But you won’t find coverage for pre-existing conditions, exam visits, or wellness care.
Option for $0 deductible
Pays your vet directly
No limits on payouts
No coverage for vet exam fees
Doesn’t offer routine care options
One-time administration fee to set up policy
Pets Best: Best for direct vet payments
Average monthly quote: $19
Pets Best offers accident and illness plans that cover congenital, hereditary, and chronic conditions. The company also offers accident-only plans. Pets Best also includes coverage for prescriptions and dental diseases, which other companies may not. Add-on wellness plans are available and cover routine care like vaccinations, deworming, and FeLV screenings.
Deductible ranges between $50 and $1,000
Coverage for congenital, hereditary, and chronic conditions
Company can pay vet directly if vet allows it
No parasite testing or treatment coverage
May be eligible only for an accident-only policy if your pet has severe pre-existing chronic conditions
No 100% reimbursement option
Spot: Best for senior cats
Average monthly quote: $20
If you have a senior cat, Spot’s plans can reimburse you for 90% of eligible veterinary expenses. Spot plans also have no upper age limit for enrolling your cat, though the older your pet, the more you’ll likely pay for pet insurance coverage.
Spot offers a wide range of options for different deductibles, annual limits, and reimbursement rates, including unlimited coverage for your cat’s insurance plan. Pet parents can choose the best plan for their cat and make adjustments to these features to lock in a plan that suits their monthly budget. Coverage options include accident-only and accident and illness plans as well as an optional preventative care plan.
Multi-pet discount of 10%
Annual coverage limits range from $2,500 to unlimited
Covers microchip costs
Waiting period of 14 days
Company won’t pay vet directly
No 100% reimbursement rate option
Compare pet insurance companies
Reimbursement % The percentage of costs your provider will pay for a covered event, after you’ve paid your deductible. 70%–90% | Reimbursement % The percentage of costs your provider will pay for a covered event, after you’ve paid your deductible. 90% | Reimbursement % The percentage of costs your provider will pay for a covered event, after you’ve paid your deductible. 70%–90% | Reimbursement % The percentage of costs your provider will pay for a covered event, after you’ve paid your deductible. 70%–90% | Reimbursement % The percentage of costs your provider will pay for a covered event, after you’ve paid your deductible. 70%–100% |
Payout limits The maximum amount your provider will pay for covered events. $2,500–Unlimited | Payout limits The maximum amount your provider will pay for covered events. Unlimited | Payout limits The maximum amount your provider will pay for covered events. $5,000–Unlimited | Payout limits The maximum amount your provider will pay for covered events. $5,000–$30,000 | Payout limits The maximum amount your provider will pay for covered events. $5,000–Unlimited |
Deductibles The amount you must pay towards a covered event before your coverage kicks in. $100–$1,000 | Deductibles The amount you must pay towards a covered event before your coverage kicks in. $0 to $950 | Deductibles The amount you must pay towards a covered event before your coverage kicks in. $50–$1,000 | Deductibles The amount you must pay towards a covered event before your coverage kicks in. $100–$1,000 | Deductibles The amount you must pay towards a covered event before your coverage kicks in. $100–$750 |
Curable pre-existing conditions CoveredPre-existing conditions refer to conditions your pet has shown documented symptoms of before your policy’s waiting period is over. Some companies still cover these conditions if they’re deemed “curable” and haven’t shown symptoms for a specified period of time that varies by insurer. | Curable pre-existing conditions Not coveredPre-existing conditions refer to conditions your pet has shown documented symptoms of before your policy’s waiting period is over. Some companies still cover these conditions if they’re deemed “curable” and haven’t shown symptoms for a specified period of time that varies by insurer. | Curable pre-existing conditions CoveredPre-existing conditions refer to conditions your pet has shown documented symptoms of before your policy’s waiting period is over. Some companies still cover these conditions if they’re deemed “curable” and haven’t shown symptoms for a specified period of time that varies by insurer. | Curable pre-existing conditions CoveredPre-existing conditions refer to conditions your pet has shown documented symptoms of before your policy’s waiting period is over. Some companies still cover these conditions if they’re deemed “curable” and haven’t shown symptoms for a specified period of time that varies by insurer. | Curable pre-existing conditions CoveredPre-existing conditions refer to conditions your pet has shown documented symptoms of before your policy’s waiting period is over. Some companies still cover these conditions if they’re deemed “curable” and haven’t shown symptoms for a specified period of time that varies by insurer. |
How cat insurance works
Pet insurance works differently from other forms of coverage. When you shop for a policy, you can choose a coverage limit, reimbursement level, and deductible amount. Here’s how these options work together:[2]
Coverage limits: When you purchase coverage, you can choose an annual or lifetime limit. This is the maximum amount your insurer will reimburse you for your cat’s treatment for a covered condition. Limits can range from $2,500 to $10,000 or more.
Reimbursement percentages: Insurance companies usually cover a percentage of your cat’s care. For example, if your cat needs orthopedic surgery costing $5,000, your insurer may cover anywhere from 70% to 90% of the cost. The higher the percentage, the more your premiums will be.
Deductible: The deductible is how much you pay before your insurer starts covering your cat’s treatment. The higher your deductible, the lower your pet insurance premiums.
For example, say you have a Maine coon. These cats are prone to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a heart condition that causes the muscle walls in the heart to thicken. It can cost thousands in tests for your veterinarian to diagnose this condition, and ongoing treatments can be quite expensive, too.
For the sake of this example, say the total of X-rays, blood tests, and medication is $2,000. Here’s how much you’d get reimbursed based on two different insurance plans:
Insurance Plan A: This plan may be a good choice for someone looking to balance coverage with affordability. It has a $500 deductible and will cover up to 70% of your covered expenses. Deduct $500 from the $2,000 total, and your insurer will cover 70% of the remaining $1,500, reimbursing you $1,050.
Insurance Plan B: This plan’s premiums are nearly three times the cost of Plan A, but it could be useful for people who want more coverage when an emergency occurs. This plan has a $100 deductible and will cover 90% of your covered expenses. Deduct $100 from the $2,000 total, and your insurer will cover 90% of the remaining $1,900, reimbursing you $1,710.
Plan Details | Insurance Plan A | Insurance Plan B |
---|---|---|
Monthly premium | $25.98 | $72.56 |
Deductible | $500 | $100 |
Reimbursement percentage | 70% | 90% |
Reimbursement amount | $1,050 | $1,710 |
Types of pet insurance coverage for cats
As a cat owner, you likely have different coverage needs than a dog owner. Cats tend to need fewer veterinary visits, and they have different health risks. Based on your cat’s habits and your budget, you may need the following coverage:
Accident and illness
Sometimes referred to as whole medical or major medical coverage, accident and illness policies cover the diagnostic fees and treatments for unexpected injuries and illnesses, such as broken limbs and upper respiratory conditions.
Accident only
Accident-only policies are inexpensive and often best for people who want coverage for catastrophic accidents at a lower premium (and for people with cats that are older or have pre-existing health conditions). These policies pay for treatments only for unexpected injuries or accidents, such as a fractured tooth or toxic ingestion.
Wellness
Wellness plans are usually available as add-ons to accident and illness or accident-only plans. They reimburse you up to a set maximum for routine and preventative care, such as vaccinations and dental cleanings.
The table below shows common conditions and procedures cats may have and what each type of pet insurance covers:
Condition | Accident and Illness | Accident Only | Wellness |
---|---|---|---|
Fractured tooth | Covered | Covered | Not covered |
Broken limb | Covered | Covered | Not covered |
Diabetes | Covered | Not covered | Not covered |
Upper respiratory virus | Covered | Not covered | Not covered |
Kidney disease | Covered | Not covered | Not covered |
Toxic ingestion | Covered | Covered | Not covered |
Dental cleanings | Not covered | Not covered | Covered |
Spaying or neutering | Not covered | Not covered | Covered |
Microchips | Not covered | Not covered | Covered |
How to compare pet insurance quotes for cats
It’s important to consider your priorities when comparing quotes to help you secure the best one. When shopping for coverage, consider the following factors:
Coverage: When comparing your options, make sure you’re looking at pricing for similar coverage levels, meaning the same annual limits, reimbursement percentages, and deductibles.
Covered treatments and procedures: Covered procedures vary by company. For example, not all companies cover the cost of an emergency vet exam fee, and some insurers exclude holistic or complementary therapies like acupuncture or chiropractic care.
Customer satisfaction: Looking up reviews on sites like Trustpilot and the Better Business Bureau can give you an idea of how well a company handles claims and customer issues.
Exclusions: Some insurers exclude treatments for certain conditions, such as hip dysplasia. And, if your cat has a condition like feline leukemia virus (FeLV), it may not be eligible for coverage at all.
Waiting periods: Most pet insurance companies have waiting periods. If your cat develops an injury or illness within that waiting period — typically ranging from two weeks to six months from enrollment — any treatments will be excluded from coverage. Companies with shorter waiting periods tend to be better options since you’re more likely to be covered for issues that may pop up.
How much does pet insurance for cats cost?
In general, pet insurance for cats costs less than $35 per month for an accident and illness policy.[1] But your premiums may vary based on your pet’s age, breed, and location.
The table below shows average premiums based on pet age:
Age | Average Monthly Premium |
---|---|
Kitten | $20 |
Adult cat | $22 |
Senior cat | $60 |
Factors that affect the cost of cat insurance
Pet insurance premiums for your cat depend on a wide range of factors, from your cat’s breed to where you live and how much coverage you want. Here’s a closer look at what affects the cost of cat insurance.
Species
Cats are usually cheaper to insure than dogs since their vet costs are typically lower.
Breed
If you have a rare cat breed or it comes from a champion bloodline, like a Bengal cat, it may cost more to insure than a more common breed.
Gender
Pet owners file fewer claims for female pets, so this could affect your rate.
Location
The cost of cat insurance often relates to the average veterinary costs in your area, which can vary a lot by city and state.
Age
Older cats tend to have more health concerns and a higher risk for accidents, so your monthly premiums for a senior cat are often higher than for a kitten.
Health
Cats with pre-existing conditions or a history of injuries may cost more to insure than cats with clean bills of health, and your policy will typically exclude any of these pre-existing health conditions.
Coverage type
The type of pet insurance you choose affects your rate. Basic accident-only plans cost less than comprehensive accident and illness plans. Pet insurance companies often offer wellness plans as an add-on for an extra fee.
Annual deductible
Some pet insurance companies let you choose your deductible amount, which can range anywhere from $0 to $1,000. A higher deductible often means you’ll pay a lower rate.
How to file a pet insurance claim for your cat
Whether your cat ate something it shouldn’t have or fractured its leg jumping from the bookshelf, here’s how to file a claim:
Visit a veterinarian. Companies usually require you to visit a vet, pay for treatment up front, and submit a claim for reimbursement. So the first step is to get your cat treatment from a licensed veterinarian.
Collect information. When you submit a claim, the insurance company will ask for documents like an invoice from the veterinarian, a copy of your payment receipt, and past medical records for your cat.
File a claim. Depending on the company, you may be able to file a claim online or over the phone. The insurance company will ask about what happened to your cat, which veterinarian you took it to, and the date of the medical treatment.
Wait for reimbursement. The insurance company will review your claim. If it approves it, you’ll either get a check for reimbursement or money via electronic transfer.
Cat owners tend to visit the veterinarian’s office less than dog owners. But some insurance companies require you to take your cat to the vet at least once a year in order for treatments to be covered. Get in the habit of taking your cat in for an annual checkup to maximize your coverage.
Cat insurance FAQs
Whether you’re a seasoned cat owner or bringing home your first kitten, pet insurance can be a worthwhile investment. Before purchasing a policy, the following information can help you make an informed decision about your coverage needs.
When should you get insurance for your cat?
In general, the earlier in your cat’s life you get insurance, the better. Younger cats are less likely to have existing health issues, so you won’t have to worry about pre-existing conditions, ensuring you can get accident and illness protection at the best possible rate.
Can you insure an older cat?
Although some companies will insure older cats, it’s more difficult to find insurance in general and even harder to find an affordable rate. Some insurance companies won’t insure older pets, and premiums tend to be significantly higher as the cat ages.
With some insurance companies, the age restrictions are strict. For example, Nationwide doesn’t offer illness coverage for cats enrolled at the age of 8 years or older.
Does pet insurance cover dental for cats?
Accident and illness plans usually cover dental injuries, like tooth fractures. But routine care, such as dental cleanings for your cat, is covered only if you added an optional wellness plan to your policy.
Can you use any vet with cat insurance?
Fortunately, with pet insurance, you can take your cat to any licensed veterinarian in the country.
Are pre-existing conditions covered?
No. If your cat has an existing medical issue, such as diabetes, or develops a condition during the policy waiting period, insurers consider this a pre-existing condition and will exclude it from your coverage.
Is pet insurance worth it for indoor cats?
Even if you keep your cat entirely indoors, pet insurance can be worthwhile. Cats can still get into mischief, leading to unexpected injuries, and cats can also develop chronic health issues or diseases. These conditions can cost thousands to treat, so pet insurance can give you peace of mind.
Methodology
Insurify data scientists analyzed more than 250,000 pet insurance quotes from our proprietary database — sourced by Fletch Insurance Services LLC (“Fletch”) — to determine the premium prices displayed on this page. These quotes come directly from Insurify’s 10+ partner insurance companies across all 50 states and Washington, D.C., reflecting monthly pet insurance costs for both dogs and cats.
Unless otherwise specified, premium prices represent one-year rolling medians to account for market volatility driven by factors such as rising veterinary care costs and increased pet ownership.
Breed-level prices incorporate both mixed and purebred pets. To ensure reliability, a minimum of eight quotes is required for dogs and four quotes for cats. Breeds with significant price deviations from the average are noted explicitly; other breeds are estimated based on average costs for all purebred pets.
Pets are grouped into three age brackets:
- Young: under 12 months
- Adult: 12 months to 7 years
- Senior: over 7 years
Coverage Limits
Dog premium averages reflect policies with annual coverage limits of $2,500, $5,000, $10,000, or unlimited.
Cat premium averages reflect policies with annual coverage limits of $2,500, $5,000, $7,000, $10,000, or unlimited.
For both dogs and cats, monthly premiums are segmented by:
- Deductible options: $250, $500, $1,000
- Reimbursement options: 70%, 80%, 90%
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Sources
)
Kat Tretina is a personal finance writer specializing in debt repayment and insurance.
Previously, she worked in public relations within the pharmaceutical industry before switching to non-profit work. After struggling to repay her own student loan debt and seeing firsthand how complex the financial aid and repayment system is, she began writing to share what she learned so other people could better manage their loans.
For the past seven years, she’s been freelancing for major financial publications, focusing her work on helping people understand their financial options. Kat double-majored in English and Communications at Elizabethtown College, and she went on to earn her master’s at West Chester University. She has also earned certifications in student loan counseling and financial education.
)
Sara Getman is an Associate Editor at Insurify and has been with the company since 2022. Prior to joining Insurify, Sara completed her undergraduate degree in English Literature at Simmons University in Boston. At Simmons, she was the Editor-in-Chief for Sidelines Magazine (a literary and art publication), and wrote creative non-fiction.
Outside of work, Sara is an avid reader, and loves rock climbing, yoga, and crocheting.
)
Corporate communications director for Insurance Information Institute
20+ years in insurance and communications
As Director, Corporate Communications for Triple-I, Mark serves as the non-profit’s national spokesperson, sharing information and education on a wide array of insurance issues.