Pet Insurance Premium Increases in SA

Reports of Dotsure 47% increases and OUTsurance premium creep suggest SA pet insurance pricing is heading in one direction. Here's what's happening and what to do about it.

The Pattern

Premium increases — especially after your first claim — are one of the most common complaints on SA pet insurance forums. The advertised R80-R120/month starting price is for a young, healthy pet. Your actual premium will almost certainly be higher, and it will climb over time.

What Real Owners Are Reporting

Dotsure — 47% Increase After First Claim

A Hellopeter reviewer reported that their Dotsure premium jumped by nearly half — after years of paying premiums without claiming. This pattern of loyalty-penalty pricing is not unique to Dotsure.

OUTsurance — Premium Creep

On Reddit, a user paying R510 and R506 for two dogs on OUTsurance reported premiums creeping up over time, with no significant change in cover level.

Oneplan — R700/month for Two Dogs

A Hellopeter reviewer was paying approximately R700/month for two dogs on Oneplan, and discovered dental benefits had been reclassified with a lower cap.

Why Are Premiums Going Up?

• Vet costs are rising: SA vet practices face R300k-R450k/month in operating costs
• Your pet is aging: As your pet gets older, your risk category changes
• Post-claim re-rating: Some insurers increase premiums after you file a claim
• Industry-wide adjustments: Dotsure's 47% increase may reflect broader repricing

What You Can Do

1. Don't assume loyalty is rewarded — pet insurance is month-to-month. Shop around.
2. Compare before you switch — but remember: new waiting periods apply when switching
3. Ask your insurer for a reason — some will adjust if you push back
4. Adjust your cover level — consider dropping from Comprehensive to Accident + Illness