You are the proud owner of one or more pets. You are wondering whether you should take them out with animal health insurance or not. In general, this is optional, but it is strongly recommended. What is it about ? What does it cover? What type of insurance should you choose for your pets?
What is animal insurance?
As its name suggests, animal insurance is a contract of mutual health intended for pets. It is also called an animal mutual. It is there to cover the health costs of your dog, your cat or any other pet in the event of illness or accident. You can discover here more information on mutual health insurance for these animals.
However, it must be distinguished from civil liability. This covers you as the owner in the event of damage caused by the animal. It is often included in the clauses of the comprehensive home insurance contract. For animal mutual insurance, it covers you in the event of illness or accident of your animal.
Subscription to these two types of contracts is not compulsory. But as already said, it is recommended. Indeed, you never know if your pet will end up having an accident or suddenly falling ill. At this time, medical expenses can be high.
What does animal health insurance cover?
Pet insurance offers extensive coverage to reduce the cost of medical care for your pet. The level of coverage varies from one insurer to another. But generally speaking, animal insurance partially or completely covers:
- veterinary consultation;
- prescribed medications;
- hospital costs: fees, interventions, examinations;
- vaccinations;
- sterilization;
- descaling;
- wormers.
But some insurers also offer optional coverage such as cremation costs. They can also help you search for your animal in the event of its disappearance. Check with your insurer to find out exactly what coverage is included in the mutual insurance for animals.
What does pet health insurance not cover?
Like any type of insurance, mutual insurance for animals also has exclusions. These depend on the animal and the formula chosen. This mutual insurance does not cover:
- costs for ocular prostheses;
- identification costs such as tattooing;
- special foods such as dietetic foods;
- the age of the animal: most insurers refuse to insure animals that are too old.
So, to avoid unpleasant surprises, also find out about these exclusions before taking out animal insurance.
How to choose the best pet insurance?
There are many pet insurance policies. They all claim to be an expert in this field. However, this is not the case for some of them. Among the different offers, how do you find the best one?
Choose the guarantees according to your animal. Their needs vary depending on their breed, age and general health. Opt for insurance that covers the care that suits them. In addition, study each formula offered by insurers. Guarantee levels and price depend on the plan you choose. You have the choice between economical formulas, intermediate formulas and premium formulas.
Using the formulas, check the deductible and the reimbursement rate. Pay attention to the waiting period. If you want to get competitive prices, compete. To do this, compare these different elements stated previously. So, by finding better mutual insurance for your animal, it allows it to be better protected.