Pet Insurance Quote Checklist

Updated 20 October 2026

We removed our premium calculator. Its figures came from fixed assumptions, not from insurers' current prices, so it could not tell you what a policy would cost. The only reliable price is a quote from the insurer for your own pet. This page helps you ask for comparable quotes.

This is general information, not financial advice, a quote or a recommendation of any insurer. Insurance may not pay for an illness or injury your pet already has.

Have this ready

Species, breed, date of birth, sex and whether your pet is sterilised.
Your pet's vet history, including any past or current condition, treatment or medication.
The cover you want: accidents only, accidents and illness, or routine care too.

Ask every insurer the same questions, in writing

Waiting periods. How long before each benefit (accidents, illness, orthopaedic problems) can be claimed? Different benefits may have different waits.
Pre-existing conditions. How does the policy define them, and are any covered, excluded or reviewed after a period?
Limits. What is the annual limit? Are there lower limits per condition, per event or per benefit?
Excess or co-payment. Is it a fixed amount or a percentage of each claim?
Age rules. Is there a maximum age to join, and does cover or the price change as your pet gets older?
Renewal. How are premiums reviewed each year, and can a claim change the price or terms?
How claims are paid. Do you pay the vet and claim back, or can the insurer pay the vet? Is pre-approval needed for treatment?
Exclusions. Are hereditary or breed-related conditions, dental treatment or routine care excluded?
Claims process. Which documents are needed, and what is the insurer's own stated time to assess a claim?
Cancelling. Is there a cooling-off period, and what happens to cover if you stop paying?

Compare quotes fairly

Put the answers side by side for the same pet and the same cover level. A lower monthly price can come with a longer waiting period, a lower limit or a higher excess. Keep the written terms and the date you received each quote, because plans and prices change.

If you cannot afford a vet bill today, insurance will not help with it. See our guide to affordable vet care options.

This page contains no affiliate links. See our affiliate disclosure.