Comparing pet insurance with us is easy. Let's take a look at the the information we'll need to find you quotes:

  • Your pet's age: An older animal is at higher risk of illness or injury, so they're more likely to need vetinary treatment than a younger animal.

  • Their breed: Certain breeds are more susceptible to illness or health issues, making it more likely you'll make a claim. For example, bulldogs are more likely to develop respiratory issues.

Pet insurance is designed to help cover unexpected veterinary fees if your pet becomes ill or is injured. Some policies may also cover the cost of finding your pet if they are lost or stolen.

You pay a regular premium, and if you make a claim, the insurer will typically reimburse eligible vet costs after deducting your excess. Depending on the policy, this may be a percentage of the bill or up to a set limit.

A standard pet insurance policy usually covers accidents and illnesses, and many dog policies may also include third-party liability. This provides protection if your dog causes injury to other people or damages their property.

Routine care, such as vaccinations or flea treatments, and pre-existing conditions are generally not covered.

Pet insurance acts as a financial safety net, helping you to avoid unexpected vet costs. Vet treatment can be very expensive, easily resulting in thousands of pounds in fees,

Getting cover early is crucial, as it locks in lower premiums before your pet's age or health can increase costs. If you wait until after a condition develops, it'll be considered 'pre-existing' and will be excluded from new policies. That means you'll have to cover the cost of any related treatment yourself.

We compare a variety of UK pet insurers to help you find the best deal.

Types of pet insurance

The type of cover you need will depend on what pet you have. Your pet's species, age and breed play a large role in deciding the cost of your premium

For dogs, third-party liability isn't always a must, but it's strongly recommended. However, if the breed is considered 'dangerous' under the Dangerous Dogs Act (1991), you're legally required to have third-party liability insurance.

Cats are generally cheaper to insure, but premiums can vary depending on whether they are indoor or outdoor. Outdoor cats face more risks, so policies for them tend to be more expensive.

Comparing quotes is the best way to find cheaper pet insurance deals. But there are a few other ways you can save on your premiums:

  • Increase your excess: A higher voluntary excess can lower your premium. But this means a higher amount will be deducted from any payouts you receive if you make a claim. So, make sure it's an amount you can afford.

  • Multi-pet discounts: If you have multiple pets, insuring them together can be cheaper than taking out separate policies.

  • Choose the right level of cover: While accident-only is the cheapest cover, a comprehensive policy might be better value for money. You'll want to find a policy that offers what you need at a competitive price.

  • Keep your pet healthy: Booking regular vet check-ups and staying up-to-date with your pet's vaccinations is a great way to keep them healthy. This can reduce the risk of your pet needing costly vetinary treatments further down the line.

Compare with us and we'll help save you money by finding our best pet insurance deals.

About the author

With three years of hands-on experience in the insurance industry, Imogen is the motor, home and lifestyle insurances expert at money.co.uk. She believes finding the right coverage shouldn't be a headache, and her primary mission is to break down complex policies into clear, actionable advice that results in real savings.