How Soon Does Pet Insurance Kick In?

Pet insurance can be a lifeline for pet owners facing unexpected veterinary bills, but understanding the fine print is crucial. That’s why so many pet parents often ask, “How soon does pet insurance kick in?”

Pet insurance waiting periods can definitely catch pet parents off guard. Ranging from a few days to several months, these waiting periods dictate when coverage kicks in for different types of conditions. Navigating pet insurance waiting periods can be confusing, so let’s break down what you need to know.

What is a Waiting Period for Pet Insurance?

A pet insurance waiting period is the amount of time you must wait after buying a policy before it covers any claims. This delay helps prevent people from buying insurance only after their pet gets sick or injured. For example, if your dog breaks its leg, you can’t purchase insurance afterward and expect it to pay for the surgery. The length of time you wait varies depending on the insurance company, the type of claim (like accident or illness), and where you live.

How Do Pet Insurance Waiting Periods Work?

Pet insurance policies typically include waiting periods before coverage kicks in for different types of claims. Accidents usually have shorter waiting periods, often just a few days, while illnesses generally require a two-week wait. Specific conditions like orthopedic problems or cruciate ligament injuries often have the longest waiting periods, sometimes up to six months or more. While waiting periods can vary slightly between insurers, most states have regulations in place to limit the differences.

What Happens if My Pet Becomes Sick or Injured During The Waiting Period?

If your pet develops a health condition during the waiting period, it’s usually considered a pre-existing condition, even if you didn’t know about it. This means the insurance won’t cover it. 

Again, insurance companies use waiting periods to prevent people from buying coverage only after their pet gets sick. Unfortunately, even if your pet becomes ill through no fault of your own, conditions that start during the waiting period typically aren’t covered.

And it’s for this very reason that providers recommend you enroll your fur baby as young as possible, BEFORE any pre-existing conditions can take hold.

Can I Get Pet Insurance Without a Waiting Period?

Generally speaking, no. All insurance providers will have some kind of waiting period to help them avoid fraudulent claims. Having said this, waiting periods for accident or illness claims can differ, and there are some plans that have shorter waiting periods.

As an example, Pets Best has a shorter waiting period of just 3 days for accidents and 14 days for illness. MetLife, another major provider in the space, makes customers wait less than 24 hours for accidents and their preventative (Wellness) care plans. Figo has a waiting period of less than 1 day for accidents and 14 days for illness.

We make it simple for you to do side-by-side comparisons of pet insurance providers so you can find the one who has the coverage you need.

Are There Longer Waiting Periods for Certain Conditions?

Yes, pet insurance providers typically extend waiting periods for specific health issues due to the high cost of treatment. For example, orthopedic conditions like hip dysplasia or ligament injuries will typically have longer waiting periods of between 14 days and 6 months, depending on the provider. 

Since certain breeds are predisposed to specific health issues, pet owners should carefully select a pet insurance plan that addresses their pet’s unique medical needs. This tailored approach ensures optimal coverage for potential health challenges.

If you have any questions about what kind of coverage your fur baby needs, ask your veterinarian for guidance. 

Don’t Wait For Disaster To Strike 

Protect your fur baby today with a pet insurance plan. Enrolling your pet early can save you from heart-wrenching decisions and financial burdens down the line. Avoid the risk of pre-existing conditions and give your pet the best possible care. Get a quote now and enjoy peace of mind.

The information contained on this blog is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary care. Always consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your pet's health care or treatment plan.

The authors of this blog are not veterinarians and do not claim to be experts in pet health. The information provided here is based on our own experiences and research, as well as information from reputable sources. However, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information.

We encourage you to do your own research and consult with your veterinarian before making any decisions about your pet's health.