Pet Insurance For Exotic Animals

Exotic pets are a big responsibility that require lots of time and attention. They also need routine veterinary care and treatment for accidents and illnesses. Without insurance, these expenses can derail your financial goals or put you in debt.

Pet insurance for exotic animals is a way to offset these costs. But is it worth the expense?

Cost

Pets such as dogs and cats are commonly covered by pet insurance plans. These policies generally cover the cost of vet care for illnesses and accidents. They also help cover some of the costs associated with boarding, grooming and training. Some insurers even offer supplemental coverage for specialized medications or treatments.

In general, the cost of pet insurance for exotic pets is higher than that of a standard dog or cat policy. The difference is due to the fact that these animals often require more specialized care. Moreover, they tend to have more injuries and illnesses than other pets.

Exotic pets are also more likely to be lost or stolen than dogs and cats. The price of pet insurance for exotic pets will be influenced by the type of animal, location and plan type. It is also important to consider a deductible, reimbursement percentage and add-ons.

The best option for pet owners of exotic animals is to find a provider that offers a specific plan. This plan will include the most common accidents and illnesses, such as broken bones, swallowed objects or toxins, eye emergencies, bite wounds and respiratory issues. It will also cover specialized exams and tests, as well as medications and veterinary surgery. In addition, the policy will provide reimbursement for expenses related to the return of a lost or stolen exotic pet.

Coverage

As pet owners become more comfortable with a variety of exotic pets, the need for insurance policies to help with unexpected medical costs has increased. Just like with traditional cat and dog insurance, pet owners can expect to pay a monthly premium for coverage that will reimburse them for medical bills that are incurred by their exotic animal.

The most common pet insurance for exotic animals covers a wide range of vet care expenses including wellness visits, various types of testing, hospitalization, and surgery. It may also cover medication, supplements, and prescription food. These expenses can quickly add up, especially if you are dealing with an exotic pet such as a lizard, hedgehog, ferret, or chinchilla.

Exotic pet insurance can also cover the cost of specialized equipment, enclosures, and food. In addition, it can protect against the loss of your pet due to theft or escape, and any liability caused by your pet up to the policy’s limit.

A few things to keep in mind with exotic pet insurance is that deductibles and reimbursement rates vary from plan to plan. Additionally, some plans exclude venomous and poisonous species, animals that require permits or licenses to own, and species that are illegal to own. The good news is that other options, such as Pet Assure’s wellness programs and discounts, offer coverage for a much wider range of expenses.

Exclusions

Pet insurance for exotic animals typically doesn’t cover the same types of expenses as policies that cover cats and dogs. This is because most of these animals have a much shorter lifespan than their domestic counterparts, and they are known to suffer from more frequent and severe diseases and illnesses. As such, it’s important to choose the right plan for your specific animal species.

Some insurance companies offer exotic pet plans that work on a reimbursement model, meaning you’ll pay up-front for your animal’s care and then submit receipts to the company. The company will then reimburse you for a percentage of your costs, usually between 70% and 90%. However, there are some exclusions associated with this type of coverage. For example, grooming boarding and outsourced services aren’t covered.

Another type of coverage is known as preventive care, which covers vaccinations and routine health checks. This type of coverage isn’t included in most pet insurance policies, but it can be purchased as an add-on. This is important because it helps prevent serious illnesses and reduces the need for expensive treatments down the road.

Exotic pets can cost a lot to maintain, and the expense of care can drain your savings or put you in debt. With pet insurance for exotic animals, you can save money on vet bills and stay within your budget. This is especially beneficial if you have an exotic animal that’s known to require costly medical treatment.

Requirements

Many people who have exotic pets have invested a lot of money in their purchase, and pet insurance can help to cover the cost of any medical needs that may arise. These policies can also cover other expenses, such as grooming and wellness visits.

In addition to veterinary care, some exotic animals require special food and enclosures. These costs can add up quickly, and can put a strain on a budget. Additionally, exotic pets can be prone to illness and injury that require immediate treatment. For example, a bird that swallows an object could need to be operated on immediately. Often, these procedures can cost hundreds or thousands of dollars.

Exotic animal insurance is available from several companies, including Nationwide and Pet Assure. Prices vary, but they usually start at less than $21 per month. Most policies cover routine wellness visits and vaccinations. They also cover the costs of exams, imaging, lab tests and prescription medications. Some even include a hospitalization benefit and dental coverage. In some cases, insurers will reimburse for the cost of a cage or other equipment.