Pet insurance basics
Insurance usually reimburses you after you pay the vet. It generally won't cover conditions that existed before you enrolled.
Updated October 15, 2026 · US prices · 6 sources · see sources
| Item | Typical US price | Src |
|---|---|---|
| ASPCA planning figure, dog (2021) | $516/year | [1] |
| ASPCA planning figure, cat (2021) | $348/year | [1] |
| Accident & illness plan, dog (US avg 2025) | $836/year | [2] |
| Accident & illness plan, cat (US avg 2025) | $435/year | [2] |
| Accident-only plan, dog | $190/year | [2] |
| Accident-only plan, cat | $112/year | [2] |
| Plan with embedded wellness, dog | $1,414/year | [2] |
| Plan with embedded wellness, cat | $859/year | [2] |
Ranges come from the sources below, and each one measures something slightly different (published prices, owner invoices or planning budgets). Your vet's estimate is what counts. Older figures, like the ASPCA's 2021 table, are probably lower than today's prices.
What affects the cost
- Type of plan US averages in 2025 ran $190/year (dog) for accident-only, $836 for accident & illness, and $1,414 with embedded wellness. [2]
- Dog or cat Average accident & illness premiums for cats ($435) were about half those for dogs ($836). [2]
- Rising prices The average US dog accident & illness premium rose 11.5% in 2025 and cats rose 12.6%. [2]
Ways to save
- Enroll before problems start Conditions documented before enrollment are generally treated as pre-existing and excluded; a diagnosed diabetic cat can't get diabetes covered by switching insurers. [3]
- Watch orthopedic waiting periods Many plans have a 6–12 month orthopedic waiting period, so late enrollment can void a cruciate (TPLO) claim. [4]
- Know what plans usually pay A plan bought before an emergency usually pays back 70–90% of the bill after the deductible. [5]
- Routine care is usually separate Standard insurance doesn't cover routine wellness visits; wellness add-ons run about $10–$25/month. [6]
Questions to ask your vet
Print this or bring it on your phone.
Common questions
Does pet insurance cover pre-existing conditions?
Generally no, which is why many owners enroll while their pet is young and healthy. Check each policy.
Is pet insurance worth it?
It depends on your savings and risk tolerance. Compare a policy's yearly cost with emergency bills such as the $808 median emergency invoice (VetReceipt).
How much is pet insurance per month?
NAPHIA's 2026 report put the 2025 US average for an accident & illness plan at $836 a year for dogs and $435 for cats, roughly $70 and $36 a month.
Is accident-only insurance cheaper?
Yes. NAPHIA's US averages for 2025 were $190 a year for dogs and $112 for cats, but these plans don't cover illnesses like cancer or infections.
Related guides
Sources
- ASPCA – Cutting Pet Care Costs (2021 table)
- NAPHIA – State of the Industry 2026 report highlights (2025 premiums)
- RealVetCost – Feline diabetes treatment cost
- VetReceipt – Dog TPLO Surgery Cost (owner bills, 2026)
- VetReceipt – Emergency Vet Visit Cost (owner bills, 2026)
- VetReceipt – Dog Routine Vet Visit Cost (owner bills, 2026)
Try the free pet cost calculators →