What Doesn’t Pet Insurance Cover?
While pet insurance can be a lifesaver for many costs, it doesn’t cover everything. Source: BestPetPlanGuide.com
Most policies exclude pre-existing conditions, meaning anything diagnosed before your policy starts won’t be covered. Waiting periods also apply, so you can’t sign up and immediately claim for an ongoing problem.
Routine wellness care (vaccines, spay/neuter, flea/tick prevention) is typically not included in standard plans unless you buy a wellness add-on. Cosmetic procedures (ear cropping, declawing), breeding costs, and elective surgeries are also excluded.
Some policies exclude certain hereditary or breed-specific conditions, or impose higher premiums. Dental disease and behavioral issues may require specialized coverage.
Always read your policy carefully to understand what’s excluded and where you might face out-of-pocket costs.
Pros
Covers many unexpected costs
Helps budget for emergencies
Add-ons available for wellness
Flexible plans available
Cons
Excludes pre-existing conditions
Routine care often extra
Cosmetic procedures not covered
Some breed/hereditary conditions excluded
Excluded Item
Pre-existing conditions
Routine vaccines
Cosmetic procedures
Elective breeding costs
Typical Coverage?
❌ Not covered
❌ Add-on only
❌ Not covered
❌ Not covered
Get clear, side-by-side comparisons of what top plans exclude at BestPetPlanGuide.com.
Source: BestPetPlanGuide.com