Becoming a cat owner is an incredibly rewarding experience, but it also comes with responsibilities, including medical costs. If you’re concerned about unexpected vet bills due to accidents, illnesses, or emergencies, investing in cat insurance could save you a lot of money. With so many options available, it’s essential to find a plan that fits both your cat’s needs and your budget.
In this article, we’ll review the top cat insurance companies of 2024, highlighting why they stood out, and how they cater to different needs.
Best Cat Insurance Companies
1. Best Overall: Figo Pet Insurance
Why Figo Stands Out
Figo Pet Insurance offers the best overall coverage for cats due to its flexibility, comprehensive policy options, and excellent customer service. Whether you need a basic or premium plan, Figo has a variety of choices that can fit any pet owner’s budget. It also features perks like diminishing deductibles for claim-free customers and 24/7 access to a licensed vet.
Key Features
- Annual deductible options: $100 – $1,500
- Reimbursement percentage: 70% – 100%
- Claim processing time: 9 to 12 days
- Enrollment age: 8 weeks to no maximum
Pros
- Fast claim processing
- Flexible policies with customizable options
- Short waiting periods for injuries and illnesses
- Discounts for Costco members and multiple pets
Cons
- Exam fees cost extra for accident and injury coverage
- Enrollment fees may apply
Figo also allows you to add wellness packages and vet exam fee coverage, making it a top choice for those who want to tailor their insurance plan to their specific needs.
2. Best for Curable Pre-Existing Conditions: ASPCA Pet Insurance
Why ASPCA Stands Out
ASPCA Pet Insurance is ideal for cats with curable pre-existing conditions. Unlike many competitors, ASPCA offers coverage for pre-existing conditions as long as your cat has been symptom-free for 180 days. This makes it a fantastic option if your pet has previously dealt with treatable health issues.
Key Features
- Annual deductible options: $100 – $500
- Reimbursement percentage: 70% – 90%
- Claim processing time: 14 to 30 days
- Enrollment age: 8 weeks to no maximum
Pros
- Covers curable pre-existing conditions after 180 days
- Discounts for multiple pets
- Accident-only coverage available
Cons
- Claims processing can take longer compared to other insurers
- Fewer deductible options
ASPCA also offers a variety of plan options, including accident-only and comprehensive coverage. You can also add preventive care to your policy for an additional fee.
3. Best for Included Exams at a Good Price: Nationwide Pet Insurance
Why Nationwide Stands Out
Nationwide offers competitively priced plans that include vet exam fees for both accidents and illnesses. This makes it a great option for cat owners who want affordable coverage without compromising on essential benefits like exams and diagnostics.
Key Features
- Annual deductible options: $100 – $1,000
- Reimbursement percentage: 50% – 70%
- Claim processing time: 9 to 12 days
- Enrollment age: 6 weeks to 10 years
Pros
- Vet exam fees included for accidents and injuries
- 24/7 access to a live vet hotline
- Affordable premiums
Cons
- Limited annual benefits
- Fewer reimbursement options (50% or 70%)
Nationwide offers three main plan options, including accident-only, major medical, and whole pet plans. However, the major medical plans are available only for cats under the age of 10.
4. Best for Discounts and Multiple Pets: MetLife Pet Insurance
Why MetLife Stands Out
MetLife offers excellent savings opportunities for families with multiple pets, as well as discounts for military personnel, veterans, and healthcare workers. Additionally, MetLife covers non-curable pre-existing conditions that developed under a previous insurer, making it a flexible option for cats with ongoing medical issues.
Key Features
- Annual deductible options: $0 – $500
- Reimbursement percentage: 70% – 90%
- Claim processing time: 10 days
- Enrollment age: No maximum
Pros
- Great discounts for multiple pets
- Short waiting periods for coverage
- Covers pre-existing conditions when switching providers
Cons
- No unlimited coverage available online
- No access to a vet hotline
MetLife’s family plans are particularly valuable for multi-pet households, allowing you to insure several pets under one plan for significant savings.
5. Best for Dental Coverage: Embrace Pet Insurance
Why Embrace Stands Out
Embrace offers outstanding dental coverage, with plans that include up to $1,000 per year for dental work such as tooth repairs, extractions, and root canals. This coverage extends to both accidents and illnesses, making Embrace a standout option if your cat is prone to dental issues.
Key Features
- Annual deductible options: $200 – $1,000
- Reimbursement percentage: 70% – 90%
- Claim processing time: 10 to 15 days
- Enrollment age: 6 weeks to 14 years
Pros
- Excellent dental coverage
- Flexible deductibles and wellness add-ons
- Unlimited annual coverage option available
Cons
- Requires a vet exam for enrollment
- No family plans for multiple pets
Embrace is a great option for cat owners looking for comprehensive dental and illness coverage. The wellness add-on allows you to cover preventive care, such as vaccinations and routine exams.
6. Best for Vet-Direct Payments: Pets Best
Why Pets Best Stands Out
Pets Best excels in offering direct payments to your vet, which means you won’t have to pay upfront and wait for reimbursement. This is particularly useful for owners who might struggle with large upfront costs for emergency treatments.
Key Features
- Annual deductible options: $50 – $1,000
- Reimbursement percentage: 70% – 90%
- Claim processing time: 20 to 25 days
- Enrollment age: 7 weeks to no maximum
Pros
- Direct vet payments available
- Flexible policies and coverage tiers
- Wellness plans available
Cons
- Longer waiting period for cruciate ligament issues
- Pre-existing conditions must be cured for 18 months
Pets Best offers a range of plans, from basic accident-only coverage to comprehensive plans that include dental and wellness options. The direct payment feature is especially beneficial if you prefer not to handle large out-of-pocket expenses.
Conclusion
Choosing the best cat insurance depends on your specific needs. Figo stands out as the best overall provider due to its flexibility and comprehensive coverage options, while MetLife is great for those with multiple pets. If dental coverage is a priority, Embrace offers the best options, and Pets Best’s direct vet payment feature can ease financial burdens during emergencies.
Start by assessing your cat’s needs, your budget, and what type of coverage you think would be most beneficial. Then, compare a few top insurers to find the best match for you and your furry friend.
So that was all about this article. If you have any further questions feel free to comment down below. We are always here to help you!
FAQs
How Much Does Cat Insurance Cost?
On average, cat insurance costs about $28.57 per month for an accident and illness plan, and around $10.85 for accident-only coverage. Prices vary based on factors such as your cat’s age, breed, and location, as well as the type of coverage you select.
Is Cat Insurance Worth It?
Cat insurance is often worth it, especially for accidents and illnesses that can lead to expensive vet bills. For example, treatments for injuries or illnesses like cancer can easily exceed $10,000, and insurance can help mitigate these costs.
What Does Cat Insurance Cover?
Cat insurance typically covers accidents, illnesses, and emergency treatments. Some plans also include preventive care, wellness exams, and dental treatments. However, cosmetic procedures, breeding, and pre-existing conditions are generally not covered.
Should I Get Insurance for My Indoor Cat?
Even though indoor cats are generally at lower risk than outdoor cats, they are still prone to illnesses and accidents. Cat insurance can provide peace of mind and financial protection if your pet needs unexpected veterinary care.
