Pet insurance is a valuable investment for pet owners, offering financial protection and peace of mind in the event of unexpected veterinary expenses. However, one common concern among pet owners is whether pet insurance covers pre-existing conditions. In this article, we will explore this topic and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision about pet insurance coverage.
What Are Pre-Existing Conditions?
A pre-existing condition in pet insurance refers to an illness or injury that your pet had before your coverage started. Generally, pet insurance companies do not cover pre-existing conditions. For example, if your dog had diabetes before your coverage began, the policy will not pay for any diabetes-related veterinary expenses.
Curable and Incurable Pre-Existing Conditions
Some pet insurance companies categorize pre-existing conditions into two categories: curable and incurable.
Curable Pre-Existing Conditions
Certain pet insurance companies, such as Embrace and ASPCA, cover curable pre-existing conditions under specific circumstances. For example, if a curable condition does not recur for a certain period, it may be considered a new problem. Examples of curable pre-existing conditions include bladder infections, diarrhea, ear infections, respiratory infections, urinary tract infections, and vomiting.
Incurable Pre-Existing Conditions
In contrast, there are pre-existing conditions that pet insurance companies consider incurable. These conditions require ongoing treatment, including repeat veterinarian visits, medication, and in some cases, surgery. Examples of incurable pre-existing conditions include allergies, arthritis, bladder crystals, cancer, diabetes, epilepsy, heart disease, hip dysplasia, kidney disease, orthopedic conditions, and urinary blockages. Unfortunately, pet insurance does not cover these types of conditions.
Bilateral Exclusions
A bilateral illness or injury is a condition that affects both the left and right sides of your pet’s body, such as hip dysplasia or a cruciate ligament tear. Due to the higher likelihood of a pet experiencing the same condition on the opposite side of their body, many insurance companies have bilateral exclusions in their policies. This means that if your pet had treatment for a condition on one side of its body before the policy started, the other side will not be covered later. However, if your pet experiences a bilateral condition after coverage starts, it will be covered.
Which Pet Insurance Companies Cover Pre-Existing Conditions?
While most pet insurance companies do not cover pre-existing conditions, some may offer coverage for curable pre-existing conditions under certain conditions. Here’s a look at coverage from some pet insurers:
- Pets Best: Covers curable pre-existing conditions (except for knee and ligament conditions) if your pet is free of symptoms and treatments for 180 days.
- Embrace: Covers curable pre-existing conditions if your pet is symptom and treatment-free for 12 months.
- Figo: Coverage for curable pre-existing conditions may be determined by calling their Customer Experience team after being symptom-free for 12 months.
- Lemonade: Covers pre-existing conditions that have been cured and resolved for at least 12-18 months, depending on your state.
- Paw Protect: Covers curable pre-existing conditions if the condition has been symptom and treatment-free for 12 months.
- Spot: Covers curable conditions if your pet has been free of symptoms and professional treatment for 180 days (except for knee and ligament conditions).
- Trupanion: Does not cover any pre-existing conditions.
Please note that coverage and eligibility requirements may vary among insurers, so it’s essential to review each company’s specific policies and consult with their representatives to determine the best insurance option for your pet’s needs.
FAQs
Q: Can pet insurance cover pre-existing conditions?
A: Generally, pet insurance companies do not cover pre-existing conditions. However, there are exceptions for curable pre-existing conditions under specific circumstances, depending on the insurance company.
Q: What are curable pre-existing conditions?
A: Curable pre-existing conditions are illnesses or injuries that can be treated and resolved within a specific timeframe. Examples include bladder infections, ear infections, and respiratory infections.
Q: What are incurable pre-existing conditions?
A: Incurable pre-existing conditions are illnesses or injuries that require ongoing treatment and management. Examples include allergies, arthritis, and cancer.
Q: What are bilateral exclusions?
A: Bilateral exclusions refer to conditions that affect both sides of your pet’s body, such as hip dysplasia. Many insurance companies have bilateral exclusions, meaning that if your pet received treatment for a condition on one side of its body before the policy started, the other side will not be covered later.
Conclusion
While pet insurance generally does not cover pre-existing conditions, there are exceptions for curable conditions under specific circumstances. It’s crucial to carefully review the policies of different pet insurance companies to find coverage that meets your pet’s specific needs. By understanding the terms and conditions of pet insurance, you can make an informed decision and provide your furry companion with the protection they deserve.
