Best Cat Insurance in Canada in 2024

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Rating
4.9
Features
Deductible
$300, $500 or $700 age-based annual deductible
Coverage
90% reimbursement for accidents and illnesses
Payout limit
Three options: $5,000, $10,000, $15,000
Age Limits
Pets must be at least 6 weeks
What's included
Fetch does not serve Quebec users
  • Injuries, illnesses, dental illnesses
  • Veterinary fees
  • Surgeries and emergency care
  • Cancer treatment
  • Advertising/rewards for lost or stolen pets
With our sponsored partner Fetch
Our detailed review

Fetch Pet Insurance is a pet insurance company that provides comprehensive coverage for dogs and cats in Canada and the U.S. Fetch Pet Insurance covers injuries, illnesses, emergency care, prescription medications, dental care, breed-specific issues and more. It pays back up to 90% of unexpected vet bills and allows customers to use any veterinarian they want. Fetch Pet Insurance also offers a patent-pending technology called Fetch Forward that gives customers tailored insights and recommendations for their pets’ future health based on data from 15 years of clinical health findings. Fetch has a fast and easy claim process that can be done online or through the app, and customers can get paid back in as little as two days via direct deposit.

Read our detailed review
  • Comprehensive coverage for a wide range of conditions and treatments
  • Flexible pricing options based on deductible, annual coverage amount, and reimbursement rate
  • Wellness plan available
  • Fast and easy claim process and payment
  • Does not cover pre-existing conditions
  • No multi-pet discount
  • Only available in Canada and the U.S.
Rating
4.7
Features
Deductible
$100 - $700 age-based annual deductible
Coverage
Reimbursement level of 70%, 80%, or 90%
Payout limit
Annual limit of $15,000
Age Limits
Pet must be at least 7 weeks old to enroll
What's included
  • Accidents and illnesses
  • Exam fees and taxes
  • Hereditary conditions
  • Multi-pet discount
In agency
Our detailed review

Pets Plus Us is a pet insurance company that provides coverage for dogs and cats in Canada. It was designed by veterinarians and pet owners. Pets Plus Us offers two main plans: Accident & Illness and Accident. The Accident & Illness plan covers up to 90% of eligible veterinary treatment costs due to accidents or illnesses up to an annual policy limit of $7,500 or $15,000. The Accident plan covers 80% of eligible veterinary treatment costs due to accidents only up to an annual policy limit of $5,000. Plans cover taxes, exam fees, prescription medications, hereditary and congenital conditions, dental injuries, alternative therapies, and more. They also have a choice of three annual deductibles for the Accident & Illness plan. There is a multi-pet discount, and there is no upper age limit to enroll a pet.
However, Pets Plus Us also has some drawbacks. It does not cover pre-existing conditions or wellness or preventive care unless a Flex Care plan is added. It has no live chat support.

Read our detailed review
  • Coverage for a wide range of conditions and treatments
  • Choice of three annual policy limits and deductibles
  • Designed by veterinarians and pet owners
  • Includes Blue Ribbon Benefits such as 24/7 PetHelpFone and Pet Poison Helpline
  • Does not cover pre-existing conditions
  • Does not cover wellness or preventive care, unless Flex Care is added
Rating
4.7
Features
Deductible
$100 - $300 age-based annual deductible
Coverage
70% to 90% (age-based)
Payout limit
Unlimited
Age Limits
No mention of a specific age
What's included
  • No per-incident or lifetime caps
  • Short waiting periods for faster coverage activation
  • Optional wellness coverage available for routine care
  • Low $100 deductible for affordable out-of-pocket costs
  • Multi-pet discounts available
In agency
Our detailed review

Spot Pet Insurance Spot Pet Insurance offers both accident-only and comprehensive accident and illness plans with flexible annual limits ranging from $5,000 to unlimited. Reimbursement options vary between 70% and 90%, and deductibles range from $100 to $300, increasing with the pet's age. Coverage includes alternative therapies, behavioral issues, and the option to add wellness coverage. The plans come with competitive premiums and offer multi-pet discounts of 5% for two pets and 10% for three or more pets. However, Spot does not cover dental illnesses and has age-based deductibles and reimbursements. Spot is best for pet owners who want flexible coverage options and the ability to add wellness care.

Read our detailed review
  • Flexible annual limits and deductibles
  • No lifetime caps
  • Shorter waiting periods than most other providers
  • Includes alternative therapies and behavioral coverage
  • Optional wellness coverage
  • Competitive premiums and multi-pet discounts (5% to 10%)
  • Excellent Trust Pilot rating of 4.7
  • Offers accident-only plan
  • No dental illness coverage
  • Age-based deductibles and reimbursements
  • No 24/7 pet health hotline
  • Limited availability in some regions
trupanion-logo
Trupanion
Rating
4.7
Features
Deductible
$0 to $1,000 age-based annual deductible
Coverage
90% reimbursement for accidents and illnesses
Payout limit
None
Age Limits
Can insure eligible pets from birth, but age limit
What's included
  • Care and intervention
  • Diseases and accidents
  • Advertising/reward for a lost or stolen pet
  • Direct payment by veterinarians at participating veterinary hospitals
In agency
Our detailed review

Trupanion is a pet insurance company offering comprehensive coverage for dogs and cats. They provide a unique 'Lifetime' policy that covers chronic and hereditary conditions for the entire lifespan of your pet. Trupanion's coverage includes diagnostics, surgeries, medications, and hospital stays. They have a straightforward claims process and no payout limits. However, Trupanion does not cover pre-existing conditions, and their premiums can be relatively high compared to other providers. While their Lifetime policy is a great benefit, it may not be necessary for all pets.
Overall, Trupanion offers extensive coverage and a simple claims process, but it may not be the most cost-effective option for every pet owner.

Read our detailed review
  • Lifetime coverage for chronic and hereditary conditions.
  • Extensive coverage for veterinary services.
  • Simple and streamlined claims process.
  • No payout limits, ensuring comprehensive coverage.
  • Does not cover pre-existing conditions.
  • Relatively high premiums compared to other providers.
  • Lifetime policy may not be necessary for all pets.
  • Limited coverage options compared to some competitors.
PHI-logo
PHI Direct
Rating
4.5
Features
Deductible
As low as $200 annually
Coverage
80% reimbursement for accidents and illnesses
Payout limit
Up to $10,000 in coverage annually
Age Limits
No mention of a specific age
What's included
  • Illness and accidents
  • Dental care included
  • Behavioural therapy
  • Exams fees
In agency
Our detailed review

PHI Direct is a pet insurance company that provides affordable coverage for dogs and cats in Canada. It partners with Humane Canada, the national voice for animal welfare, and supports no-kill shelters. PHI Direct covers 80% of eligible veterinary treatment costs due to new accidents or illnesses up to an annual policy limit of $5,000 or $10,000. It covers taxes, exam fees, prescription medications, breed-specific conditions, alternative therapies, dental tooth fracture, parasites and more. It has a low deductible of $200 and a multi-pet discount of 5%. PHI Direct also offers 24/7 access to Telehealth phone care, where veterinary nurses can provide pet health advice and guidance.
However, PHI Direct also has some drawbacks. It does not cover pre-existing conditions, wellness or preventive care. It also does not cover any condition experienced in one policy year in future policy years, including any associated or bilateral conditions. This means that some chronic or recurring conditions may not be covered after the first year.

Read our detailed review
  • Affordable coverage for a wide range of conditions and treatments
  • Low deductible and multi-pet discount
  • 24/7 access to Telehealth phone care
  • Partners with Humane Canada and supports no-kill shelters
  • Does not cover pre-existing conditions
  • Does not cover wellness or preventive care
  • Does not cover any condition experienced in one policy year in future policy years
  • Only available in Canada
Show more

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 2024

  1. Fetch cat insurance: Extensive dental coverage
  2. Trupanion cat Insurance: Unlimited coverage without payout limits
  3. Desjardins cat Insurance: Three plans to suit your pet needs
  4. Pets Plus Us Pet Insurance: Wide range of treatments and conditions covered
  5. Furkin Pet Insurance: Up to $20,000 coverage every year
  6. 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:

Get a Fetch Pet Insurance Quote

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:

ProcedureCost
Routine check-ups and vaccines
$397
Dental work
$150 - $1,500
Flea treatments and heartworm medicine
$127
De-worming
$50
Microchipping
$70+
Vet costs for cats Canada

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:

AgeMax annual payoutMax annual deductibleReimbursementMonthly premium
<11 months
$5,000$40070%$23.78
<11 months
$15,000$25090%$50.90
5 years
$5,000$40070%$31.85
5 years
$15,000$25090%$70.95
Cat insurance's price.

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:

  1. Opt for Accident-Only Coverage: Accident-only insurance plans are often cheaper than comprehensive coverage options.
  2. Customise Your Policy: Tailor your policy to your cat's specific needs to avoid paying for unnecessary coverage.
  3. 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.
  4. Seek Discounts: Look for multi-pet discounts when insuring multiple cats with the same provider.
  5. Bundle Insurance Policies: Bundling your cat insurance with other types of insurance may qualify you for additional discounts.
  6. Explore Membership Clubs: Check if membership clubs like Costco offer exclusive savings on cat insurance rates.
  7. 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.
  8. 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

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

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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Nishadh Mohammed
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Nishadh Mohammed is a seasoned news editor and financial writer, working with HelloSafe since May 2023. Nishadh has developed expertise in financial markets, insurance, and investment products, with a deep understanding of the Canadian financial landscape. He has honed his SEO skills and content marketing strategies while writing for Canadian publishing houses. Armed with a master's in Business Analytics and extensive journalistic experience, Nishadh uniquely combines data proficiency and thorough research to deliver comprehensive and accessible information.