When your pets enter their golden years, they generally require more medical attention than they did when they were younger. In an ideal world, a senior pet would be afforded the same pet insurance coverage options as a younger pet, but that’s not the case with most pet insurance companies.
Most companies offer coverage for senior pets in some form or another. However, senior pet insurance policies often have added exclusions and restrictions. If your pet isn’t already enrolled in an insurance policy, you’ll have to start from scratch and compare what different insurers offer.
How insurance companies define senior animals
Pet insurance for senior pets works much the same as coverage for younger animals as it still offsets the financial costs of unexpected veterinary expenses and preventive or routine vet care. However, coverage for older dogs and cats is often more limited and generally comes with a heftier price tag.
But at which age are pets considered seniors? The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) considers cats over the age of 10 to be seniors, but determining dog life stages is a little more complex (primarily because of their size differences).
Generally, dogs are considered seniors when they reach the last 25 percent of their breed’s expected lifespan. Due to their shorter lifespans, giant dog breeds may be classified as senior as young as six years. On the other hand, small or toy breeds may only reach this point at age 11. Individual insurers reserve the right to set enrollment age limitations and restrictions as they see fit.
Exclusions or restrictions for older pets
Senior pet insurance typically has more limitations compared to that for younger pets:
- Age limits: While many of the best pet insurance companies offer some form of coverage for senior pets, they may have a maximum age for new enrollments.
- Comprehensive vs. limited coverage: Some pet insurance providers limit older pets to accident-only policies and wellness plans, which cover treatments for accidental injuries but not illnesses or congenital or hereditary conditions.
- Increased exclusions and limitations: Policies for older pets often have more exclusions, especially concerning pre-existing conditions. Unless deemed “curable, most pet insurers don’t cover health issues that existed before the policy’s coverage began. This is often problematic when you want to enroll an older cat or canine.
- Higher risk of health issues: Older animals are more likely to develop chronic conditions and other health issues. This increased risk dictates which type of pet insurance you can get and factors into how your premiums are calculated.
- Medical history: Even cheap pet insurance companies often require a detailed medical history for older pets to determine whether they’re eligible for coverage and what that coverage will look like.
- Premiums: The cost of pet insurance for older pets is typically higher than what you’d pay for younger animals. This reflects the increased likelihood your four-legged friend will need medical care as they age.
The importance of insurance for aging pets
Despite the potential for higher premiums and exclusions, pet insurance for older animals can still offer significant value. Various insurance policies and add-ons or riders can soften the financial blow of unexpected vet bills for accidental injuries and routine vet care.
Financial protection against unexpected costs
If you do get comprehensive coverage for Fido or Mittens, pet insurance can help cover the costs of treating conditions such as chronic diseases, arthritis and dental problems.
Coverage for chronic illnesses
Some pet insurance policies cover chronic conditions, which can be particularly beneficial for older pets who may develop long-term illnesses like diabetes, kidney disease or cancer. Managing these conditions can be expensive, and insurance can help offset ongoing treatment costs.
Emergency care
Accidents and emergencies can happen at any age. Pet insurance can cover unexpected incidents, such as falls or ingesting harmful objects, which pose risks to pets regardless of their age.
Specialized medical treatments
Senior pets may need specialized treatments such as physical therapy, surgery or advanced diagnostics like MRIs and CT scans. Pet insurance can help make these treatments more financially feasible by covering a portion of the costs.
Peace of mind
Knowing that pet insurance can help cover potential medical expenses allows pet owners to decide based on their pets’ best interests rather than financial constraints. This peace of mind is invaluable, especially for those with older pets that may require frequent veterinary visits.
End-of-life care
Some pet insurance policies cover end-of-life care, including euthanasia and cremation, and offer emotional and financial support during such a trying time. It’s difficult to think about, but when the time comes, you won’t regret making provisions for the inevitable.
Regular vet check-ups
Older pets are more susceptible to chronic diseases such as hypothyroidism, cancer and diabetes, making routine vet check-ups essential. If your pet has an issue, early detection can make all the difference in coming up with a treatment plan. It’s equally important for cases where the condition can’t be treated but can be managed to keep your furry friend comfortable. Most pet insurance companies offer coverage for vet check-ups as part of their comprehensive plans or in the form of an add-on or rider.
Companies that offer insurance for older pets
When shopping around for senior pet insurance, look at insurance providers that offer comprehensive coverage without stringent age limits or excessive exclusions. Here are a few options to get you started.
ASPCA Pet Health Insurance
ASPCA Pet Health Insurance offers its Complete CoverageSM plan to dogs and cats from the age of eight weeks and has no upper age limit. This customizable plan covers everything from accidents and illnesses to complementary treatments (formerly known as “alternative therapies“). The insurer also offers accident-only coverage for injuries and optional Preventive Care coverage to help manage routine care costs.
Embrace Pet Insurance
Embrace offers comprehensive plans for dogs and cats ages 14 and under. The plans cover chronic conditions, mobility issues, dental trauma, surgery, complementary treatments and more. They may also cover curable pre-existing conditions if symptom-free for 12 months. Pets 15 and older can enroll in Embrace’s accident-only plan.
MetLife Pet Insurance
MetLife Pet Insurance has no age limit for enrolling new pets, making it a solid option for senior dogs and cats. Its policies cover accidents, illnesses, chronic conditions and hereditary issues. Pet parents can also customize their plans to suit different needs (though premiums generally increase with age). Wellness coverage for routine care is available as an add-on to help manage ongoing vet visits.
Pets Best Pet Insurance
Pets Best offers customizable coverage options for senior pets, ensuring they receive the care they need. Policies cover accidents, illnesses and more, and there is no upper age limit. Pets Best also provides a 24/7 Pet Helpline for expert veterinary advice, making it easier for senior pet owners to access information on how to manage and monitor their pets.
Spot Pet Insurance
Spot provides comprehensive coverage for senior pets, with no upper age limits for enrollment. Policies cover accidents, illnesses, hereditary conditions, behavioral issues and more. Spot also offers optional wellness coverage, which includes routine care like dental cleanings and vaccinations, helping pet owners stay on top of preventive care for their older companions.
Tips for reducing pet insurance costs for senior pets
Pet insurance premiums for older pets are typically more expensive than those for their younger counterparts. Consider these tips to help save some money.
- Adjust coverage levels: Consider adjusting the coverage levels, such as increasing the deductible or lowering the reimbursement percentage to reduce premium costs.
- Compare insurance quotes: Comparing quotes from multiple insurers can help you find the best coverage at the most affordable price. Each provider has different pricing structures and underwriting guidelines, so shopping around is essential.
- Explore accident-only policies: An accident-only policy can be a more affordable option. These plans provide coverage for unexpected injuries while excluding illnesses and routine care.
- Look for discounts: Many insurers offer discounts for various reasons, such as enrolling multiple pets, paying annually or having membership in certain organizations. Always inquire about available pet discounts and incentives.
Alternative ways to cover veterinary expenses for older pets
Senior pet insurance isn’t the only option for covering the costs of caring for your aging furry friend. Consider the following options if you don’t have coverage and need to manage veterinary costs for your older pet:
- CareCredit: A healthcare credit card accepted by many veterinarians for financing treatments, including surgeries and emergencies. Review the terms and interest rates carefully.
- Charitable organizations and nonprofits: Groups and organizations like RedRover and the Humane Society may offer financial assistance or grants for unexpected veterinary expenses to pet owners in need.
- Low-cost veterinary clinics: Many communities have clinics that provide reduced-rate services, including vaccinations, spaying/neutering and dental care.
- Payment plans: Some veterinary clinics offer payment plans, allowing you to spread costs over time. Check with your vet about availability.
- Personal loans or credit cards: As a last resort, consider using these options for large expenses, but be cautious of interest rates and repayment terms.
- Pet prescription discount programs: Certain pet pharmacies offer discounts on pet medications, which can help with the cost of prescriptions for chronic conditions.
- Pet savings account: Create a dedicated pet savings account for pet-related expenses to budget for routine care and emergencies.
- Veterinary school clinics: Teaching hospitals at veterinary schools often provide services at reduced rates, under the supervision of experienced veterinarians.
The bottom line
Senior pet insurance coverage can soften the financial blow of both unexpected and anticipated veterinary expenses. While premiums are generally higher and there are often exclusions, the reassurance of having coverage often makes it a worthwhile investment.
Whether you’re after comprehensive coverage or something simpler like an accident-only plan, you can rest assured that your pet can access a range of treatments, giving much-needed peace of mind while the sun is setting on your time together.
Frequently asked questions
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Pet insurance premiums typically increase as pets age due to the higher risk of health issues. Review your policy terms to understand how pet insurance works and how premiums may change over time.
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Some insurers require medical records to assess the pet’s health history and determine coverage eligibility. These records help identify pre-existing conditions that may not be covered.
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Some pet insurance policies include coverage for end-of-life expenses, such as euthanasia and cremation. Coverage details vary by provider, so review the policy carefully.
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