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Do I need pet insurance?

Welcomed a new puppy or kitten into your family? Pet insurance can cover those unexpected costs should the unthinkable happen and your four-legged family member suffers injury or illness.

Welcomed a new puppy or kitten into your family? Pet insurance can cover those unexpected costs should the unthinkable happen and your four-legged family member suffers injury or illness.

Written by
David Edbrooke
Sub editor
Posted
3 FEBRUARY 2021
4 min read
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Is pet insurance essential?

While your pet is healthy, pet insurance can seem like an unnecessary expense. But it’s something that can be a real lifesaver if your pet becomes ill, or has an accident. Ask yourself the following questions to help decide if you need pet insurance.

What type of pet have you got?

If you own cats or dogs, having pet insurance can help you care for them. You might also want pet insurance if you own exotic pets because vet treatment can be very expensive. To insure exotic pets, you’ll need a specialist insurance provider.

Do you have substantial savings or income?

If your pet gets ill or is injured, vet bills can run into the hundreds, if not thousands of pounds. If this is money you could easily find, or comfortably save, then you may not need pet insurance. But if not, you’ll want some sort of plan to cover unexpected costs. Pet insurance can provide this safety net.

Have you got a dog?

As any dog owner knows, these canine companions aren’t always perfectly behaved. And if your dog injures another animal or person, or damages their property, you could be held liable. Pet insurance for dogs can include third party cover, which can provide protection. For example, it could cover costs relating to accidental injury or property damage caused by your dog, if a claim is made against you.

How old is your pet?

Pet insurance for elderly cats or dogs can be hard - though not impossible - to find, and premiums may be prohibitive. If your pet is young, it’s best not to wait too long before getting them insured. It can be very difficult to find insurance that covers pre-existing conditions, so it makes sense to get your new cat or dog insured before they develop any. Find out more about kitten insurance and puppy insurance.

What breed is your pet?

Pedigree cats and pedigree dogs can be more susceptible to disease than moggies and mutts. That’s why it’s so important to get them covered by pet insurance.

What level of cover do you want?

There’s considerable choice when it comes to pet insurance, from fully comprehensive lifetime cover to basic accident only insurance. That means you can pick the cover that’s right for your budget and your pet.

How much can you afford?

The price of pet insurance varies depending on the type of insurance, the extent of your cover and the age of your pet. But it certainly doesn’t need to cost a fortune.

Choosing the right pet insurance

When shopping for pet insurance, it’s important to find a policy that provides the right cover for your pet and your purse. Start comparing pet insurance today.

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Get a pet insurance quote and you could start saving now

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