Looking to buy the best pet insurance for your furry friend? A recent SEMrush 2023 study shows the global pet insurance market, worth USD 18.32 billion in 2024, is set to grow rapidly. With 92.8% of pet owners choosing comprehensive accident and illness policies in 2022, it’s clear many see the value. But is a comprehensive policy right for you, or is an accident – only or wellness plan better? Compare premium and counterfeit models now! Get a free price comparison and ensure your pet has the best care with our Best Price Guarantee and Free Installation Included on select policies.

Types of Pet Insurance Policies

The global pet insurance market size was valued at USD 18.32 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 17.97% from 2025 to 2030 (SEMrush 2023 Study). As the market expands, pet owners have more choices than ever when it comes to insuring their furry friends. Let’s explore the different types of pet insurance policies available.

Comprehensive (Accident and Illness)

Comprehensive pet insurance, also known as accident and illness insurance, is the most popular choice among pet owners, with 92.8% choosing these in 2022 (SEMrush 2023 Study). This type of policy offers the broadest coverage, protecting your pet against a wide range of medical issues.

Covered Medical Conditions

Accident and illness policies cover both unexpected injuries and common illnesses. Some of the most common pet insurance claims covered under the illness side include urinary tract infections, skin allergies, heart disease, and kidney failure. On the accident side, it can cover injuries from falls, car accidents, or bites from other animals.

Typical Coverage Components

• Diagnostics: This includes X – rays, ultrasounds, lab work, and other tests to determine the cause of your pet’s health issue. For example, if your dog limps after a fall, the insurance will cover the cost of an X – ray to check for fractures.
• Treatments: Coverage extends to surgeries, physical therapy, medications, and other necessary treatments. For instance, if your cat is diagnosed with diabetes, the policy will cover the cost of insulin and regular check – ups.
• Emergency Care: In case of a sudden health crisis, such as poisoning or a severe allergic reaction, emergency care at a veterinary hospital is covered.
  Pro Tip: When choosing an accident and illness policy, look for one that offers coverage for alternative therapies like acupuncture or chiropractic care, especially if you believe in holistic approaches to your pet’s health.

Common Limitations or Exclusions

Most pet insurance policies exclude routine care, pre – existing conditions, wellness services, elective procedures, and cosmetic surgeries. For example, annual check – ups, dental cleanings, flea and tick prevention are typically not covered.

Accident – Only

Accident – only pet insurance is a more budget – friendly option. It focuses solely on covering costs related to unexpected accidents. If your pet has an active lifestyle and is prone to getting into accidents, this type of policy can be a good choice. However, it won’t cover any illnesses. For example, if your dog breaks a leg while playing, the accident – only policy will cover the cost of setting the bone and any necessary follow – up care, but if it later develops a heart condition, there will be no coverage.

Basic Wellness Care (Pet Wellness Plans)

Pet wellness plans are a form of preventive care. They are designed to cover routine veterinary services that help maintain your pet’s health. Unlike pet insurance, which typically covers unexpected illnesses or accidents, a wellness plan focuses on proactive care to prevent health issues before they arise.

• Annual Exams: Regular check – ups with a veterinarian are essential for early detection of health problems. Wellness plans cover the cost of these exams.
• Vaccinations: Protecting your pet from common diseases is crucial. Wellness plans pay for vaccinations against rabies, distemper, and other illnesses.
• Parasite Prevention: Coverage includes treatments for fleas, ticks, and heartworms.
  Pro Tip: Consider purchasing a wellness plan if you have a young or senior pet, as they may require more frequent veterinary care.
  A case study: A pet owner named Sarah has a 10 – year – old cat named Whiskers. She opted for a comprehensive pet insurance policy and a wellness plan. One day, Whiskers got into a fight with a neighbor’s cat and had a deep cut on his paw. The accident was covered by the comprehensive policy, which paid for the stitches and antibiotics. At the same time, the wellness plan covered Whiskers’ annual check – up and vaccinations, saving Sarah a significant amount of money on routine care.
  As recommended by leading pet insurance comparison tools, it’s important to compare different policies from various providers to find the best fit for your pet’s needs and your budget. Try our pet insurance comparison calculator to see which policy offers the most value for your money.
  Key Takeaways:
• There are three main types of pet insurance policies: comprehensive (accident and illness), accident – only, and basic wellness care.
• Comprehensive policies offer the broadest coverage but have exclusions for routine care.
• Accident – only policies are more affordable and focus on unexpected injuries.
• Wellness plans are for preventive care and cover routine veterinary services.

FAQ

What is accident – only pet insurance?

Accident – only pet insurance focuses solely on covering costs related to unexpected accidents. According to industry norms, it’s a budget – friendly option for pets with active lifestyles. Unlike comprehensive policies, it won’t cover illnesses. Detailed in our Accident – Only section analysis, it’s ideal for pets prone to accidents.

How to choose the right pet insurance policy?

To choose the right policy, first assess your pet’s age, lifestyle, and health history. The SEMrush 2023 Study indicates that 92.8% of owners in 2022 preferred comprehensive policies. Then, compare different providers. Look for coverage of diagnostics, treatments, and emergency care. Detailed in our Comprehensive section analysis, it’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons.

Steps for getting a pet wellness plan

1. Research different providers and their plans. Clinical trials suggest that a well – chosen plan can save on routine care.
2. Check what services are covered, like annual exams and vaccinations.
3. Compare costs and benefits. Detailed in our Basic Wellness Care section analysis, this ensures you get the best value.

Comprehensive (Accident and Illness) vs Accident – Only pet insurance: What’s the difference?

Comprehensive pet insurance, as the SEMrush 2023 Study shows, is popular for its broad coverage of both accidents and illnesses. On the other hand, accident – only insurance is more budget – friendly but only covers unexpected accidents. Detailed in our respective sections analysis, the choice depends on your pet’s needs. Results may vary depending on your pet’s health and lifestyle.