Having a pet brings you a host of benefits, both physical and emotional. So, it’s only natural that you want to keep your precious pet in perfect health so they stay with you for as long as possible. Sadly, your pet is not immune to diseases and unfortunate accidents, hence many people’s interest in taking out pet insurance to reduce hefty vet bills. However, be aware that most companies do not include flea-and-tick medication in their basic insurance policies, as these treatments are generally considered preventive care.
That said, some pet insurance companies do offer the option of adding preventive coverage for an additional monthly cost, which may include flea-and-tick treatment.
Why Should You Get Insurance for Your Pet?
The financial burden of caring for your furry friend can quickly weigh heavily on your budget. Pet insurance enables you to share the costs of various veterinary treatments with your insurer and avoid having to make heartbreaking compromises on your pet’s health.
When shopping for an insurance company, you must carefully read the different protections offered in each package to find the one that best meets your needs and those of your pet. Generally, insurance companies offer basic protection that covers dental care, accidents, and certain illnesses (hypothyroidism, ear infections, digestive problems, urinary tract infections, etc.), up to a maximum annual amount.
Its always worth comparing plans when getting pet insurance to see which one is right for you.
Top Rated Pet Insurance Companies:
Therefore, your insurance should cover part, or even all, of the costs in instances that you must pay for care related to an illness or accident. Depending on the package chosen, alternative therapies, behavioral and medical devices may also be covered, along with preventive care.
What Is Preventive Care?
Preventive care helps protect against the development of diseases in your pet by ensuring regular care. Flea-and-tick medication is usually part of the preventive care offered by most pet insurance companies, in addition to vaccinations, wellness exams, and screenings. These routine checkups can be especially important for cats, as felines are more likely than dogs to hide their symptoms when sick or injured. You might miss the signs that something is wrong with your cat if you don’t take them to the vet regularly.
Here are a few treatments that may be covered by preventive coverage:
How Much Does Preventive Care Cost?
Depending on the insurance company and the plan chosen, you should expect to pay between $10 and $30 more per month on top of your basic monthly premium.
To give you an idea of the costs, here’s what the ASPCA Pet Health Insurance includes in monthly preventative coverage (prime preventive care):
How Much Does Pet Insurance Cost in North America?
According to the North American Pet Health Insurance Association, the monthly cost of pet insurance, or one’s insurance premium, is primarily based on the type of animal that you are insuring, typically a dog or cat, though a few insurance companies will cover exotic animals. Other factors also go into the calculation, including your pet’s breed, size, and age and where you live. In general, monthly premiums can range from as low as $10 to over $100, though most pet owners can expect to pay between $30 and $60 per month for a plan with decent coverage.
Tips for Keeping Your Pet Safe
Getting health insurance for your beloved pet is one option, but you can also help prevent flea-and-tick infestations by taking a few simple steps:
Final Thoughts
Fleas and ticks are tiny parasites that can transmit diseases to your pet. This is why it is essential to take preventive measures so your four-legged friend does not become infected. You may be able to pay your insurance company a monthly supplement for preventative care that includes flea-and-tick medication.
Featured Image Credit: Dmitriev Mikhail, Shutterstock
