Pet Insurance in California: Top 20 Companies

Pet Insurance in California – Pet ownership is a rewarding experience that comes with a variety of responsibilities. One significant aspect of responsible pet ownership is ensuring that your pet receives proper medical care. Veterinary bills can be unexpectedly high, making pet insurance an essential investment for pet owners. In California, there are numerous pet insurance providers, each offering different plans and coverage options to suit various needs and budgets. This comprehensive guide will delve into the top 20 pet insurance companies in California, providing detailed information on their services, rates, customer reviews, and contact information. Additionally, we will answer frequently asked questions about pet insurance and provide a list of relevant tags for easy reference.

Why Pet Insurance is Essential

Pet insurance offers numerous benefits, including:

• Financial Protection: Veterinary treatments, especially emergency care and surgeries, can be costly. Pet insurance helps mitigate these expenses, ensuring that you are not faced with difficult financial decisions during a medical crisis.
• Comprehensive Care: Insurance can cover a wide range of medical services, from routine check-ups to major surgeries, ensuring that your pet receives comprehensive care throughout their life.
• Peace of Mind: Knowing that you have a safety net for your pet’s health expenses allows you to focus on providing the best care without worrying about the financial burden.
• Preventive Care: Many insurance plans offer coverage for preventive care, such as vaccinations, annual exams, and dental cleanings, promoting overall health and early detection of potential issues.

Top 20 Pet Insurance Companies in California

1. Healthy Paws Pet Insurance

• Website: Healthy Paws Pet Insurance
• Phone: (800) 453-4054
• Address: 400 108th Ave NE Ste 300, Bellevue, WA 98004
• Rates: Average monthly premium is $39 for dogs and $12 for cats.
• Customer Reviews: Healthy Paws is praised for its comprehensive coverage and fast claim processing. Customers appreciate the friendly customer service and the company’s commitment to helping pets in need through their foundation. Reviews often highlight the simplicity of their policies and the absence of annual caps on payouts.

2. Nationwide Pet Insurance

• Website: Nationwide Pet Insurance
• Phone: (877) 263-6008
• Address: 1100 Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50391
• Rates: Average monthly premium is $59 for dogs and $22 for cats.
• Customer Reviews: Customers highlight Nationwide’s extensive coverage options and excellent customer support. However, some note that the premiums can be higher compared to other providers. Nationwide offers a unique Whole Pet with Wellness plan that covers nearly every type of medical service your pet might need.

3. ASPCA Pet Health Insurance

• Website: ASPCA Pet Health Insurance
• Phone: (866) 204-6764
• Address: 1208 Massillon Rd Ste G 200, Akron, OH 44306
• Rates: Average monthly premium is $48 for dogs and $23 for cats.
• Customer Reviews: ASPCA Pet Health Insurance is well-regarded for its customizable plans and support for preventive care. Customers also appreciate the compassionate service and the ease of filing claims through their user-friendly mobile app.

4. Trupanion

• Website: Trupanion
• Phone: (855) 210-8749
• Address: 6100 4th Ave S, Seattle, WA 98108
• Rates: Average monthly premium is $70 for dogs and $28 for cats.
• Customer Reviews: Trupanion is known for its straightforward coverage and direct payment to veterinarians. Some customers mention higher premiums, but most find the peace of mind worth the cost. Trupanion also stands out for covering hereditary and congenital conditions.

5. Embrace Pet Insurance

• Website: Embrace Pet Insurance
• Phone: (800) 511-9172
• Address: PO Box 22188, Beachwood, OH 44122
• Rates: Average monthly premium is $45 for dogs and $25 for cats.
• Customer Reviews: Embrace receives high marks for its wellness rewards program and flexibility in coverage options. Customers appreciate the responsive and helpful customer service, as well as the annual deductible that only needs to be met once per year.

6. Petplan

• Website: Petplan
• Phone: (844) 251-5462
• Address: 3805 West Chester Pike Ste 240, Newtown Square, PA 19073
• Rates: Average monthly premium is $49 for dogs and $32 for cats.
• Customer Reviews: Petplan is favored for its no lifetime limit on claims and comprehensive illness and injury coverage. Some customers mention longer claim processing times, but they appreciate the extensive coverage and support for chronic conditions.

7. Figo Pet Insurance

• Website: Figo Pet Insurance
• Phone: (844) 738-3446
• Address: 540 N Dearborn St #10873, Chicago, IL 60610
• Rates: Average monthly premium is $52 for dogs and $28 for cats.
• Customer Reviews: Figo is appreciated for its 24/7 pet cloud and user-friendly app. Customers find the digital experience seamless but note that premiums can vary significantly. Figo offers three levels of coverage, allowing pet owners to choose the plan that best fits their needs and budget.

8. Pets Best

• Website: Pets Best
• Phone: (877) 738-7237
• Address: 2323 S Vista Ave Ste 100, Boise, ID 83705
• Rates: Average monthly premium is $42 for dogs and $18 for cats.
• Customer Reviews: Pets Best is known for its flexible plans and direct vet pay option. Customers highlight the quick claim reimbursements and competitive pricing. Pets Best also offers an accident-only plan for budget-conscious pet owners.

9. 24PetWatch

• Website: 24PetWatch
• Phone: (866) 597-2424
• Address: 1 Richmond St W Ste 400, Toronto, ON M5H 3W4, Canada
• Rates: Average monthly premium is $55 for dogs and $32 for cats.
• Customer Reviews: Customers appreciate the extensive coverage options but have mixed reviews about the claims process, with some finding it slow. 24PetWatch is noted for its comprehensive policies that include lost pet recovery services.

10. PetFirst

• Website: PetFirst
• Phone: (855) 270-7387
• Address: 400 Missouri Ave Ste 105, Jeffersonville, IN 47130
• Rates: Average monthly premium is $35 for dogs and $25 for cats.
• Customer Reviews: PetFirst is praised for its affordable premiums and fast claim processing. Customers value the straightforward coverage terms and the option to add routine care coverage.

11. AKC Pet Insurance

• Website: AKC Pet Insurance
• Phone: (866) 725-2747
• Address: 8051 Arco Corporate Dr Ste 350, Raleigh, NC 27617
• Rates: Average monthly premium is $47 for dogs and $29 for cats.
• Customer Reviews: AKC Pet Insurance is appreciated for its breeder support and comprehensive coverage options. Some customers mention the premiums can be higher for certain breeds, but the coverage is extensive, including hereditary and congenital conditions.

12. Hartville Pet Insurance

• Website: Hartville Pet Insurance
• Phone: (800) 799-5852
• Address: 1208 Massillon Rd Ste G 200, Akron, OH 44306
• Rates: Average monthly premium is $44 for dogs and $23 for cats.
• Customer Reviews: Hartville is known for its customizable plans and good customer service. Customers appreciate the affordable rates but have mixed reviews on claim processing times. Hartville offers multiple plan levels, making it easier to find the right coverage for your pet.

13. Progressive Pet Insurance

• Website: Progressive Pet Insurance
• Phone: (800) 776-4737
• Address: 6300 Wilson Mills Rd, Mayfield Village, OH 44143
• Rates: Average monthly premium is $36 for dogs and $22 for cats.
• Customer Reviews: Progressive offers competitive rates and is appreciated for bundling options with other insurance products. Customers find the claims process efficient and straightforward, and the ability to manage all policies through a single provider is a bonus.

14. Prudent Pet

• Website: Prudent Pet
• Phone: (888) 225-9304
• Address: 1 E Erie St Ste 525, Chicago, IL 60611
• Rates: Average monthly premium is $44 for dogs and $23 for cats.
• Customer Reviews: Prudent Pet is well-reviewed for its comprehensive coverage and excellent customer service. Customers appreciate the transparent pricing and fast reimbursements. Prudent Pet also offers accident-only and comprehensive plans, catering to various needs and budgets.

15. Pet Assure

• Website: Pet Assure
• Phone: (888) 789-7387
• Address: 115 E Main St Ste 202, Denville, NJ 07834
• Rates: Discount program starts at $11.95/month.
• Customer Reviews: Pet Assure is not traditional insurance but offers a discount plan. Customers like the immediate savings and no exclusions for pre-existing conditions but note it’s not a substitute for comprehensive insurance. Pet Assure provides a straightforward way to save on vet bills without the complexity of traditional insurance policies.

16. USAA Pet Insurance

• Website: USAA Pet Insurance
• Phone: (800) 531-8722
• Address: 9800 Fredericksburg Rd, San Antonio, TX 78288
• Rates: Average monthly premium is $45 for dogs and $25 for cats.
• Customer Reviews: USAA is known for its customer service and military-friendly policies. Customers appreciate the seamless integration with other USAA products but find the pet insurance options somewhat limited. USAA partners with Embrace to offer pet insurance, providing comprehensive coverage through a trusted name.

17. Geico Pet Insurance

• Website: Geico Pet Insurance
• Phone: (800) 793-2003
• Address: 5260 Western Ave, Chevy Chase, MD 20815
• Rates: Average monthly premium is $30 for dogs and $18 for cats.
• Customer Reviews: Geico offers affordable pet insurance plans and easy online management. Customers appreciate the competitive rates and straightforward claims process. Geico’s partnership with Embrace means policyholders benefit from comprehensive coverage options and customer support.

18. Liberty Mutual Pet Insurance

• Website: Liberty Mutual Pet Insurance
• Phone: (888) 398-8924
• Address: 175 Berkeley St, Boston, MA 02116
• Rates: Average monthly premium is $39 for dogs and $22 for cats.
• Customer Reviews: Liberty Mutual is praised for its comprehensive coverage and discount options. Customers find the claims process efficient but note that premiums can be on the higher side. Liberty Mutual’s partnership with Hartville Pet Insurance provides reliable coverage backed by a reputable company.

19. Banfield Pet Hospital

• Website: Banfield Pet Hospital
• Phone: (866) 894-7927
• Address: 18101 SE 6th Way, Vancouver, WA 98683
• Rates: Monthly wellness plans start at $25 for dogs and $21 for cats.
• Customer Reviews: Banfield offers wellness plans rather than traditional insurance. Customers appreciate the preventive care packages and the convenience of in-house services but note it doesn’t cover emergencies or unexpected illnesses. Banfield’s Optimum Wellness Plans are ideal for routine care and early detection of health issues.

20. VPI Pet Insurance

• Website: VPI Pet Insurance
• Phone: (800) 872-7387
• Address: 1800 E Imperial Hwy Ste 145, Brea, CA 92821
• Rates: Average monthly premium is $48 for dogs and $25 for cats.
• Customer Reviews: VPI, part of Nationwide, is known for its reliable coverage and extensive network of veterinarians. Customers value the detailed plans and efficient claim processing but mention the premiums can be higher. VPI offers a variety of plans to suit different needs, from basic accident coverage to comprehensive medical care.

FAQs About Pet Insurance

1. What does pet insurance typically cover?

Pet insurance generally covers accidents, illnesses, surgeries, and emergency care. Some plans also include wellness and preventive care, such as vaccinations and routine check-ups. Coverage specifics can vary, so it’s important to review policy details carefully.

2. How is the cost of pet insurance determined?

The cost of pet insurance is determined by several factors including the pet’s age, breed, and health history, as well as the coverage level and deductible chosen. Geographic location and the chosen insurance provider also influence premiums.

3. Are pre-existing conditions covered by pet insurance?

Most pet insurance policies do not cover pre-existing conditions. It’s important to enroll your pet in insurance while they are young and healthy to avoid exclusions. Some companies may offer limited coverage for pre-existing conditions after a waiting period.

4. Can I use any veterinarian with my pet insurance plan?

Many pet insurance plans allow you to use any licensed veterinarian, but some may have preferred networks or offer better benefits if you use an in-network provider. It’s crucial to verify if your chosen vet is covered under the policy.

5. How do I file a pet insurance claim?

To file a pet insurance claim, you typically need to submit a claim form along with the invoice from your veterinarian. Some companies offer online claim submissions or mobile apps for convenience. Ensure you keep detailed records and receipts to facilitate the claims process.