Pet Insurance—Are There Breed or Age Restrictions?

Certain dog and cat breeds are more prone to specific hereditary conditions, making them riskier for pet insurance companies to cover. As a result, some insurers impose restrictions or higher premiums for these breeds.

When choosing pet insurance, it’s essential to understand how your pet’s breed may influence coverage.

When choosing an insurer, learn about how they handle the following:

• Pre-existing conditions—Some breeds are more likely to develop conditions such as hip dysplasia, heart disease or respiratory problems. These issues may not be covered if they are pre-existing, meaning the insurer identifies the condition before you take out a policy.

• Exclusions for specific breeds—Certain insurance companies may exclude coverage for breeds entirely due to their genetic predispositions to costly health problems.

• Higher premiums for high-risk breeds—Even if your pet’s breed isn’t excluded, insurers may charge higher premiums for breeds with known health risks.

Before choosing an insurance policy, check if your pet’s breed is subject to exclusions or higher premiums, and compare policies to find one that offers the best protection for your specific breed.

Age is another key factor in determining whether your pet can be insured and at what cost. Insurers are typically more willing to cover younger pets since they are less likely to have developed chronic health conditions. On the other hand, older pets may face restrictions in terms of coverage and premiums.

Many insurers have upper age limits for enrollment, meaning if your pet is older than a certain age, they may not qualify for new coverage. However, if you enroll your pet at a younger age, most insurers will allow continued coverage as long as the policy remains active.

If you have an older pet, it’s wise to compare policies that offer coverage tailored to senior animals, as some insurers offer plans specifically designed for aging pets, albeit at higher premiums.

Contact Us for Pet Insurance

Contact Integrity Insurance Agency Inc in Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania, for a personalized pet insurance quote.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.