Guide to Pet Insurance Coverage for Prior Health Conditions

Learn how pet insurance addresses pre-existing conditions, including which providers offer coverage, how to improve your pet's coverage, and questions to ask before signing up. Understand the options to protect your pet's health with the right insurance plan.

Guide to Pet Insurance Coverage for Prior Health Conditions

Selecting the right pet insurance plan involves understanding what illnesses and treatments are included, as well as any restrictions. A prior health issue is any condition that was present or showed symptoms before the policy was active or during its waiting period. Examples include a congenital limb abnormality or a cough that occurred before coverage began.

Coverage of Previous Health Issues

Many insurers do not provide comprehensive coverage for pre-existing conditions. It’s advisable to get insurance while your pet is healthy to avoid exclusions later. Switching providers afterward might influence coverage options and premiums, especially with ongoing health concerns.

Insurers That Cover Past Conditions

Figo Pet Insurance – May waive coverage for curable conditions if symptoms disappeared for a year.

Petplan – Differentiates between curable and incurable conditions, covering only those treatable after a waiting period.

ASPCA Insurance – Usually requires a 180-day symptom-free period before coverage kicks in for similar issues.

Nationwide Pet Insurance – Might cover future treatments if the pet remains symptom-free for six months; always verify with the insurer.

Questions to Ask Your Insurance Provider

Before purchasing, discuss existing health issues to understand coverage clearly. Healed injuries or curable illnesses are often covered, while chronic conditions usually are not.

This article outlines essential information about pet insurance policies related to past health conditions. Carefully review policy details to understand the coverage limits and exclusions specific to your pet's health history.