Pet Insurance What To Look Out For

As is the case with most types of cover, looking for the best pet insurance can be a daunting task.

There are many things to bear in mind when researching cat or dog insurance policies - meaning that knowing exactly what you need from your pet insurance before you pick a plan is a good idea.

Some of the main factors to look into when buying pet insurance include what it does and does not cover and whether it comes with any financial caps or other limits.

Inclusions and exclusions

As a rule of thumb, pet insurance policies cover things that can be deemed to be non-routine.

So while vaccinations, worming and neutering are not usually covered as they are seen as normal things to do when keeping a pet, unexpected illness and injuries are included.

More specifically, a standard pet insurance plan could cover vet fees, boarding costs, cancelled holidays, legal advice and - in some cases - legal fees and liability should your pet harm another person or property.

You may also be able to find pet insurance policies that cover the cost of advertising and a reward if your animal goes missing.

Cost and cover

How much you pay for pet insurance will help to determine how much cover you actually get.

The most attractive option - ultra-cheap pet insurance - is not necessarily the best to go for, as it only offers basic cover and tends to come with a slew of limits and restrictions for making a claim, says consumer group Which?.

Further up the scale, mid-level policies cost a little more and come with financial rather than time-related limits.

Premium policies are a sound choice for those who want as much cover as possible and are not too bothered about high premiums.

This type of pet insurance offers protection under a specified yearly financial limit, but will keep paying out every year - if the policy is renewed - for recurring or ongoing illnesses, making it ideal for those concerned about the cost of looking after a pet who is ill for a long time.