Coverage Questions
No — this is the most important exclusion in all pet insurance policies. Any condition your pet had before the policy start date (including symptoms, diagnoses, or related conditions) is excluded permanently with most insurers. Some insurers (Embrace, Healthy Paws) will cover curable pre-existing conditions after a symptom-free waiting period — but chronic or hereditary conditions are permanently excluded.
Dental accidents (broken teeth from trauma) are covered by most accident and illness plans. Dental illness (periodontal disease, tooth decay) is excluded by most plans but covered by Embrace. Routine dental cleanings are only covered under wellness add-ons. Dental coverage is one of the most significant gaps between providers — check the policy carefully if dental care is a priority.
Yes — if the condition develops after your policy starts. This is one of the most valuable aspects of pet insurance for purebred owners. Hip dysplasia in a German Shepherd or heart disease in a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel — if diagnosed after your policy effective date, these hereditary conditions are covered under accident and illness plans from most major insurers.
Yes — cancer treatment is covered under accident and illness plans from most major pet insurers, including diagnostics, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. Cancer is one of the leading causes of death in dogs and can cost $5,000–$20,000 to treat. This is one of the most compelling reasons to have pet insurance — cancer treatment without insurance often leads owners to make end-of-life decisions based on cost rather than prognosis.
Claims Questions
Pay your vet, get an itemized receipt, then submit through your insurer's app or website (most have mobile apps). Upload the invoice and your vet's medical notes. Most straightforward claims are processed within 5–10 business days. Lemonade processes many claims in minutes. Keep records of all vet visits — some insurers request your pet's full medical history when reviewing claims.
Most pet insurance companies do not raise premiums specifically because you filed a claim — unlike car insurance. Premiums increase annually due to age and vet cost inflation, but not claim history. Trupanion is the clearest on this policy. Verify your insurer's claim impact policy in the policy terms before purchasing.