Best Cat Insurance in Canada in 2025
- Injuries, illnesses, dental illnesses
- Veterinary fees
- Surgeries and emergency care
- Cancer treatment
- Advertising/rewards for lost or stolen pets
- Injuries, illnesses, dental illnesses
- Veterinary fees
- Surgeries and emergency care
- Cancer treatment
- Advertising/rewards for lost or stolen pets
Fetch Pet Insurance offers a single, comprehensive plan tailored for pet owners who want extensive yet flexible coverage. With annual limit options of $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000 and customizable reimbursement rates (70%, 80%, or 90%), Fetch allows pet parents to find a plan that fits their budget. The plan covers accidents, illnesses, hereditary conditions, and advanced treatments, although there is no unlimited coverage tier. Deductibles range from $300 to $700 and are age-based, offering some adaptability based on your pet’s needs.
What sets Fetch apart is its inclusive dental coverage for all teeth and gum disease—something many other providers overlook. The plan also includes alternative therapies like acupuncture and behavioural treatments, as well as sick-visit exam fees, which are often excluded by competitors. Additional perks include lost pet advertising, boarding fees during the owner's hospitalization, and a wellness add-on for routine care. Fetch also offers a Healthy Pet Credit, lowering premiums by up to 30% after two claim-free years. However, there’s no option for direct vet payment—claims must be paid out-of-pocket first.
Fetch does have some drawbacks. It doesn’t cover pre-existing conditions, prescription food, or late claims (over 90 days). A six-month waiting period applies to hip and knee issues, though this can be waived with a timely vet exam. It’s also unavailable in New Brunswick and Quebec. Still, for pet owners looking for generous dental and therapeutic coverage with flexible plan design, Fetch is a top-tier contender.
Ideal Profile: Best for pet owners looking for comprehensive accident, illness, and dental coverage, with flexible reimbursement and deductible options. Especially recommended for younger pets who are more prone to accidents and illnesses—getting coverage early can help secure lower premiums and ensure broad eligibility for care.
- Comprehensive accident and illness coverage
- Extensive dental coverage (includes all teeth and gum disease)
- Covers alternative therapies (acupuncture, chiropractic care, behavioural therapy)
- Sick-visit exam fees included (saves $50–$250 per visit)
- Flexible reimbursement options: 70%, 80%, or 90%
- Annual limits of $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000
- No upper age limit for pet enrollment
- Healthy Pet Credit: Up to 30% off premiums with no claims for two years
- No unlimited coverage option
- No direct vet payment (must pay upfront and get reimbursed)
- Not available in New Brunswick or Quebec
- Routine wellness care requires an additional add-on
- Accidents and illnesses
- Exam fees and taxes
- Hereditary conditions
- Multi-pet discount
- Accidents and illnesses
- Exam fees and taxes
- Hereditary conditions
- Multi-pet discount
Pets Plus Us offers two main plans: Accident & Illness and Accident Only—making it one of the few Canadian insurers with an accident-only option. The Accident & Illness plan comes with annual coverage limits of $7,500 or $15,000 and customizable reimbursement rates (70%, 80%, or 90%), while the Accident Only plan offers a fixed $5,000 limit and 80% reimbursement. Deductibles are age-based, starting at $100 and increasing with the pet’s age.
Coverage includes hereditary conditions, diagnostics, hospitalization, surgeries, medications, behavioural therapy, and alternative treatments like acupuncture. Both plans include extra benefits like boarding fees, trip cancellation, and end-of-life expenses. Blue Ribbon Benefits add value with 24/7 vet access, poison control, and grief counselling.
Pets Plus Us stands out with its 4Life Guarantee, which ensures lifelong coverage as long as the policy stays active, and there are no breed exclusions. However, it doesn’t cover dental care, pre-existing conditions, or preventive treatments, and lacks an unlimited coverage option.
Ideal Profile: Best for pet owners looking for customizable coverage with strong accident and illness protection. The Accident & Illness plan is ideal for those wanting comprehensive care, while the Accident Only plan is a budget-friendly alternative perfect for younger and active pets. A great fit for those seeking lifetime coverage with no breed restrictions.
- Two customizable annual limits: $7,500 or $15,000
- Accident-only plan available for budget-conscious pet owners
- Reimbursement options of 70%, 80%, or 90% for Accident & Illness
- Covers hereditary and congenital conditions
- Alternative therapies and behavioral therapy included
- $1,000 in additional benefits per incident for trip cancellations, boarding, lost pet advertising, and end-of-life costs
- 4Life Guarantee ensures lifetime renewability
- No breed exclusions
- No unlimited coverage option
- Dental care and routine wellness treatments not covered
- Pre-existing conditions are excluded
- Deductible increases with pet’s age
- Care and intervention
- Diseases and accidents
- Advertising/reward for a lost or stolen pet
- Direct payment by veterinarians at participating veterinary hospitals
- Care and intervention
- Diseases and accidents
- Advertising/reward for a lost or stolen pet
- Direct payment by veterinarians at participating veterinary hospitals
Trupanion Canada offers a simple yet robust pet insurance plan with 90% reimbursement and no payout limits—making it one of the few providers with truly unlimited coverage. Instead of annual deductibles, it uses a per-condition lifetime deductible, so you only pay once per issue, no matter how long treatment continues. Coverage begins after a 5-day waiting period for accidents and 30 days for illnesses.
The core plan includes diagnostics, surgeries, hospital stays, medications, and hereditary conditions. Trupanion Pet Insurance’s standout feature is its Vet Direct Pay system, allowing the insurer to pay your vet directly at checkout (at participating clinics), avoiding out-of-pocket costs. Optional add-ons cover alternative therapies and lost pet support.
While Trupanion Canada offers excellent long-term value for pets with chronic conditions, it doesn’t cover exam fees or routine care. Premiums are generally higher, but the unlimited coverage and direct vet payment make it a strong option for owners seeking dependable, lifetime protection.
Ideal Profile: Best for pets with chronic or hereditary conditions, especially if you're worried about long-term treatment costs. A solid choice for owners who want predictable costs and peace of mind, particularly for breeds prone to specific health issues. Not ideal if you're looking for coverage on routine checkups or want to customize reimbursement levels.
- 90% reimbursement
- No annual or lifetime payout caps
- Lifetime per-condition deductible is ideal for chronic conditions
- Option to pay vets directly at checkout
- Covers congenital and hereditary conditions
- Fast claims processing
- No coverage for exam fees or wellness/routine care
- Higher premiums compared to other providers
- Limited customization
- Not ideal for owners seeking coverage for preventative care
- Illness and accidents
- Dental care included
- Behavioural therapy
- Exams fees
- Illness and accidents
- Dental care included
- Behavioural therapy
- Exams fees
PHI Direct offers a simple, affordable pet insurance plan with two annual coverage limit options: $5,000 or $10,000. It features 80% reimbursement and a low $200 annual deductible, making it an accessible choice for budget-conscious pet owners. What makes PHI Direct unique is its “New-Condition Coverage” model—any condition treated during the policy year is considered pre-existing the following year, which helps keep premiums low but limits long-term coverage for recurring or chronic conditions.
The plan covers a broad range of treatments, including accidents, illnesses, surgeries, hospitalization, prescriptions, diagnostics, and even alternative therapies like acupuncture and physiotherapy. Exam fees and taxes are also covered, and 24/7 telehealth access is included for added convenience. Pets can be enrolled from 7 weeks up to 14 years old, and a 5% multi-pet discount is available. However, PHI Direct doesn’t cover routine dental care, wellness services, bilateral conditions, or ongoing treatment for issues from a prior policy year.
PHI Direct is best suited for young, healthy pets whose owners want low-cost protection against new accidents and illnesses. Its streamlined, no-frills model offers solid short-term value, but it's not ideal for pets with ongoing medical needs or those prone to chronic conditions.
Ideal Profile: Best for young, healthy pets or pet owners looking for affordable accident and illness coverage without ongoing treatment needs. The low-cost premiums and straightforward policy make it a good option for budget-conscious pet parents. Not suitable for pets with chronic conditions, as prior-year treatments are excluded from future coverage.
- Two affordable annual coverage options: $5,000 or $10,000
- Low $200 deductible, making claims reimbursement quicker
- Exam fees, taxes, and alternative therapies included
- 24/7 Telehealth support for quick pet health consultations
- 5% multi-pet discount for households with multiple pets
- Keeps premiums lower over time with the New-Condition model
- New-Condition Coverage model means conditions covered one year are excluded the next
- No coverage for pre-existing conditions, wellness care, or preventive treatments
- Bilateral conditions (e.g., hip dysplasia, cruciate ligament issues) are not covered
- Not ideal for pets with chronic illnesses requiring long-term treatment
- Multiple low deductible options
- Dental illness coverage included
- Unlimited+ plan has no waiting periods for preventive care
- Multi-pet discount and loyalty discount after the first year
- Multiple low deductible options
- Dental illness coverage included
- Unlimited+ plan has no waiting periods for preventive care
- Multi-pet discount and loyalty discount after the first year
OVMA Pet Health Insurance offers three plans: Comprehensive, Extended, and Unlimited+, all with 80% reimbursement after the deductible. Unlike many providers, OVMA includes exam fees and taxes, reducing out-of-pocket costs. The standout Unlimited+ plan has no annual limits for accidents and illnesses, making it one of the most comprehensive options in Canada.
All plans cover accidents, illnesses, surgeries, diagnostics, medications, hospitalization, and dental (up to $600/year depending on the plan). The Unlimited+ plan also includes annual wellness coverage ($450 for dogs, and $350 for cats). Additional benefits include alternative therapies, behavioural treatments, boarding fees, holiday cancellation, and cremation/burial expenses. While claims are reimbursed, OVMA does offer direct vet pay by request.
Created by the Ontario Veterinary Medical Association, OVMA stands out for its unlimited coverage, built-in wellness care, and non-medical perks. Lower-tier plans have condition-based annual caps, and customization is limited—reimbursement rates are fixed. Premiums for the Unlimited+ plan are higher, but the breadth of coverage and loyalty discounts (3% after year one, 5% after year two) add long-term value.
Ideal Profile: Best for pet owners who want premium coverage with no limits on accident and illness claims. Unlimited+ is ideal for pets with ongoing medical needs or owners who want wellness coverage included. Lower-tier plans suit pet parents seeking solid but capped protection. Not ideal for those looking for customizable reimbursement rates or lower-cost plans with unlimited benefits.
- Unlimited accident and illness coverage in the Unlimited+ plan
- Covers exam fees and taxes, reducing out-of-pocket costs
- Includes dental care ($300–$600 per year)
- Alternative therapies and behavioural training covered
- Wellness coverage is included in Unlimited+ ($450 for dogs, $350 for cats)
- Loyalty discount (3% after one year, 5% after two years)
- Direct vet-pay option available upon request
- Lower-tier plans have per-condition annual limits ($2,500–$5,000)
- No customization of reimbursement percentage (fixed at 80%)
- Wellness coverage only included in Unlimited+
- Unlimited+ premiums may be higher than basic coverage options
Are you searching for the best cat insurance in Canada to ensure your feline friend gets top-notch care? You're in the right place! Our guide to the best cat insurance in Canada will help you navigate through the options and find the perfect plan.
From comprehensive coverage for accidents and illnesses to flexible premiums and essential add-ons, we’ve got the information you need to make an informed decision. You can also use our free comparator at the top of this page to compare the best car insurance quotes from Canada's best companies.
Top 6 best cat insurance in Canada for 2025
- Fetch cat insurance: Extensive dental coverage
- Trupanion cat Insurance: Unlimited coverage without payout limits
- Desjardins cat Insurance: Three plans to suit your pet needs
- Pets Plus Us Pet Insurance: Wide range of treatments and conditions covered
- Furkin Pet Insurance: Up to $20,000 coverage every year
- PHI Direct cat Insurance: Cheapest monthly premium
Fetch cat insurance: Extensive dental coverage
Fetch is an esteemed pet insurance company that has been providing reliable protection for cats and dogs since its establishment in 2007.
Affordability is a key aspect of Fetch Pet Insurance, offering various discount options to ensure manageable monthly premiums. Their coverage is designed to address unforeseen accidents and illnesses, prioritizing the well-being of cats and dogs at all stages of life.
The company offers premiums starting around $25 per month for cats and lower for kittens. While unlimited coverage is not available, Fetch provides a substantial annual maximum of $15,000, offering protection for a wide range of pet-related issues.
Fetch lets you choose from annual deductibles of $250, $300, and $500, and coverage limits of $5,000, $10,000, and $15,000, and reimbursement rates of 70%, 80%, and 90%.
Fetch's notable features include extensive dental coverage, pet owner assistance, and valuable inclusions like lost pet advertising and boarding during medical emergencies. Fetch also provides attractive discounts for cat owners, such as a 10% off for shelter rescues or adopted cats, as well as a 10% discount for active or retired service members.
Pros of Fetch Pet Insurance
- Comprehensive coverage for various conditions, treatments
- Flexible pricing options based on deductible, coverage, reimbursement
- Exclusive access to Fetch Forward technology for personalized advice
- Fast and easy claim process with prompt payment
- Extensive dental coverage
- No enrolment fee and a flexible cancellation policy
Cons of Fetch Pet Insurance
- Does not cover pre-existing conditions
- Lack of coverage for routine preventative care
- No multi-pet discount
- Not available in New Brunswick and Quebec
- No vet direct pay
What does Fetch cover?
Here's an overview of what's covered under this policy.
- Veterinary Exam Fees
- Emergency Vet Visits
- Specialist Vet Visits
- Comprehensive Dental
- Breed-specific Conditions
- Complete Sick Visit
- Injuries & Illnesses
- Virtual Vet Visits
- Diagnostic Tests
- Imaging & Ultrasound
- Holistic & Chiropractic care
- Behavioural Therapy
- Cancer Treatment
- Surgery & Rehabilitation
Watch out!
Fetch, like other pet insurance companies, excludes coverage for pre-existing conditions. They also exclude expenses related to breeding, pregnancy, and whelping. Cruciate ligament issues or hip dysplasia during the first six months of the policy are not covered. Additionally, prescription diet foods, routine vet visits, elective procedures, and cosmetic surgeries are not included.
You can get a quick cat insurance quote from our partner Fetch in just a few seconds:
Trupanion cat Insurance: Unlimited coverage without payout limits
Trupanion Pet Insurance, a renowned player in the pet insurance industry since 1998, stands out with its unique Lifetime Policy.
With an impressive claim payout of nearly $2 billion, Trupanion offers unlimited coverage for cats without per-incident, annual, or lifetime payout limits. Their reimbursement rate of 90% ensures that a significant portion of your veterinary expenses will be covered.
Trupanion allows you to customize your deductible, ranging from $0 to $1,000, enabling you to select a monthly cost that fits your budget. A notable feature of Trupanion is its lifetime per condition deductible, meaning you only pay the deductible once when your cat develops a new condition.
While routine wellness care is not covered, Trupanion prioritizes efficient service and offers the convenience of paying your veterinarian directly before you leave. It's important to keep in mind that Trupanion's plans do not include wellness coverage, as their focus is primarily on essential medical expenses. Routine exam fees and preventive treatments are considered part of standard administrative expenses and are therefore not covered.
Pros of Trupanion Pet Insurance
- 90% reimbursement
- Unlimited coverage without payout limits
- Customisable deductible from $0 to $1,000
- Per medical condition lifetime deductible
- Vet direct pay option
- 24/7 support from award-winning customer care team
Cons of Trupanion Pet Insurance
- Does not cover pre-existing conditions
- Relatively higher premiums
- Limited coverage options compared to some competitors
- Does not include wellness and preventative/routine care
- Does not cover exam fees
What does Trupanion cover?
Here's an overview of what's covered under this policy.
- Hereditary conditions
- Undiagnosed issues
- Congenital conditions
- Diagnostic tests
- Surgeries
- Hospital stays
- Medications
- Veterinary supplements
- Herbal therapy
- Prosthetic devices and carts
- Orthotics
- Breed-specific conditions
Watch out!
Trupanion pet insurance does not provide coverage for pre-existing conditions. In addition, it excludes exam fees, wellness care (including parasite control, spaying/neutering, and vaccinations), elective procedures like declawing, as well as costs related to cremation, burial, and post-mortem expenses.
Desjardins cat Insurance: Three plans to suit your pet needs
Since its launch in January 2013, the Desjardins Pet Insurance Program has been providing comprehensive coverage specifically tailored for cats and dogs.
Underwritten by Petline Insurance, a reputable provider with a 28-year history of insuring over 1.2 million pets, Desjardins Pet Insurance ensures reliable protection for your feline companions.
Desjardins Pet Insurance offers three distinct cat and dog insurance plans: Bronze Paw, Silver Paw, and Gold Paw. The Silver Paw and Gold Paw plans offer extensive coverage for dental care and cleanings, promoting the overall oral health of your cats.
For those opting for the Bronze Paw plan, there is an option to add $500 coverage specifically for dental care. While the maximum coverage amounts may be slightly lower for the Bronze Paw plan at $2,000 and the Silver Paw plan at $4,000, these plans still provide substantial coverage for various cat-related expenses (excluding the Gold Paw unlimited plan).
Policyholders with three or more cats can enjoy a 10% discount on their monthly premiums, making it more cost-effective to insure multiple feline friends under Desjardins Pet Insurance.
Pros of Desjardins Pet Insurance
- Desjardins has a comprehensive online portal
- They offer three plans to suit your pet's needs
- You can insure a pet at any age
Cons of Desjardins Pet Insurance
- There are no discounts available
- Behavioural, alternative therapies and medical device coverage are add-ons
What does Desjardins Pet insurance cover?
Here's an overview of what's covered under this policy.
- X-rays
- Hospitalisation
- Veterinary diagnostics and treatment
- Prescription drugs
- Surgery
- MRIs
- Chemotherapy
- Preventive care coverage
- Dental care
- Behavioural therapy (add-on)
- Alternative therapy (add-on)
Watch out!
Desjardins Pet Insurance does not cover pre-existing conditions. Additionally it does not provide coverage for flea control, pet food, including prescription diet and therapeutic nutrition if any. At the same time, it doesn't cover spaying or neutering, euthanasia (unless it is due to a recommendation associated with an insured incident or illness).
PetsPlusUs Pet Insurance: Wide range of treatments and conditions covered
PetsPlusUs caters to diverse needs by offering two comprehensive plans and the option to add wellness benefits through the Flex Care policy. The accident and illness plan offers coverage options of $7,500 or $15,000, while the accident insurance plan provides coverage of $5,000, offering enhanced value compared to similar plans in the market.
An advantageous feature of PetsPlusUs plans is the absence of special waiting periods, ensuring prompt coverage for your cats. They also offer the convenience of direct payment to the veterinarian for expensive cases, simplifying the claims process.
Cat owners can customize their monthly premiums by selecting deductible and reimbursement rate options that align with their specific requirements.
Reimbursement options are flexible as well. For the accident and illness plan, pet owners can choose reimbursement rates of 70%, 80%, or 90% of the veterinary bill, including taxes. The accident insurance plan has a fixed reimbursement rate of 80%.
PetsPlusUs takes pride in its 4Life Guarantee, ensuring continuous benefit renewal throughout your cat's lifetime. They cover all breeds and breed-associated health conditions, except pre-existing conditions.
Setting itself apart from the competition, PetsPlusUs offers member discounts through partnerships with esteemed organizations like Costco and CAA. Costco Pet Insurance provides a 15% discount for Executive Members and a 10% discount for Gold Star and Business Members.
Pros of PetsPlusUs Pet Insurance
- Three annual policy limits and deductibles
- 24/7 PetHelpFone and Pet Poison Helpline
- Wide range of treatments and conditions covered
- Vet direct pay option available for expensive procedures
- Multi-pet discount
- Diverse affiliate program
Cons of PetsPlusUs Pet Insurance
- Does not cover pre-existing conditions
- No dental and wellness coverage
- Age-based deductible as your pet gets older
- Maximum coverage is $15,000.
What does PetsPlusUs cover?
Well, here's an overview of what's covered under this policy.
Accident-Only Plan
- Consultations
- Exams
- Emergency care
- Hospitalisation
- Drugs
- Surgery
- Anaesthesia
- Specialist referrals by a licensed veterinarian
- Pet boarding fees
- Holiday trip cancellation
- Lost pet advertising and reward
- Cremation/burial
Accident and Illness Plan
- Illness
- Injuries and accidents
- Hospitalisation
- Surgery
- Hereditary conditions
- Diagnostics
- Prescription medications
- Alternative therapies
- Behavioural therapies
- Pet boarding fees
- Holiday trip cancellation
- Lost pet advertising and reward
- Euthanasia and cremation/burial
Watch out!
PetsPlusUs' Accident & Illness Pet Insurance policy excludes dental care, reproductive health, experimental treatments, wellness/preventative care (unless Flex Care plan is added), pre-existing conditions (similar to other insurers), and conditions within waiting periods of 48 hours for accidents and 14 days for illnesses. The Accident Insurance policy does not cover illnesses, routine preventive care, pre-existing conditions, non-accident-related issues, or accidents within the initial 48-hour waiting period.
Furkin Pet Insurance: Up to $20,000 coverage every year
Furkin Pet Insurance is a trusted and comprehensive choice for pet owners across Canada, dedicated to nurturing the special bond between pets and their families. With a team of experienced experts in pet health and insurance, Furkin ensures reliable coverage and support.
What sets Furkin apart is its unlimited 'per condition' benefits, offering comprehensive protection for your beloved cat. This means that your annual coverage can be utilized for multiple illnesses or accidents throughout the year, providing peace of mind.
Furkin gives you the flexibility to choose the deductible that suits you best, allowing you to have control over your monthly premium. Their Lifetime Coverage has no caps on eligible conditions, ensuring continuous coverage year after year, regardless of ongoing or recurring health issues.
With automatic annual renewals, Furkin simplifies the process, ensuring your cat remains protected without any interruptions.
Furkin's policy provides a generous $20,000 annual maximum benefit, without per incident or per illness limits. This means that your cat can receive necessary care and treatment without financial constraints hindering their well-being.
To offer additional support, Furkin provides 24/7 access to a Telehealth hotline staffed by knowledgeable veterinary nurses. This gives you professional guidance whenever you need it.
As a Furkin policyholder, you also receive a complimentary subscription to Petriage, an invaluable online pet triaging software that helps you assess your cat's health and provide appropriate care.
Furkin Pet Insurance ensures that you have the comprehensive coverage, financial security, and expert support needed to provide the best care for your furry companion.
Pros of Furkin Pet Insurance
- Up to $20,000 coverage every year
- No ‘per condition’ limits
- Flexible deductibles
- Coverage renews each year
- 24/7 Telehealth pet health hotline
- Multi-pet discount of 5%
Cons of Furkin Pet Insurance
- Does not cover pre-existing conditions
- Does not cover pets older than 14 years at enrollment
- Does not cover wellness or preventive care
- Not available in Quebec
What does Furkin cover?
Well, here's an overview of what's covered under this policy.
- Alternative Therapies
- Anaesthesia and Surgery
- Dental Injuries
- Diagnostics
- Emergency Care
- Exam Fees
- Prescription Medications
- Referral and Specialist Fees
- Hereditary and Congenital Conditions
- Hospitalisation
- Imaging - CT scans, MRI and X-Rays
- Medical Procedures
- Applicable Taxes
- Lost Pet Advertising and Reward
- Coverage While Travelling
- Boarding Fees
- Holiday Trip Cancellation
- Prescription Foods
- Euthanasia Costs
Watch out!
Furkin, like other pet insurance companies, has exclusions for pre-existing conditions and symptoms before enrollment or within waiting periods. It does not cover behavioural problems, cosmetic procedures, vaccinations, routine care, preventive dental treatment, and innovative therapies. At the same time, it also excludes pregnancy or whelping expenses, spaying or neutering, organ or tissue transplants.
PHI Direct cat Insurance: Cheapest monthly premium
PHI Direct, a well-established insurance brand with over 20 years of experience in pet health and insurance, offers affordable and reliable coverage.
With PHI Direct Pet Insurance, pet owners can enjoy coverage of up to 80%. The annual policy limits, available in options of $5,000 or $10,000, provide financial protection and flexibility to suit various budgets and needs.
PHI Direct's comprehensive coverage includes essential services such as taxes, examination fees, prescription medications, treatment for breed-specific conditions, alternative therapies, dental treatments for tooth fractures, parasite treatments, and more.
Setting themselves apart, PHI Direct offers a low deductible of $200, ensuring affordability for cat owners. Additionally, they provide a 5% multi-pet discount, making it even more cost-effective to protect multiple furry family members.
A notable feature of PHI Direct is their unique 'New-Condition' Coverage. This coverage specifically addresses the initial high costs associated with diagnosing and treating a new illness or injury in your cats and dogs.
By covering the first 12 months of a new condition, PHI Direct helps cat owners manage their budgets for ongoing care of chronic conditions or future treatments in subsequent policy years.
According to the 2021 North American Pet Health Insurance Association (NAPHIA) Industry Data Report, PHI Direct offers significantly lower average premiums, with approximately 45.8% less for dog insurance and 37.7% less for cat insurance.
Pros of PHI Direct Pet Insurance
- Cheapest monthly premium
- Vet direct pay available
- 24/7 access to Telehealth phone care
- Two affordable plans with one low deductible
- 5% multi-pet discount
Cons of PHI Direct Pet Insurance
- Does not cover pre-existing conditions
- Time-limited coverage: 1-year coverage
- Condition in first year becomes pre-existing condition in new year
- Not available in Quebec
What does PHI Direct cover?
Here's an overview of what's covered under this policy.
- Accidents
- Alternative Therapies
- Anaesthesia and Surgery
- Behavioural Therapy
- Coverage while Traveling
- Dental Tooth Fracture
- Diagnostics
- Emergency Care
- Exam Fees
- Hospitalisations
- Illnesses (New)
- Imaging - CT scans, MRI, and X-Rays
- Medical Devices
- Medical Procedures
- Prescription Medications
- Referral Specialist Fees
- Parasites
- Surgeries
Watch out!
PHI Direct does not offer coverage for pre-existing conditions. It's important to note that if a condition arises during a policy year, it will be considered a pre-existing condition in subsequent policy years. This includes any related or bilateral conditions under the "New-Condition Coverage" clause.
What is cat insurance?
Cat insurance is a type of health insurance for your cat, protecting your furry companion and your wallet from hardship should they get injured or sick. It essentially covers any costs associated with your cat’s health.
You may be thinking that the cost of animal medical care is far from that of humans, but most people have health insurance for their pets, and the vet costs can quickly rocket if you have an animal in need of long-term care. That’s where cat insurance comes in, so you can relax knowing that your feline is protected. There are a wide variety of providers to choose from, and the best way to find the right policy for you is to use our comparison tool at the top of this page.
Annually, each Canadian spends around $3,200 on their kitten and $2,500 on their cat. A big part of those costs is from veterinary care like vaccination, checkups and unexpected health problems.
For the average Canadian, cat insurance means being prepared for the unexpected and having the power to act when it comes to the health of their cat.
Let's take a look at some typical vet costs in Canada:
| Procedure | Cost |
|---|---|
| Routine check-ups and vaccines | $397 |
| Dental work | $150 - $1,500 |
| Flea treatments and heartworm medicine | $127 |
| De-worming | $50 |
| Microchipping | $70+ |
How much is cat insurance?
Like most insurance, the cost of cat insurance in Canada varies. How much you pay and what is covered will depend on the policy you purchase. Price varies depending on what is covered, your reimbursement rate, the deductible and the annual payout limit.
Example of cat insurance cost
Below, you can see how much cat insurance costs for Canada’s most common breed using Fetch insurance as an example:
| Age | Max annual payout | Max annual deductible | Reimbursement | Monthly premium |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| <11 months | $5,000 | $400 | 70% | $23.78 |
| <11 months | $15,000 | $250 | 90% | $50.90 |
| 5 years | $5,000 | $400 | 70% | $31.85 |
| 5 years | $15,000 | $250 | 90% | $70.95 |
Most insurers provide coverage nationally, so there is no reason why cat insurance in BC should be more or less expensive than cat insurance in Ontario. Cat insurance is, however, typically less expensive than insurance for dogs. It does pay to compare insurance providers, including Trupanion and others, to get the best coverage at the best price.
8 tips for cheap cat insurance
When it comes to finding cheap cat insurance in Canada, consider these eight tips:
- Opt for Accident-Only Coverage: Accident-only insurance plans are often cheaper than comprehensive coverage options.
- Customise Your Policy: Tailor your policy to your cat's specific needs to avoid paying for unnecessary coverage.
- Adjust Deductibles and Reimbursement Rates: Choosing higher deductibles and lower reimbursement rates can lower your premiums, though it may result in higher out-of-pocket expenses when filing a claim.
- Seek Discounts: Look for multi-pet discounts when insuring multiple cats with the same provider.
- Bundle Insurance Policies: Bundling your cat insurance with other types of insurance may qualify you for additional discounts.
- Explore Membership Clubs: Check if membership clubs like Costco offer exclusive savings on cat insurance rates.
- Enrol Early: Enrolling your cat at a young age can lead to lower premiums as insurance rates are typically more affordable for kittens and younger cats.
- Maintain Your Pet's Health: Some insurance providers offer diminishing deductibles as a reward for keeping your cat in good health.
How does cat insurance work?
Cat insurance in Canada helps reduce the financial burden of planned and unforeseen veterinary costs or eliminates it entirely. Using the comparison tool on top and choosing the best policy for you buys you peace of mind and is often the only way pet owners can afford to do the right thing for their cat’s health and comfort.
Once you’ve chosen the best policy for you and your cat, the insurance provider will calculate a premium (based on several factors such as your cat’s age and breed) that you will pay each month.
Watch out!
There will often be a waiting period after you purchase a policy before your coverage kicks in. Any medical treatment in this period will not be covered by the provider.
Usually, you will have to pay upfront for any costs and will be reimbursed by the provider. Rates of reimbursement are typically between 80% and 100%. Although getting the cash to pay out of pocket may not be ideal, being reimbursed means you don’t have to go through the added stress of finding a vet that partners with your insurer. Any licensed vet clinic or animal hospital will do.
Some providers also offer a 24-hour helpline that you can call for advice or for help finding a vet.
Expert advice
Insurance companies almost always ask you for all the paperwork associated with your claim, so remember to keep all your receipts and documentation from the vet.
When to buy cat insurance?
The best time to secure insurance for your cat is when they are young, ideally a kitten. Many cats will have at least one medical emergency in their lifetime, which is the reason why veterinarians recommend getting coverage as soon as possible. Most pet owners in Canada buy cat health insurance earlier than 6 months after getting their cat.
Each breed has its health risks, and each stage of a cat’s life comes with its own hazards. Pet insurers will rarely cover a pre-existing condition. That’s why it’s so important to start your coverage while your cat is young.
Also, the younger your cat is when they get insured, the cheaper your insurance policy gets.
What does cat insurance cover?
Pet health insurance in Canada covers a variety of emergency and longer-term treatments for your cat. The availability of the treatments and the amount reimbursed will depend on your policy’s coverage.
Accident and illness coverage
If your cat suffers an accident or becomes unwell, most insurers will cover the costs of:
- X-rays
- Short stays for monitoring
- Emergency diagnosis
- Prescriptions
- Any surgery they may need
- MRI and other scans
- Chemotherapy
For example
Pookie is a 5-year-old Ragdoll. She lives with Jessica, her owner, who got cat insurance in Calgary as soon as she moved there. One day, as Jessica turned on the vacuum cleaner, Pookie got frightened and jumped from the top of the cat tree and hurt her paw. At the vet, Jessica discovered her cat sprained her paw. Luckily, Jessica’s pet insurance covers her in situations like these. The total vet bill comes to $800, including Pookie’s treatment. After paying the deductible ($250), Jessica gets reimbursed 90% of the remaining bill, meaning she ends up paying less than $300 dollars.
Preventative care coverage
Preventative medicine is always more effective (and cheaper in the long run) than reactive medicine. However, usually, only comprehensive insurance plans will cover these kinds of treatments, including:
- Annual examinations
- Vaccines
- Flea treatments
- Urinalysis and fecal analysis
- Heartworm treatment
For example
Amber and John have just got a kitten from the animal shelter in Montreal. One day, while they have guests over, one of their visitors feeds their kitten chocolate, unaware that it’s toxic to cats. At first, the kitten suffers from vomiting and diarrhea, but the symptoms quickly include seizures. John rushes the cat to the animal hospital, and thankfully, the kitten is alright. The bill comes to $1,200 as the kitten has to stay in the hospital overnight. Amber and John’s pet insurance covers their Montreal kitten, and they only have to pay $345.
What isn’t covered by cat insurance?
Cat insurance does not typically cover:
- Routine check-ups
- Any conditions the insurer deems to be pre-existing
- Wellness exam fees
- Vaccinations
- Spay/neuter
- Microchip
- Parasite prevention
- Routine lab work
- Cat insurance doesn't cover dental cleaning
Good to know
Some insurance companies offer pet wellness plans that reimburse you for common, expected procedures such as vaccination and most routine tests.
What should I consider when choosing cat insurance?
In Canada, pet owners have many options to choose from when it comes to cat insurance to protect their furry friends and prevent a blow to their wallets.
Here are the main factors to consider when choosing the best cat insurance for you:
- Age: the younger the cat, the cheaper the premium and overall insurance will be. Also, an older cat is more likely to develop a health condition. Note that insurers never cover pre-existing conditions.
- Breed: Some breeds are more expensive to insure than others. For example, cat insurance for Bengal and Ragdoll cats costs more than for mixed breeds or Domestic shorthairs.
- Gender: When it comes to insurance, male cats are more expensive than female cats. Also, spayed females have the lowest premiums.
- Deductible: the higher the deductible, the cheaper the premium. However, note that your insurance will only start to reimburse your vet costs after you reach the deductible sum out of your own pocket.
- Location: where you live with your cat will influence how much you pay. Certain homes carry more outdoor risks than others.
- Additional coverage: you can purchase additional coverage such as wellness plans or preventive medicine, though these will naturally increase the cost of your insurance policy.
Good to know
If your pet insurance premiums become a financial burden, most insurers allow you to temporarily change your deductible to keep your premium within budget.
How much is a vet visit for a cat without insurance?
Owning a cat can incur average costs of up to $2,500 a year, assuming regular visits and no unexpected vet bills. A typical vet visit may start at $50, but additional expenses can arise from unforeseen illnesses or routine care.
Additional one-time costs include microchipping, averaging around $110, and vaccinations ranging from $215 to $540, including the vet exam.
Emergency vet visits average from $215 to $1,615, and teeth cleaning can cost around $430 to $645. Therefore, a vet visit might cost you a pretty penny without pet insurance.
Can you get pet insurance for your 10-year-old cat?
Yes, all pet insurers will cover a 10-year-old cat, though they will exclude any pre-existing health conditions, and the premium may be a little more expensive.
Some insurance providers do limit or terminate their coverage for cats above a certain age. To insure cats over the age of 10, you will often need additional medical information and exams, and many insurers limit their coverage of cats to 14 years old, but some policies don’t have a limit.
Remember to read your policy well before purchasing it to know exactly what is covered and until what age.
Now that you have all the information you need about cat insurance, you can go ahead and compare the best cat insurances and also get quick quotes using our comparator below.
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