Pet Insurance Exclusions

Getting the Right Pet Insurance Policy
Taking the time to understand your particular pet insurance policy is key in getting the right policy for your pet. Companies are different in what they cover and exclude so make sure you get as much information as you can so you can get the most coverage available for your particular pet.
Pet Insurance Policies are Different: Know the Exclusions in Your Pet Insurance Policy
Below is a list of common pet insurance exclusions. Exclusions in pet insurance vary from one company to the next, so again make sure you understand your particular policy.
Common Pet Insurance Exclusions:
1. Pre-Existing Conditions: This most of us understand because it is common to see this as an exclusion in health insurance for humans. In pet insurance, a pre-existing condition is usually something that your pet has before the policy start date. This includes conditions that may not have been diagnosed yet so just because you have not taken your pet to the vet and know they have a condition does not guarantee that you will get covered for the condition.
2. Hereditary Conditions: This really depends on your policy if it is an exclusion or not. And, if hereditary conditions are covered they are usually covered at a lower level.
3. Congenital Conditions: Congenital conditions are not covered because they are considered pre-existing. These are congenital problems that a pet is born with. Some examples include patellar luxation, entropion, ectropion, liver shunt.
4. Fleas, Ticks, and Other Parasites: Some pet insurance policies may provide benefits for preventative medications against parasites but for the most part, getting rid of the parasites would not be covered.
5. Preventable Diseases and Chosen Procedures: Anything that a pet could get a vaccination for to prevent is generally not covered. Also, any procedures you would choose yourself to have done, such as tail docking, is considered an elective procedure and is usually excluded.
6. Teeth Cleaning: Dental care is provided if it is needed due to an injury or accident but general dental preventative care, such as teeth cleaning, is usually not a coverage in pet insurance.