Pet Insurance Calculator

Premiums are driven by 5 factors: (1) species — dogs cost ~30% more than cats on average, (2) breed — large breeds and brachycephalic breeds cost more due to higher claim risk, (3) age — premiums roughly double between age 2 and age 8, (4) region — veterinary costs vary 2-3x between low-cost and high-cost metros, and (5) coverage choices — higher reimbursement, lower deductible, and unlimited annual cap all raise the premium.

Indoor cats have ~70% lower claim rates than outdoor cats, so the math often favors accident-only ($15-25/mo) over comprehensive ($30-50/mo). A single $2,000-$4,000 emergency (urinary blockage, foreign body ingestion) wipes out 5+ years of accident-only premiums.

After you pay the deductible, the insurer reimburses you the chosen percentage of eligible veterinary costs — 70%, 80%, or 90% are typical. So on a $4,000 surgery with a $500 deductible at 80% reimbursement: you pay $500 + 20% × $3,500 = $1,200.

An annual limit caps how much the insurer will pay per year ($5K, $10K, $15K, or unlimited). A lifetime limit caps total payouts over the pet's life and is now uncommon. Unlimited annual is best for breeds prone to chronic conditions (cancer, hip dysplasia, IVDD) where one year of treatment can exceed $15K.

No standard policy covers pre-existing conditions — anything diagnosed before the policy start date or during the waiting period (typically 14-30 days for illness, 48 hours for accidents) is excluded. This is why insurers prefer to enroll pets young.