Does pet insurance cover illnesses?

ByScott Hengst Reading Time: 2 minutes

Yes, pet insurance policies generally cover illnesses. This includes conditions such as infections, digestive issues, allergies, respiratory problems, and more. Diagnostic tests, treatments, medications, and hospitalization related to covered illnesses are typically included. It’s important to review the policy terms to see if such conditions are covered.

Illness treatments that your pets may encounter can include Glaucoma, Digestive problems, Ear infections, Arthritis, Kennel Cough, Skin infections, Urinary problems. Diagnosing and treating a UTI (urinary tract infection) for a dog typically costs $350 without insurance and with insurance is $350 for treatment if deductible has not been met. Glaucoma treatment costs $3,750 without insurance, with insurance is $1,150 with a 80% reimbursement rate.

Note: You might be wondering why the insurance doesn’t seem to help much in the UTI situation. It’s important to remember, if your pet goes to the vet for a UTI that is most likely not the only claim resulting from that visit. Your pet will most likely need a follow up visit and potentially additional medications to fully treat the UTI which will most likely exceed your remaining $150 towards your deductible. Also keep in mind that insurance is not designed to cover small claims but for catastrophic events. And filing your smaller claims will help you meet your deductible faster to save you money in the event of a large claim.

Estimated Illness Vet Bill for Glaucoma Cost with Specialist

Total Vet Bill
$3,750		You Pay This At Time Of Service

Need help with up front expenses? Check out Vet Spend
Insurance Coverage
 -$2,600		Insurance Reimbursement
(Here’s The Math)

Total Vet Bill: $3,750
Your Deductible: – $500

Eligible For Reimbursement: = $3,250
Reimbursement Rate: x 80%

= $2,600
Your Final Cost
$1,150		You Saved 69% With Insurance!
Specific coverage details may vary depending on the insurance provider and your policy. Review your policy for details.

Estimated Illness Vet Bill For A UTI Cost: 

  • Total cost $350
  • Reimbursement rate 80%
  • Cost before deductible $350 (Example deductible is $500) (Annual deductible for your pet insurance is the required amount you pay out of pocket before your pet insurance policy begins covering medical expenses.)
  • Co-insurance 20% = $0.00
  • Final cost with insurance = $350 for UTI treatment if deductible has not been met. Total cost without insurance is $350.