What Does Pet Insurance Cover?

Coverage depends on the type of pet insurance plan you choose. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types of plans and what they typically include.

Accident-only pet insurance is the most basic type of coverage. It’s designed for unexpected injuries or emergencies—not illnesses. 

Accident-only plans typically cover: 

• Broken bones 
• Cuts or lacerations 
• Ingesting foreign objects or toxins 
• Bite wounds 
• Emergency surgery 
• Diagnostic tests related to accidents 
• X-rays, MRIs, and ultrasounds following trauma

This is the most popular and comprehensive plan type. It covers accidents plus a range of new illnesses. 

This is often referred to as comprehensive insurance and can be combined with optional wellness or routine care add-ons. 

Accident and illness plans typically cover: 

• Cancer treatments 
• Infections (like ear or urinary tract infections) 
• Chronic illnesses (e.g., diabetes, arthritis) 
• Hereditary and congenital conditions (depending on provider) 
• Hospitalization and surgery 
• Related prescription medications 
• Diagnostic testing for illnesses 

Depending on the provider and plan, some pet insurance coverage includes additional services. These can be part of complete coverage or come as optional add-ons: 

• Behavioral therapy, and training for anxiety or compulsive behaviors 
• Alternative therapies like acupuncture or chiropractic care 
• Exam or office visit fees 
• Dental illness and periodontal disease care 
• Veterinary diets or prescription pet food 
• End-of-life care and cremation 
• Boarding fees if you’re hospitalized and unable to care for your pet 

Always read the policy details or ask the provider for specifics before signing up. 

As is typical with all insurance, not everything is covered. Pet insurance plans may exclude the following: 

• Pre-existing conditions (conditions your pet had before coverage began) 
• Cosmetic procedures (such as tail docking or ear cropping) 
• Breeding or pregnancy-related care 
• Declawing and dewclaw removal 
• Injuries from neglect, abuse, or fighting 
• Experimental treatments  
• Supplements not prescribed for a covered condition

Note that each provider defines pre-existing conditions differently, so read the fine print or talk to a representative for clarification. 

Pet insurance doesn’t usually pay 100% of your vet bill. Instead, you’ll pay a portion and your insurance will reimburse you based on: 

• Reimbursement rate (usually 70%, 80%, or 90%) 
• Deductible (either annual or per incident) 
• Annual payout limit (some plans are unlimited) 

Here’s how it might break down: Say your vet bill is $1,000, and your plan has an 80% reimbursement rate and a $200 deductible. You’d pay the first $200, and then your insurer would reimburse you 80% of the remaining $800—which is $640.

This may be up to your annual limit or can be unlimited, depending on your plan coverage. Note that with some providers, the reimbursement rate may apply first and then the deductible. 

Typically, you’ll pay the vet bill up front and then file a claim for reimbursement. Be sure to keep all receipts and paperwork to make the process smoother. 

Finding the right plan means thinking about your pet’s age, breed, health, and your budget. Ask yourself: 

• Do you want coverage only for accidents, illnesses, and/or preventative care? 
• Do you want your deductible to be lower with a higher premium, or a higher deductible coverage with a lower premium? 
• Does your pet have a condition that might be considered pre-existing? 
• Do you want preventive care covered? 

It’s also a good idea to compare quotes from multiple providers. Whether you are looking for comprehensive coverage with an accident and illness plan, adding a wellness plan, or just an accident-only plan for emergencies, there are several options to help provide you with peace of mind. 

To learn more about how pet insurance can help protect your pet or to get a personalized quote, visit CarePlus by Chewy. You can also speak directly with one of our licensed experts at 800-672-4399, who will be happy to answer any questions you might have.