How much does pet insurance cost per month?

How Much Does Pet Insurance💡 Definition:Insurance coverage for veterinary expenses and pet health care, ranging from routine visits to emergency surgery. Cost Per Month?

As pet owners, we cherish our furry companions and want the best for them, including access to quality veterinary care. Pet insurance can help manage the financial burden of unexpected medical expenses💡 Definition:Healthcare costs refer to expenses for medical services, impacting budgets and financial planning.. However, understanding how much pet insurance costs per month is crucial for 💡 Definition:A spending plan that tracks income and expenses to ensure you're living within your means and working toward financial goals.budgeting💡 Definition:Process of creating a plan to spend your money on priorities, including fixed expenses like pet care. purposes. In this article, we'll explore the average costs, factors influencing premiums, and what you should consider before purchasing a policy.

Average Monthly Costs for Pet Insurance

In 2025, the average monthly premium💡 Definition:The amount you pay (monthly, quarterly, or annually) to maintain active insurance coverage. for pet insurance in the U.S. is approximately $60 for dogs and $32 for cats. These figures reflect the typical costs for accident and illness coverage, which is the most common type of policy.

Dogs: Monthly premiums can range from $44 to $92, depending on the breed. For instance, French Bulldogs often have higher premiums around $92/month due to their predisposition to certain health issues, while Goldendoodles might cost around $44/month.
Cats: Cat insurance is generally more affordable, with premiums ranging from $27 to $31. The national average hovers near $32/month, with breed-specific variations.

Factors Influencing Pet Insurance Costs

Several factors affect how much you'll pay for pet insurance:

Breed: Certain breeds are prone to specific health conditions, leading to higher premiums. For example, large breeds or those with known genetic issues might incur more costs.
Age: Premiums typically increase as pets age, reflecting the higher likelihood of health problems.
Location: Veterinary care costs vary by region. Urban areas with higher costs often result in higher insurance premiums.
Coverage Level: Policies with higher annual limits, lower deductibles, and higher reimbursement rates usually come with higher premiums.

Real-World Examples

Let's look at some practical examples to illustrate these points:

Goldendoodle in Chicago: A 4-year-old Goldendoodle with 80% co-insurance💡 Definition:Percentage of medical costs you pay after meeting deductible. 20% coinsurance on $1,000 bill = you pay $200, insurance pays $800., a $250 deductible, and a maximum annual limit might pay around $61/month.
French Bulldog: Known for their health issues, insuring a French Bulldog can cost about $92/month.
Maine Coon Cat: A Maine Coon might have premiums around $31/month, reflecting the generally lower cost of insuring cats.

These examples underscore how breed, location, and policy specifics play a role in determining insurance costs.

Common Mistakes and Considerations

Before purchasing pet insurance, keep the following in mind:

Coverage Types: Understand the difference between accident-only and comprehensive accident and illness coverage. Accident-only plans are cheaper but don't cover illnesses like cancer or allergies.
Exclusions: Pre-existing conditions are typically not covered, so it's important to insure pets when they are young and healthy.
Rising Costs: Veterinary costs have risen over 60% in the past decade, making insurance more valuable but also potentially more expensive over time.
Policy Customization: You can adjust deductibles, reimbursement rates, and annual limits to fit your budget, but these adjustments will💡 Definition:A will is a legal document that specifies how your assets should be distributed after your death, ensuring your wishes are honored. affect your monthly premiums.

Bottom Line

Pet insurance can provide peace of mind and financial protection against unexpected veterinary expenses. In 2025, the average monthly cost is about $60 for dogs and $32 for cats, with significant variation based on several factors, including breed, age, and location. By understanding the factors that influence premiums and tailoring a policy to your needs, you can ensure your pet gets the care they deserve without breaking the bank. Always compare different providers and policy options💡 Definition:Options are contracts that grant the right to buy or sell an asset at a set price, offering potential profit with limited risk. to find the best fit for you and your pet.