Introduction
If your pet has been sick before, you’re likely wondering: does pet insurance cover pre-existing conditions? The answer is important—especially if you’re looking to get coverage for ongoing health concerns. In this guide, we explain what’s considered pre-existing, which providers offer partial coverage, and how to choose the best policy.
Understanding Pre-Existing Conditions in Pet Insurance
A pre-existing condition is any illness or injury your pet had before your pet insurance policy began. This includes:
- Chronic conditions like diabetes or arthritis
- Previous injuries such as a broken leg
- Illnesses like infections or cancer
- Any documented symptoms, even without a formal diagnosis
Pet Insurance Coverage for Pre-Existing Conditions
In most cases, pet insurance does not cover pre-existing conditions. However, there are some exceptions:
- Curable Conditions: If your pet had a temporary illness (e.g., a minor respiratory infection) and remained symptom-free for a specified period, some insurers will cover it again.
- No Prior Symptoms: If your pet was never diagnosed or treated for a condition, insurers might not consider it pre-existing.
- Waiting Period Clauses: Some policies reassess exclusions after a 6–12 month waiting period.
Providers with the Most Lenient Policies
Some pet insurers have more forgiving policies regarding pre-existing conditions:
| Provider | Notable Policy Feature |
|---|---|
| Embrace | Covers some curable pre-existing conditions after 12 months |
| ASPCA | Covers conditions that have been symptom-free for 180 days |
| Figo | Considers coverage after extended symptom-free periods |
Want a broader comparison? Check out NerdWallet’s Pet Insurance Breakdown.
How to Check If Your Pet Has a Pre-Existing Condition
Most insurers require a veterinary exam before or shortly after enrollment. This helps them determine:
- Existing symptoms or diagnoses
- Past treatments
- Health history from previous vets
Tip: Always review your pet’s medical records before applying. You can also ask the insurer to perform a medical record review for transparency.
Can You Still Get Pet Insurance with Pre-Existing Conditions?
Yes! Even if your pet has pre-existing conditions:
- Accidents and New Illnesses will still be covered.
- Routine and Wellness Care can be added for annual exams, vaccines, etc.
- Prescription Food and Supplements may still qualify if unrelated.
For more on getting started, read our guide: Is Pet Insurance Worth It?
Final Thoughts
So, does pet insurance cover pre-existing conditions? Generally no—but some exceptions exist. Understanding the fine print can help you make a smarter decision and ensure you’re still able to give your pet the care they need.