Before choosing pet insurance it is worth remembering that the cover can vary enormously between providers. Most, if not all pet insurance companies exclude a pet’s pre-existing medical condition from the cover. Therefore if a dog develops hip dysphasia before pet insurance is taken out it is likely that any vets fees associated with this medical condition will not be met. Any pets pre-existing medical conditions that have been declared are excluded from the cover and is normally stated on the policy schedule or insurance certificate.

In some cases pet insurance offered by some providers excludes congenital and hereditary medical conditions which may develop later on. It is known for example that in some dog breeds there is an increased risk of certain medical conditions developing in later life. Therefore, although your pet shows no signs of any symptoms when the cover is taken out, any claims in the future arising from such conditions are likely to be declined. Always consider asking the pet insurer during the quotation stage whether any congenital and hereditary illnesses are covered later on by the policy.

It also worth noting that some pet policies pay vet fees claims for the first 12 months for an ongoing medical condition. In contrast other pet insurers offer lifetime cover for an additional premium. This means claims will be met regardless of the length of treatment required and is relevant for medical conditions such as diabetes or arthritis which are ongoing for the rest of the pet’s life span.