Pet insurance explained

Insurance is what stands between a serious diagnosis and an impossible decision.

Policy types

• Lifetime: an annual limit per condition that refreshes each year. Best for chronic illness
• Maximum benefit: a fixed pot per condition, then no more cover for it, ever
• Time limited: covers a condition for 12 months only
• Accident only: cheapest, and covers no illness

Pre-existing conditions

Anything present or showing signs before cover starts is usually excluded, including at renewal if you switch insurers. This is why insuring young and staying put often works out best.

Check

Excess, co-payment on older pets, dental cover, behavioural cover, and whether third party liability is included for dogs.