Does Pet Insurance Cover Surgery? Here's What Pet Owners Need to Know
As pet owners, we’d do just about anything to keep our furry friends happy and healthy. But when your dog swallows a sock or your cat takes a tumble off the counter, those unexpected vet visits can lead to eye-popping bills—especially if surgery is involved. That’s where pet insurance comes into play.
If you’re new to pet insurance or have been considering it for a while, you might be wondering: Does it actually cover surgery? And if so, what types of procedures are included? Whether you're a first-time pet parent or a seasoned pro, understanding how pet insurance works can feel a little overwhelming. Don’t worry—we’re here to break it down for you!
Key Takeaways
- Pet insurance typically covers surgeries related to accidents or illnesses, such as broken bones, tumor removals, or emergency procedures.
- Surgeries for pre-existing conditions, cosmetic reasons, or routine care like spaying/neutering are generally not covered unless you have a specific add-on.
- Reimbursement rates and deductibles vary by plan—understanding your policy is key to maximizing coverage.
- Most insurance plans require upfront payment, followed by claims for reimbursement, though some offer direct pay options in emergencies.
- Use Pawlicy Advisor to compare pet insurance plans and find one that helps you save on surgery costs while meeting your pet’s unique needs.
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In this article, we’ll discuss whether pet insurance covers surgery, the factors that affect coverage, and tips for choosing the right plan to protect your beloved companion. Let’s dive in and demystify this important aspect of caring for your pet.
What types of surgery are covered (and ot covered) by pet insurance?
If your four-legged friend needs surgery, pet insurance can be a lifesaver—literally and financially. However, not all surgeries are covered, and you should know what to expect before your pet experiences an emergency. Here’s a closer look at what’s typically covered by pet insurance, and situations that might leave you footing the bill.
Surgeries that are typically covered by pet insurance
Pet insurance is designed to help with unexpected health issues, so most plans cover surgeries that result from accidents or illnesses. These can include:
- Injury-related surgeries: For example, if your dog breaks a leg or your cat suffers a deep cut, insurance will often cover the surgical costs.
- Illness-related surgeries: Conditions such as tumor removal, bladder stone extraction, or gastrointestinal blockage (like when your dog eats a tennis ball), are typically included.
- Emergency surgeries: Issues requiring immediate intervention, such as bloat (a life-threatening condition in dogs), a ruptured spleen, or a severe infection, are usually covered by pet insurance.
As long as the surgery isn’t related to a pre-existing condition (an issue that was diagnosed before the policy started), the procedure will likely be covered.
Surgeries that are not typically covered by pet insurance
While pet insurance is great for the unexpected, it doesn’t usually cover certain types of surgeries, including:
- Birth-related complications: If your pregnant dog or cat needs a C-section or other intervention, most policies won’t cover the procedure unless you’ve purchased a special add-on for breeding pets.
- Elective procedures: Surgeries such as declawing, ear cropping, or tail docking are considered elective and typically aren’t covered.
- Cosmetic surgeries: These are non-essential surgeries like fixing a snaggle tooth or removing a harmless skin tag to improve your pet’s appearance.
- Routine surgeries: Spay and neuter procedures are generally not included under standard insurance plans, but some providers offer wellness add-ons to help offset the cost of these surgeries.
Check the fine print
Every pet insurance provider has different rules, so it’s essential to read your policy carefully. Some plans cover certain procedures related to specific conditions, while others exclude them entirely. Knowing what’s included will save you stress—and surprise bills—down the road.
By understanding what’s covered and what’s not, you can make more informed decisions about your pet’s care and find a plan that fits your budget and your furry friend’s needs.
How pet insurance can save you money on surgery
Surgery for your pet can be expensive—sometimes costing thousands of dollars—but pet insurance can help ease the financial burden. Let’s break down how pet insurance can save you money and what you need to know to make the most of it.
How to use pet insurance for your pet’s surgery
Most pet insurance providers use a reimbursement model. This means you’ll pay the vet bill upfront, and then submit a claim to your insurance company for reimbursement. Once your claim is approved, the insurer refunds a percentage of the cost, based on your policy. Some companies even offer direct vet pay for emergencies, but this option is less common and may require pre-approval.
Deductibles and reimbursement rates
To unlock your insurance benefits, you’ll first need to meet your deductible—the amount you pay out of pocket before your coverage kicks in. Deductibles can be annual or per-incident, depending on your plan.
Once your deductible is met, your insurance provider will reimburse you based on your policy’s reimbursement rate, which is usually set at the time of enrollment. Some pet insurance companies have no deductible, while others range from $250 to $500 or more
Pre-existing conditions are not covered
It’s important to know that no pet insurance covers surgeries for pre-existing conditions—health issues that were diagnosed or present before you enrolled in the plan. For example, if your vet suggests surgery for your cat’s knee issue today and you purchase a pet insurance policy tomorrow, that surgery won’t be covered. However, conditions that arise after your policy starts are typically eligible, as long as they’re not excluded in your plan’s terms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does pet insurance cover CCL surgery?
Yes, many comprehensive plans cover cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) repair, provided the injury occurs after your policy’s start date. Check for any waiting periods related to orthopedic conditions, because some providers have extended waiting periods of six months or more before coverage begins for certain orthopedic conditions.
Does pet insurance cover cataract surgery?
Cataract surgery is usually covered if it’s necessary due to a new illness or injury and not a pre-existing condition.
Does pet insurance cover TPLO surgery?
Tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) surgery for CCL injuries is often covered, but policies vary. Ensure you’ve reviewed your plan’s terms, and check your policy’s waiting periods.
Does pet insurance cover BOAS surgery?
Surgery for brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) may be covered if the procedure is deemed medically necessary and not considered a pre-existing condition.
Pet insurance can save you money on surgery
Even with deductibles and partial reimbursement, pet insurance can significantly reduce the financial burden of unexpected surgeries. Instead of scrambling to pay thousands of dollars out of pocket, you’ll be responsible for only a fraction of the cost. This safety net allows you to focus on what matters most: getting your pet the care they need without the stress of financial strain.
Whether you’re dealing with a sudden injury or an illness requiring surgery, pet insurance can provide peace of mind and financial relief when you need it most. Enroll early, choose a plan with a deductible and reimbursement rate that work for your budget, and understand your policy’s exclusions to avoid surprises.
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Licensed Insurance Producer - Pawlicy Advisor
Kari Steere is a licensed P&C insurance agent in all 50 states and has focused entirely on pet insurance since 2019. As an animal lover with a rescued Terrier named Barry, when she's not helping pet owners find the perfect plan on Pawlicy Advisor, she runs a ranch in Oregon and rehabilitates any animals that come across her path.
