Best Pet Insurance In Canada For December 2024

What is pet insurance?

Just like we have health insurance for ourselves, pet insurance provides coverage for your pet's medical needs. According to the Ontario Veterinary Medical Association, about half of all pets will face some sort of illness or accident throughout their life, and the resulting treatments can come with hefty price tags. This is where pet insurance steps in to help ease the financial burden of pet ownership and provide you with peace of mind.

When it comes to pet insurance plans, there are generally two main types to choose from accident-only or accident and illness coverage.

1. Accident-only pet insurance provides comprehensive coverage for injury-related vet visits, ensuring your pet receives the necessary care in times of sudden trauma or physical injury. Whether it's a broken bone, foreign body ingestion, poisoning, torn ligaments, or any other related emergency, these plans have you covered.
2. Accident and illness pet insurance goes beyond covering accidents alone; it also protects a range of health conditions that may affect your pet. From common ailments like allergies, arthritis, and ear infections to more serious concerns such as cancer and urinary tract infections, these policies have you covered.

It's important to note that these conditions must generally not have been pre-existing before enrollment and waiting periods.

What does pet insurance cover?

Pet insurance in Canada will cover your pet for costs associated with medical bills stemming from various pet-related expenses. Some plans also offer wellness packages that include preventative care such as checkups, vaccinations, and parasite prevention, but this is far from the norm. For the most part, the vast majority of pet insurance plans will follow the rules outlined below:

What Does Pet Insurance Cover?	What Does Pet Insurance Not Cover?
Accidents and injuries	Pre-existing conditions
Illnesses (e.g., infections, chronic diseases)	Elective or cosmetic procedures (e.g., ear cropping)
Diagnostics (e.g., blood tests, X-rays)	Routine wellness care (e.g., vaccinations, check-ups) without add-on
Surgeries	Breeding or pregnancy-related expenses
Hospitalization	Behavioral treatments (mostly as an add-on)
Prescription medications	Preventive dental cleaning
Specialist visits (e.g., dermatology, orthopedics)	Non-prescription diets and supplements
Emergency and urgent care	Parasite treatments without add-on
Alternative therapies (e.g., acupuncture)	Grooming and boarding costs
Dental illness treatment (varies by plan)	End-of-life expenses (e.g., cremation, burial)

Does pet insurance cover dental?

When it comes to coverage for dental care, it's important to note that it's more commonly offered on higher-tier premium plans. For instance, Trupanion pet insurance offers an optional add-on that reimburses up to 90% of dental expenses for animals.

However, it's crucial to understand that not all pet insurance plans will cover routine dental treatments like exams or cleanings. Typically, dental coverage is limited to treatment directly associated with a covered injury or accident. Some insurance providers may offer additional coverage for preventive dental care through a wellness benefit add-on.

It's essential to carefully review the terms and conditions of different plans to determine the extent of dental coverage they offer. By doing so, you can ensure that your furry friend's dental health needs are adequately addressed and that you're making an informed decision to protect their well-being.

Here are the top pet insurance providers that cover dental care in their plans:

Insurance Provider	Dental Coverage	Coverage Details	Notes
Fetch Pet Insurance		Covers every tooth and gum disease	Excludes routine cleanings unless Wellness Add-on is purchased
Pets Plus Us	(as add-on)	Dental fractures and treatments, dental wellness through Flex Care	Requires Flex Care add-on for wellness coverage, including dental treatments
Trupanion		Covers unexpected dental illnesses and injuries, including extractions and root canals	Covers advanced dentistry, but not routine wellness care
PHI Direct	Limited	Covers dental fractures only	Routine dental care is not included
Furkin Pet Insurance	Limited	Covers dental fractures due to trauma	Routine dental treatments are not covered
OVMA Pet Health Insurance		Covers dental illnesses; wellness plan on Unlimited+ includes cleanings	Six-month waiting period for dental coverage
Sonnet Pet Insurance	Limited	$300 annual limit for dental due to illness or trauma	Six-month waiting period for dental coverage
Desjardins Pet Insurance	(Silver & Gold)	Up to $1,000 annual coverage on Gold Paw plan	Bronze Paw plan includes optional dental add-on
Petsecure		Dental illness and annual cleaning (up to $600 on top plan)	Six-month waiting period applies

You can compare pet insurance quotes from the best companies in Canada using our free tool at the top of this page. You get instant results for free.

Does pet insurance cover vaccines?

Pet insurance generally does not cover vaccines as part of standard accident or illness plans. Vaccinations are considered preventive or routine care, which is typically excluded from basic coverage. However, many pet insurance companies offer wellness or preventive care add-ons that cover vaccinations and other routine services for an additional premium.

Here are some Canadian pet insurance providers that offer vaccine coverage as part of their wellness or preventive care add-ons:

1. Fetch Pet Insurance – Offers wellness add-ons that cover vaccines, annual check-ups, and other preventive care for an additional premium.
2. Pets Plus Us – Provides a "Flex Care" package that includes vaccination coverage, routine check-ups, and preventive treatments for pet owners who choose to add it on.
3. Petsecure Pet Insurance – Includes vaccines in its optional wellness coverage, which also covers routine exams, flea treatments, and dental cleanings.
4. OVMA Pet Insurance – Has a wellness add-on under the "Unlimited+" plan, which covers vaccinations, dental care, and other preventive services.
5. Spot Pet Insurance – Offers an optional wellness rider that covers vaccinations, spay/neuter, and routine check-ups, although coverage details and availability may vary by region.
6. Furkin Pet Insurance – Includes vaccinations and other preventive care in its add-on wellness package, offering coverage for annual exams and other routine services.

To get the most comprehensive coverage, consider these wellness add-ons if vaccines and preventive care are priorities.

How much is pet insurance in Canada in 2024?

The average pet insurance cost in Canada is around $24 for cats and $40 for dogs per month. This is based on sample premiums obtained from insurers across Ontario, Alberta, and Quebec.

How is pet insurance cost calculated?

There are a few critical factors that can influence the cost of your pet insurance:

1. Pet's breed: Certain pets are more susceptible to specific conditions. Great Danes are prone to hip dysplasia, which may result in higher insurance costs. In general, larger dogs generally have higher insurance premiums.
2. Pet's age: As pets age, their likelihood of experiencing accidents and illnesses increases. Consequently, insuring older pets tends to be more expensive. Some insurance providers also implement an age-based deductible, raising the deductible amount to offset the higher healthcare costs associated with senior pets.
3. Pet's gender: Female pets may be considered lower risk, potentially leading to lower insurance premiums.
4. Location: Veterinary costs can vary depending on your geographical location. Factors such as improved access to advanced treatment options and higher labour costs can contribute to increased coverage expenses in certain areas. Pet insurance costs in Ontario are typically higher than in other provinces.

How much is pet insurance for dogs?

The average cost of dog insurance in Canada is $40 a month. Like most insurances, the cost of dog insurance in Canada varies depending on the policy. The price depends on what is covered, your reimbursement rate, the deductible, and the annual payout limit. The age and breed of your dog will also affect the cost of health insurance for your dog.

Below, you can see how much dog insurance costs for Canada’s most common breed using Fetch pet insurance as an example. These are pet insurance Ontario quotes.

Age	Max annual payout	Max annual deductible	Reimbursement rate	Monthly premium
<11 months	$5,000	$700	70%	$50.73
<11 months	$15,000	$300	90%	$112.85
5 years	$5,000	$700	70%	$80.17
5 years	$15,000	$300	90%	$182.75

How much is pet insurance for a cat?

The average cost of cat insurance in Canada is $24 a month. The cost of cat insurance in Canada also varies on your cat (is it old or a kitten, healthy or sick), on what is covered, on your reimbursement rate, on the deductible, and the annual payout limit.

Below, you can see how much cat insurance costs for Canada’s most common breed using Fetch pet insurance as an example. These are pet insurance quotes for Ontario.

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

We recommend that you get personalized quotes to assess your exact premiums. Use our tool at the top of this page and compare pet insurance quotes online for free.

What does pet care cost without pet insurance?

While it may initially appear as an additional expense, pet insurance is quite affordable when compared to the potential costs of unexpected vet bills. The table below shows how pet insurance can reduce major medical expenses, making routine and emergency care more affordable.

Expense Category	Average Annual Cost of owning a pet (Without Pet Insurance)	Average Annual Cost of owning a pet (With Pet Insurance)
Routine Vet Visits	$375	$75
Preventive Care (vaccines, flea treatments)	$250	$70
Dental Cleanings	$350	$150
Emergency Care (per incident)	$2,000	$300
Total Estimated Annual Cost	$2,975	$595

How does pet insurance work in Canada?

Understanding how pet insurance works is essential to make informed decisions about your pet's healthcare. Let's break it down in a simple way. When you have pet insurance, the process generally involves reimbursement. Here's a typical scenario:

1. You visit a licensed veterinarian of your choice for your pet's medical needs, such as treating an ear infection.
2. You pay the veterinary bill upfront (unless you have a direct vet pay option as with Trupanion Pet Insurance).
3. Afterward, you submit a claim to your pet insurance company. This typically includes the vet's invoice and medical records.
4. Your insurance provider reviews your claim, considering the specifics of your policy and coverage.
5. If the medical problem is covered, the insurer will reimburse you for eligible expenses.
6. The time it takes to receive reimbursement varies among insurance companies. It can range from the same day for simple cases to around two weeks for more complex situations.

The amount you'll be reimbursed depends on several factors: your coverage limit, reimbursement rate, and deductible. Let's illustrate this with an example:

What is the coverage limit?

In Canada, pet insurance coverage limits refer to the maximum amount an insurance provider will pay out on claims during a set period, typically per year, per condition, or over the lifetime of the policy. These limits vary widely depending on the provider and the plan you select. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Annual Coverage Limit: This is the maximum amount your insurance will cover in total each year, regardless of the number of claims. For example, if you have an annual limit of $5,000, your insurance will pay up to $5,000 in covered expenses each year. So, if your dog has multiple surgeries in one year totalling $6,000, you’d receive $5,000 in reimbursement, and the remaining $1,000 would be out-of-pocket.
2. Per-Condition Limit: This type of limit caps the reimbursement for a specific illness or injury. If you have a per-condition limit of $2,000 and your cat develops diabetes, your insurance will only cover up to $2,000 for all diabetes-related treatments over the life of the policy. This may not be ideal if your pet has a chronic condition requiring long-term care.
3. Lifetime Limit: Some policies have a maximum lifetime limit, capping the amount they’ll pay out over the pet’s entire life. For instance, if the lifetime limit is $15,000, the insurance will reimburse expenses until this total is reached, after which you’ll have to cover all costs.
4. Unlimited Coverage: Higher-end plans, like those offered by providers such as Trupanion, may provide unlimited coverage, meaning there’s no cap on how much you can claim in a year or per condition. This can be beneficial if your pet has significant or ongoing medical needs.

What is a pet insurance deductible and how does it work?

In Canada, a pet insurance deductible is the amount you pay out-of-pocket on vet bills before your insurance coverage kicks in. You can choose a deductible (usually between $0 to $1,000) when you buy your plan.

A lower deductible means you'll pay less upfront, but your monthly premiums will be higher. Most providers may increase the deductible as your pet ages.

You can opt for no deductible, an annual deductible, or a lifetime deductible. An annual deductible means you'll need to meet the deductible multiple times throughout your pet's life, while a lifetime per-condition deductible requires payment for a chronic condition only once.

What is a waiting period in pet insurance?

A waiting period is the time between when you buy your pet insurance policy and when your coverage officially starts. During this waiting period, specific conditions or illnesses may not be covered by your insurance plan.

Let's break down the waiting periods into three categories:

1. Waiting periods for accidents: The duration before your coverage begins for accidents, such as broken bones or swallowed objects. Typically, the waiting period for accidents is 48 hours.
2. Waiting periods for illnesses: The time it takes for coverage to kick in for illnesses like cancer or urinary tract infections. Most pet insurance companies have a standard waiting period of 14 days for illnesses.
3. Waiting periods for other conditions: Certain specific conditions, such as cruciate ligament damage, intervertebral disc disease, or dental coverage, may have their waiting periods. In general, this waiting period can be as long as 180 days. However, it's worth noting that not all companies have waiting periods for these specific conditions. For instance, Pets Plus Us and Trupanion do not impose special waiting periods for cruciate ligaments or intervertebral disc disease.

How much pet insurance coverage do I need?

In Canada, you should consider pet insurance coverage of at least $5,000 to $10,000 annually. This range helps cover rising veterinary costs, which have increased by 23.3% in three years from 2021 to 2024. Assess your pet's breed, age, and health history to choose a plan that provides adequate protection for both accidents and illnesses.

Best Pet Insurance in Canada: A Quick Summary

Pet Insurance Company	Annual Maximum Coverage	Reimbursement Rates	Deductibles	Key Coverage Highlights
Fetch Pet Insurance	$5,000, $10,000, $15,000	70%, 80%, 90%	$300, $500 or $700*	One simple, comprehensive plan Flexible and customizable deductible and reimbursement Extensive dental illness coverage in all plans Pet owner assistance, lost pet advertising, and boarding at no additional cost
Spot Pet Insurance	$5,000, $10,000, Unlimited	70% to 90%**	$100-$300*	Up to 90% reimbursement on vet bills Visit any Vet in Canada or the U.S. Multi-pet & microchipped pet discounts No per-incident cap, unlimited payouts
Trupanion Canada	Unlimited	90%	$0 to $1,000	90% of vet bill covered and paid at checkout One comprehensive plan with unlimited coverage No age-based deductible No payout limits for the life of your pet
Desjardins Pet Insurance	$4,000, $8,000, Unlimited	80%	$100*	Low $100 deductible Generous dental illness coverage Multi-pet discount Discounts on premiums after first year
Pets Plus Us	$5,000 (Accident only), $7,500, $15,000	70%, 80%, 90%	$100-$700*	Flexible reimbursement and deductible Benefits automatically renew each year for pet's lifetime No breed exclusions Extensive additional benefits like boarding, lost pet advertising, holiday trip cancellation
Furkin	$20,000	80%	$100, $300, $750*	Single, straightforward plan with up to $20,000 coverage Low $100 deductible option Multi-pet discount No per-condition limits
Peppermint Pet Insurance	$1,500, $3,000, $5,000, $10,000	80%	$100*	Four plans with various coverage limits for different budgets Low deductible of $100 Lower monthly premiums Alternative therapies and behavioural therapy included in most plans
OVMA Pet Health Insurance	Unlimited, $5,000, $2,500	80%	$100-$400*	Designed by Ontario vets Dental coverage included in all plans Loyalty discounts after first year No waiting period for preventive care with Unlimited+ plan
PHI Direct	$5,000, $10,000	80%	$200	Lower premiums than most competitors Low $200 deductible Alternative and behavioural therapy included in base plan 24/7 access to telehealth care
Sonnet	$5,000	80%	$100, $300*	Lower monthly premiums than most competitors Low deductible of $100 Alternative and behavioural therapies covered without additional cost Includes travel coverage in U.S. and Canada, and boarding fees
Petsecure	$2,000, $5,000, $10,000, Unlimited	80%	$100-$400*	Four plan options for different budgets Good dental coverage with cleanings Multi-pet discount Multiple deductible options

• *Deductible is age-based.
• * *Reimbursement is age-based

What are the benefits and drawbacks of pet insurance in Canada?

Pros	Cons
Cost savings on veterinary bills Comprehensive coverage options Peace of mind Choose your preferred veterinarian Coverage for all breeds and older pets	Routine visits may not be covered Out-of-pocket costs may still apply Pre-existing conditions are typically not covered Reimbursement process and upfront payments Consider your needs and usage Breed exclusion

Benefits of Pet Insurance

• Cost savings on veterinary bills: By having pet insurance, you can potentially save thousands of dollars on veterinary expenses that would otherwise come out of your pocket. For instance, if your pet develops a condition like hip dysplasia, the long-term cost of medications and surgery can exceed $7,800. However, with the right policy offering coverage of $10,000, an 80% reimbursement rate, and a $100 deductible, your expenses would be significantly reduced to $1,660.
• Comprehensive coverage options: With more inclusive policies, such as those that cover dental care, you are more likely to prioritize your pet's regular check-ups and preventive care.
• Peace of mind: Pet insurance grants you the confidence that, in the event of an accident or illness, you can afford the necessary treatment for your pet. This peace of mind allows you to make decisions based on what's best for your pet's health rather than being constrained by financial concerns.
• Choose your preferred veterinarian: Pet health insurance allows you to select the veterinarian you trust and prefer to treat your beloved furry friend. This gives you control over your pet's healthcare decisions.
• Coverage for all breeds and older pets: While it's recommended to get coverage early to secure lower premiums, you can still obtain coverage for your pet even years later. However, note that as pets age, the likelihood of pre-existing conditions increases, which may be excluded from coverage.

Drawbacks of Pet Insurance

• Routine visits may not be covered: Many policies do not include coverage for routine checkups and vaccinations, which means you'll need to cover these expenses out-of-pocket.
• Out-of-pocket costs may still apply: Even with a comprehensive coverage policy, it's essential to understand that not all treatments or procedures may be covered. There may be certain exclusions or limitations to the coverage provided.
• Pre-existing conditions are typically not covered: If your pet has been diagnosed with pre-existing conditions such as allergies or cancer before obtaining insurance, any related treatment expenses may not be covered.
• Reimbursement process and upfront payments: Some providers require you to pay the veterinarian directly and then submit a reimbursement claim. It's important to familiarize yourself with the reimbursement process and understand the turnaround times for receiving the reimbursement.
• Consider your needs and usage: Be mindful that you may end up paying for benefits that you may not fully utilize. So, it's essential to find a balance that aligns with your pet's health and your budget.
• Breed exclusion: Breed-specific exclusions refer to limitations imposed by insurance companies on coverage for hereditary illnesses that are common in certain breeds. For instance, large dog breeds like Great Danes may be susceptible to conditions like hip dysplasia, while Dalmatians may be prone to urinary tract issues. These breed-related health concerns may not be covered by pet insurance policies with breed exclusions.

Is pet insurance worth it in Canada?

Pet insurance is definitely worth considering, especially with the rising costs of pet care in Canada. According to a recent survey conducted by HelloSafe, the average annual cost of owning a dog is now $3,020, a 23.3% increase over the past three years.

For larger dogs, expenses can reach up to $4,605 per year, with food and vet bills being the biggest contributors. Veterinary care alone for larger breeds can be twice as much as for smaller dogs, and emergency treatments or surgeries can quickly add up.

Pet insurance can be a lifesaver by covering unexpected vet bills and bringing down these costs by at least 50%, letting you focus on your pet’s health without the financial strain.

Read our full report on how the cost of owning a dog in Canada has changed since 2021.

How to get the cheapest pet insurance in Canada?

To get the most affordable pet insurance in Canada while still ensuring your pet is well-covered, here are some tips to consider:

1. Choose an Accident-Only Plan: If you’re mainly worried about sudden injuries, an accident-only plan is often much cheaper than a full-coverage policy. It covers emergencies like fractures or injuries without including illness coverage.
2. Pick a Higher Deductible: Plans with higher deductibles have lower monthly premiums. If you’re prepared to cover a larger portion of costs upfront, this can significantly reduce your premium.
3. Opt for Lower Coverage Limits: If your pet is young and healthy, choosing a plan with a lower annual limit can save you money. You can always increase coverage as they age or if they develop medical needs.
4. Check for Discounts: Many companies offer discounts for multiple pets, adoption from a shelter, or for being part of certain organizations. Ask about any available savings when you’re comparing quotes.
5. Avoid Add-Ons Unless Needed: Additional wellness or dental coverage is useful but not essential for everyone. Skipping these add-ons can make your plan cheaper, especially if you don’t expect frequent preventive visits.
6. Use a Comparison Tool: Online comparison tools let you quickly check multiple quotes, helping you find the best value plan for your budget and your pet’s needs.

You can start comparing pet insurance quotes from Canada's best companies right here. Use our free HelloSafe tool at the top of this page to get personalized pet insurance quotes and the best deals based on your unique needs.

FAQs on Pet Insurance in Canada

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