Getting Pet Insurance After a Diagnosis: Is It Possible?

When it comes to our beloved pets, we want to ensure they receive the best care possible. Pet insurance can be a lifesaver when unexpected illnesses or accidents occur, helping to cover the costs of veterinary bills. But what happens if your pet has already been diagnosed with a condition? Can you still get pet insurance? This article will delve into the possibilities and limitations of getting pet insurance after a diagnosis.

Understanding Pet Insurance

Pet insurance is a policy taken out by a pet owner to cover, wholly or partially, the unforeseen veterinary costs of their pet’s illness or injury. Most pet insurance policies are paid on a monthly basis and vary in coverage. Some cover routine check-ups and vaccinations, while others only cover accidents and illnesses.

Can You Get Pet Insurance After a Diagnosis?

The short answer is yes, you can still get pet insurance after your pet has been diagnosed with a condition. However, it’s important to note that most pet insurance companies consider pre-existing conditions as exclusions to coverage. This means that the diagnosed condition will not be covered by the insurance policy. Each insurance company has its own definition of a pre-existing condition, but generally, if your pet was diagnosed or showed symptoms before the policy start date, it’s considered pre-existing.

What About Coverage for Other Conditions?

While the pre-existing condition may not be covered, pet insurance can still be beneficial for covering other potential health issues that may arise. For example, if your pet was diagnosed with diabetes, the insurance won’t cover diabetes-related treatments, but it can cover illnesses or accidents unrelated to the diabetes.

Are There Any Exceptions?

Some pet insurance companies offer coverage for certain pre-existing conditions if the pet has been cured or has not shown symptoms for a certain period, typically 12 months. This is often referred to as a “curable pre-existing condition”. Conditions like urinary tract infections, vomiting, diarrhea, and some skin conditions may fall into this category.

What Should You Consider When Getting Pet Insurance After a Diagnosis?

• Understand the policy: Make sure you fully understand what is and isn’t covered by the insurance policy.

• Shop around: Different insurance companies have different policies regarding pre-existing conditions. It’s worth shopping around to find the best fit for you and your pet.

• Consider the costs: Consider the cost of the premium against the potential veterinary costs. If your pet has a chronic condition that requires ongoing treatment, it might be more cost-effective to pay for the treatment out of pocket.

In conclusion, while getting pet insurance after a diagnosis can be more challenging, it’s not impossible. It’s important to do your research and find a policy that best suits your pet’s needs and your financial situation.