Introduction
Cats are more than just pets — they’re part of the family. But when your feline friend gets sick or injured, vet bills can quickly add up. That’s where cat insurance comes in.
Many pet owners ask:
“What does standard cat insurance usually cover?”
In this article, we’ll explore what a standard cat insurance policy typically includes, what it doesn’t cover, and how to choose the best plan for your cat.
What Is Standard Cat Insurance?
Standard cat insurance is a policy that helps cover unexpected vet expenses. It typically includes accident and illness coverage, meaning you’re financially protected if your cat suddenly gets sick or injured.
This type of insurance is the most common and is designed to handle emergencies, serious health issues, and other medical needs that aren’t routine.
What Standard Cat Insurance Typically Covers
Let’s break down the main things a standard cat insurance policy usually includes:
✅ 1. Accidents and Injuries
If your cat is hurt in an accident — like getting hit by a car or falling from a height — insurance will typically cover:
- Emergency vet visits
- X-rays or imaging
- Surgery and hospitalization
- Wound treatment or fracture repair
Example: If your indoor cat swallows a toy or string and needs emergency surgery, your policy will likely cover most of the cost.
✅ 2. Illnesses
Most standard policies cover common and serious cat illnesses, including:
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Respiratory infections
- Cancer
- Diabetes
- Kidney disease
- Hyperthyroidism
Coverage starts after a waiting period, so it won’t cover existing or recent illnesses when you first sign up.
✅ 3. Diagnostic Testing
To identify health issues, your vet may run:
- Blood tests
- Ultrasounds
- MRIs or CT scans
- Biopsies
All of these are usually covered under a standard policy, as long as they relate to a covered illness or injury.
✅ 4. Prescription Medications
When your cat needs medicine for a covered condition, insurance often pays for:
- Pain relievers
- Antibiotics
- Insulin or thyroid medications
You may be reimbursed for medications purchased through your vet or pharmacy.
✅ 5. Surgery and Hospitalization
Whether it’s a planned operation or an emergency procedure, standard coverage usually includes:
- Surgery costs
- Anesthesia and monitoring
- Post-op care
- Overnight hospital stays
✅ 6. Specialist Treatment
If your cat requires care from a veterinary specialist — like an oncologist, cardiologist, or dermatologist — some standard policies cover this, especially if you’re referred by a vet.
Optional Add-Ons (Not in Standard Plans)
Standard plans do not include routine or preventive care. However, you can purchase a “Wellness Plan” or “Preventive Care Add-On” to cover services like:
- Vaccinations
- Flea and tick prevention
- Spaying/neutering
- Annual checkups
- Dental cleaning
These add-ons are helpful for keeping your cat healthy year-round.
What Cat Insurance Usually Doesn’t Cover
It’s equally important to understand what standard plans exclude:
❌ 1. Pre-Existing Conditions
If your cat has an illness or injury before you purchase the policy, treatment for that condition won’t be covered.
❌ 2. Routine Vet Visits
Annual exams, booster shots, nail trimming, and parasite control are not part of basic coverage unless you have a wellness add-on.
❌ 3. Elective or Cosmetic Procedures
Procedures like declawing, grooming, or ear cropping are not covered.
❌ 4. Pregnancy and Breeding
Most policies exclude anything related to pregnancy, birth, or breeding.
❌ 5. Behavioral Issues
Unless your plan includes behavioral therapy, training or treatment for anxiety and aggression will likely be excluded.
How Much Does Cat Insurance Cost?
The cost of standard cat insurance can vary based on:
- Your cat’s breed and age
- Your location
- The deductible and reimbursement rate
- Any additional wellness options
On average, cat insurance in the U.S. costs between $20 and $40 per month.
Cats that are older or prone to specific health problems may have higher premiums.
Is Standard Cat Insurance Worth It?
For many pet owners, the answer is yes. Vet bills can easily reach hundreds or even thousands of dollars in an emergency. A single surgery or overnight stay could cost more than a year’s worth of premiums.
With a good insurance plan, you’ll never have to choose between your cat’s health and your finances.
Conclusion
So, what does standard cat insurance usually cover?
To recap — it covers accidents, illnesses, diagnostics, medications, surgeries, and sometimes specialist care. It does not include wellness visits or pre-existing conditions unless you add optional coverage.
Cat insurance offers peace of mind and financial protection for unexpected events. If you haven’t already, now is a great time to explore your options and choose the right plan for your feline friend.