How Much is Pet Insurance in 2025? A Complete Guide for USA Pet Owners

Pet insurance has grown more popular than ever among pet owners in the USA. Many people wonder, “How much is pet insurance in 2025?” as monthly costs and coverage options continue changing. The right plan can give peace of mind for your pet’s health and your wallet.
We created this complete guide to help you see what you can expect to pay and what influences your price this year. You will learn how breed, age, company, and even where you live affect your insurance rates. Find real examples, expert advice, and ways to save—so you can choose the best plan with total confidence.
What is the average price of pet insurance right now in the USA
Pet insurance prices have changed in 2025
Pet health insurance costs have shifted in 2025. Many top providers, like Healthy Paws and Lemonade, raised their average pet insurance cost in the USA. We can look at the new numbers from the North American Pet Health Insurance Association. They report that, right now, dog owners pay $50–$75 per month for a balanced plan.
Cat owners pay less, ranging from $22–$44 each month for coverage. Premiums reflect steady vet cost increases and greater demand for flexible coverage. Some pet health insurance companies also adjust rates by ZIP code and pet risk factors.
What you can expect to pay each month for your pet
Most USA pet owners will see slightly higher quotes compared to last year. With the average pet insurance cost in the USA up by 8% in 2025, new plans often quote $65/month for popular dog breeds with decent coverage. Cat owners see $30/month on average for full reimbursement plans. If our pets are young and healthy, we often receive better value.
Plan types matter a lot too. Accident-only plans save money, with some as low as $17/month, while wellness add-ons push rates higher. Always compare prices and consider both annual deductibles and reimbursement percentages.

What makes pet insurance more expensive for some pets
Breed and age have the biggest impact
The breed and age of our pets impact what we must pay. Dog insurance cost by breed varies a lot thanks to health risks in some breeds, like French Bulldogs or German Shepherds. Older pets always cost more, since the risk of illness or injury is higher for them. Most pet insurance carriers raise rates as our pets hit age five or seven. Purebreds usually need more expensive insurance than mixed breeds. Cat health history matters less than dog breed, but older cats cost more too.
Where you live changes prices more than you think
Your address impacts your quote as much as your pet’s breed. If we live in urban spots such as Los Angeles or New York, insurance companies charge more. These cities have higher vet bills and accident risk. For pet owners in rural places, monthly costs stay low. Insurance companies look at claims data by ZIP. The state’s insurance regulations change rates as well. Policy prices in Texas can differ a lot from those in California.
Plan types and coverage amount really matter
What we choose for coverage has a direct effect on premium cost. Pet insurance coverage options fit every budget—from accident-only to full illness and wellness plans. More coverage means larger monthly payments. If our plan pays a higher reimbursement or lower deductible, we pay more. Monthly premiums drop if we choose accident-only or high deductible plans. Internal comparison of pet health insurance companies shows wide gaps in prices between basic and premium plans.
Discounts and pre-existing health issues change your quote
Some companies offer group or multipet discounts that lower our costs. Others let us bundle home or renter’s with pet insurance for savings. If our pet has pre-existing health needs, premiums go up and some conditions will not be covered. Being clear on exclusions and asking for every available discount helps us save. Checking network clinics in your area is good for real value. Companies reward those who keep their pets up-to-date with vet visits and vaccinations.

What is the real cost difference for dogs and cats insurance
Average dog insurance costs are often higher than for cats
Dogs cost more to insure than cats in the USA. Our experience with clients confirms this trend. Industry reports for 2025 show the typical dog policy costs $58 per month, while cats average $30 per month. Dogs visit the vet more often and suffer bigger injuries, so claims totals end up higher. Some companies offer cat insurance price comparison tools, which let you quote plans for various breeds or mixes.
Popular breeds like French Bulldogs cost even more
Certain breeds are very expensive to cover. For example, French Bulldogs often have hereditary health issues, leading to claims nearly twice as high as average. Monthly premiums for this breed can hit $120, while Labradors or mixed breeds remain closer to the $60 mark. The dog insurance cost by breed is one of the main things you must check before buying any plan. Those with purebred dogs will want to compare options and read company reviews for disease exclusions and pricing methods.
Old pets or those with health needs usually pay much more
Older pets need extra care and file more claims, leading to premium increases. If your dog or cat is past age 10, your monthly payment could double compared to a young animal. Pre-existing health conditions, such as ongoing allergies or early arthritis, mean your quote rises sharply. Companies like Embrace or Nationwide offer plans for senior pets, but the cost jumps noticeably. It pays to get insurance while pets are young and healthy.

What do top pet insurance companies charge this year
The top providers and their sample rates side by side (table rich snippet)
Company | Dog Avg. Monthly | Cat Avg. Monthly | Main Plan Features |
---|---|---|---|
Healthy Paws | $71 | $35 | Unlimited annual payout, most breeds accepted |
Lemonade | $64 | $28 | Digital claims, low premiums for young pets |
Pumpkin | $69 | $31 | Wellness add-ons, comprehensive accident & illness |
Embrace | $60 | $27 | Senior pet plans, flexible deductibles |
How to compare plans for your pet’s needs
Every pet has unique needs. Some need full coverage for hereditary diseases, others only want accident coverage. We suggest focusing first on reimbursement percentage, annual payout limits, and deductible size. You want to pick a company that fits your pet’s breed and health risks. Many pet insurance coverage options differ from one company to another, so it helps to use comparison tools backed by customer reviews. Ask about exclusions and see sample policy documents.
Customer service and plan flexibility set some apart
Choosing the right pet health insurance company goes beyond price. Fast claims processing, helpful phone support, and simple mobile apps build trust. We like providers with 24/7 hotlines and flexible plan options. Companies such as Healthy Paws are famous for smooth claims and good customer reviews. Check provider flexibility if you ever move states or want to add pets in the future.

What do you get for your money with pet insurance
Common illnesses, accidents, and routine care explained
Pet insurance helps pay vet bills for surprise injuries, accidents, or sudden sickness. Most plans cover emergencies like swallowing a toy, broken bones, or vomiting. You also get coverage for common illnesses such as ear infections, UTIs, and some cancers. Reviews of popular provider plans show that routine checkups or vaccinations are add-ons in most cases. Knowing what’s standard (such as accident and illness) versus “extras” keeps our expectations realistic.
Add-ons like dental and wellness coverage may cost extra
Some families want broader coverage, like dental cleanings or heartworm checks. These add-ons push up the monthly premium. For example, Pumpkin offers a full wellness upgrade for $17/month extra for dogs. Not every plan will pay for teeth cleaning or annual shots, so owners must read the fine print. Ask the insurance company about exclusions, especially with dental, breeding, or behavior-related therapy. The best way to control cost is to buy what you need, not the most expensive option.
What tips will help you save the most money on pet insurance
Raising your deductible can lower your monthly price
Raising our deductible can lower the monthly price by up to 30%. If we are willing to pay more for a rare claim, a higher deductible plan helps save each month. Our research shows that setting a $500–$1,000 deductible (instead of $250) can turn a $72/month plan into $52/month for healthy pets. Only choose a deductible we feel confident paying at the vet.
Bundling, shopping around, and using discounts saves money
Many providers offer big multipet or bundle savings. You can link pet insurance with renters or auto coverage for extra discounts. Shopping around for multiple quotes is key. A side-by-side cat insurance price comparison could save you $100 or more each year. Even the cheapest pet insurance USA options may still offer the benefits you need. Look for specials or referral discounts by contacting companies directly. We recommend checking out the available cheap plans for new pet owners for fresh savings tips.
Keeping your pet healthy is the best way to save overall
Healthy pets stay out of the vet office. Insurers lower your monthly costs if pets are up-to-date on vaccines and checkups. We see our own readers save $10/month on average by keeping pets healthy. Some companies check medical records before they quote a price. Consistent care helps us avoid issues like dental surgery or kidney disease, which lead to higher premiums.
What common questions do pet owners have about insurance (FAQ)
How do I pick the right coverage type for my pet?
Picking the right plan means knowing what our pet needs. Young, healthy animals need less coverage, but large breed dogs or seniors may want more. Companies offer different pet insurance coverage options, so always compare sample quotes and check what’s excluded.
Does pet insurance pay the full vet bill?
No, most plans only cover 70–90% of costs after your deductible. We pay the rest. Only rare plans cover 100%. Always check your reimbursement rate before buying a plan.
Can I use my insurance at any animal hospital?
Usually yes. Most pet insurance plans let you use any licensed vet clinic in the country. Some wellness add-ons connect you with specific US hospital networks.
Does my pet’s age make a big difference in the price?
Yes! Older pets always cost more because the risk of illness rises. Most companies increase rates yearly as our pet ages.
Are things like shots and dental care covered?
Shots and dental cleanings usually need a wellness add-on. Basic plans don’t pay for routine care unless we pay extra. Ask the company to list all included services.
What if my pet has a health problem before I get insurance?
Pre-existing conditions are not covered. Insurers will not pay for illnesses or injuries that happened before your policy start date. We must disclose our pet’s full history up front.
Is it worth it to have pet insurance for healthy pets?
Yes. Even healthy pets can have accidents, and emergencies are costly. Insurance spreads the risk and lowers our out-of-pocket bills.
Which provider offers the cheapest pet insurance in 2025?
Costs change by region, pet, and coverage. We found Lemonade often quotes the lowest rates for younger pets. For more information on money-saving options, visit our results comparing cheap pet health insurance to see what others chose.
What should you remember before buying pet insurance in 2025
Our strongest advice is to compare plans and get personalized quotes from several companies. Read the sample policies, not just the summaries. Consider our pet’s age, breed, health, and any current illnesses before picking coverage. Don’t skip thinking about your carer needs—pet insurance can take away so much worry about vet bills if you pick the right plan.
You now have everything you need to answer “How much is pet insurance?” in 2025—and choose a plan that fits your pet and your wallet.
Related: What Is an Insurance Premium and Why Does It Matter to You?