Pet Insurance Blog

5 Pet Insurance Myths Debunked: What Every Owner Should Know

Kari Steere
Licensed Insurance Producer - Pawlicy Advisor
pet cat on laptop

Pet insurance is an invaluable tool for protecting your furry family members, but it’s also a topic surrounded by misconceptions. These myths can lead pet owners to make uninformed decisions, potentially leaving their pets vulnerable .

In this article, we’ll debunk five common pet insurance myths, helping you understand the realities so you can make the best choices for your pet’s health and well-being.

Myth 1: You Can't Get Pet Insurance for Pre-Existing Conditions

One of the most pervasive myths about pet insurance is that if your pet has a pre-existing condition, you’re out of luck. While it’s true that most pet insurance policies don’t cover pre-existing conditions, there’s more to the story.

Some providers consider certain conditions “curable.” This means that if your pet remains symptom-free for a specified period, often 6-18 months, that condition may become eligible for coverage again . Additionally, pet insurance can still provide protection for any new, unrelated health issues that might arise over your pet’s lifetime.

It’s important to read the fine print of any policy you’re considering, and Pawlicy Advisor makes it easy to do just that. Our platform highlights major exclusions, helping you understand what is and isn’t covered before you commit.

Myth 2: Pet Insurance Only Works at Some Vets

Many people assume that pet insurance only works at specific veterinary clinics. This is often confused with human health insurance, which typically has networks of approved providers.

However, most pet insurance policies allow you to visit any licensed vet, specialist, or emergency clinic . You pay the vet bill upfront, submit a claim to your insurance provider, and receive reimbursement based on your policy’s terms.

There may be some exceptions, such as certain plans that work directly with a vet for payment, but these are rare. Generally, you have the flexibility to choose the best vet for your pet’s needs without worrying about insurance restrictions.

Myth 3: Pet Insurance Coverage Starts Immediately

While it would be ideal if pet insurance coverage started the moment you purchased it, the reality is that all policies include a waiting period before coverage kicks in.

This waiting period typically ranges from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the policy and the type of coverage (e.g., accidents vs. illnesses).

The purpose of the waiting period is to prevent people from purchasing insurance only after their pet has developed a health issue. However, some policies offer accelerated coverage options or waive the waiting period for certain conditions, so it’s worth exploring your options.

This also underscores the importance of getting pet insurance early, before your pet develops any health issues.

Some people can predict the future. For everyone else, there's pet insurance.

Use Pawlicy Advisor to easily compare plans from top companies so you can find a great deal with great coverage.

Myth 4: Pet Insurance Plans Are All the Same

It's easy to assume that all pet insurance plans are identical, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. There’s a wide variety of plans available, each offering different levels of coverage at a variety of price points.

Some plans may cover only accidents, while others include illnesses, hospitalizations, prescription medication, and even alternative treatments like hydrotherapy and chiropractic.

To help you navigate the many options, we analyze data from leading pet insurance companies and offer personalized plan recommendations based on your pet's unique information.

You can instantly compare popular plans at a glance, with a clear view of key details like coverage limits, exclusions, and premiums, so you can confidently choose the best pet insurance plan tailored to your preferences and pet's specific needs.

Myth 5: The Cheapest Plan Today Is the Cheapest Plan for Life

Many pet owners make the mistake of choosing the cheapest plan available, assuming it will remain the most cost-effective option throughout their pet’s life.

However, pet insurance premiums can increase over time due to factors such as your pet’s age, inflation, and changes in veterinary costs. What seems like a great deal now might not be the best value in the long run. To avoid surprises, consider the long-term value of a plan rather than just the upfront cost.

When you compare pet insurance at Pawlicy Advisor, you'll see a Lifetime Value Score, which helps you identify which plans stand to save you the most money over your pet’s lifetime . This score takes into account potential premium increases, helping you make a more informed decision that balances cost and coverage.

Get expert guidance to find the best pet insurance for your best friend.

Final Thoughts

Pet insurance is a vital tool for ensuring your pet receives the best possible care, but it’s important to cut through the myths and understand how it truly works. By debunking these common misconceptions, we hope you feel more confident in choosing the right pet insurance plan for your furry friend.

Remember, tools like Pawlicy Advisor are available to help you navigate the complex world of pet insurance, making it easier to find the best coverage for your pet's unique needs.

Do you want to find the best pet insurance?

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About Pawlicy Advisor

The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. By comparing personalized coverage and pricing differences we can save you a ton of money, up to 83% in some instances!

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Kari Steer, Licensed P&C Insurance Agent at Pawlicy Advisor

Kari Steere
Licensed Insurance Producer - Pawlicy Advisor

Kari Steere is a licensed P&C insurance agent in all 50 states and has focused entirely on pet insurance since 2019. As an animal lover with a rescued Terrier named Barry, when she's not helping pet owners find the perfect plan on Pawlicy Advisor, she runs a ranch in Oregon and rehabilitates any animals that come across her path.

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