"You could pay less for cover if you insure your pets on a multi-pet policy. Some insurers even offer multi-pet discounts. Also, it means less admin for you as it's easier to look after 1 policy instead of several."
What our pet insurance expert says
Types of pet insurance
What are the different types of multi-pet insurance?
There are 4 types of multi-pet insurance:
- Accident only
- Time-limited cover
- Maximum benefit cover
- Lifetime cover
Accident only. This is the most basic level of cover available, and usually the cheapest. It only pays out for accidents and has a limit for each year.
Time-limited cover. This covers your pets for accidents and emergencies. It also has a yearly limit. After this, you need to renew the policy. But your policy might not cover new conditions that your pets have developed.
Maximum benefit cover. This has a maximum amount of money that your insurer pays out. You can use it to cover the cost of accidents or emergencies for your pets. When your insurer has paid out the full amount, you have to pay for treatments yourself.
Lifetime cover. This is the highest level of cover available. It covers your pets for their whole lives up to a yearly limit. It's usually the most expensive option, but covers any conditions your pets develop in their lives. This is as long as the policy was in place when they developed the condition.
Remember, with a multi-pet policy all pets on the policy usually have the same level of cover.
What does multi-pet insurance cover?
Most multi-pet insurance policies will generally cover:
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Missing or lost pets
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Third-party liability
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Vet bills
-
Holiday cancellation
-
Cremation costs
Missing or lost pets. This includes the cost of finding a lost pet, such as money for a reward.
Third-party liability. If your pet causes damage to another person or their property, you're covered if they take legal action.
Vet bills. There’s a limit for treatments but you’re usually covered for vet bills. Routine appointments aren't included. But treatments like emergency dental work because of an accident should be.
Holiday cancellation. You're covered if you need to cancel a holiday because your pet is unwell.
Cremation costs. If your pet dies, you should be covered for the cost of their burial or cremation. Some policies also cover the price you paid for your pet.
You need to check the small print as the exact details depend on the insurer and the policy.
What doesn’t multi-pet insurance cover?
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Pre-existing conditions
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Dangerous dog breeds
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Routine check-ups and vaccinations
Pre-existing conditions. Most insurers don’t cover your pet if they’ve previously been injured or ill.
Dangerous dog breeds. If your pet is one of the breeds banned in the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, you might not be able to get insurance for them.
Routine check-ups and vaccinations. Vet visits such as annual vaccinations and health check-ups and dental checks aren't covered.
Pet insurance guides
Pet insurance for pre-existing medical conditions
Pet insurance usually doesn’t cover pre-existing conditions. Learn more about finding cover for a pet with a pre-existing condition.
Cat and dog vaccinations explained
Your pet's vaccinations are vital to maintain their health. But if you have a new pet it can be overwhelming to work out what you need. We're here to help.
How to claim on your pet insurance
Whenever your pet requires emergency medical care or ongoing treatment, you should check with your insurer to see if you can make a pet insurance claim.
How to stop your dog being stolen
Dogs thefts are increasing as demands for canine companions rise. Here's how you keep your dog safe.
Pet insurance: how much do vet treatments cost?
Many people are unaware of the cost of vet treatments and don't insure their pet - leaving them out of pocket if their pet needs care. Pet insurance can help.
Pet travel: how to travel with a dog or cat
A guide on the options available to you when you're planning your holiday - do you bring your pet with you or keep them at home?
Page last reviewed: 13 October 2023
Reviewed by: Faith Tagg
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