Are pre-existing conditions covered by pet insurance?
Written by
Victoria Hayes
Reviewed by
Prof. Henry Webster, Ph.D.Pre-existing conditions are a huge factor when it comes to pet insurance. This refers to any health conditions that have been diagnosed prior to your policy taking effect. Across the board, insurance companies exclude these to prevent fraud and keep their plans affordable. Knowing this rule can help mitigate any claim denials you may incur. Always include all of your pet's medical history when enrolling.
Curable Conditions
- Ear infections eligible after 6 symptom-free months
- Urinary tract infections covered after 12 months remission
- Skin allergies reinstated with veterinary clearance
- Respiratory issues covered after documented recovery
Incurable Conditions
- Diabetes diagnosed before enrollment permanently excluded
- Arthritis remains uncovered regardless of policy changes
- Heart conditions documented prior stay excluded
- Cancer diagnoses before coverage start ineligible
Documentation Requirements
- Veterinary records proving symptom-free periods
- Diagnostic tests confirming condition resolution
- Breed-specific predisposition documentation
- Enrollment date verification against diagnosis dates
Insurers will require medical documentation proving the absence of symptoms in curable conditions. Veterinary records may also be required to demonstrate that the dog hasn't received any treatment or exhibited symptoms during the waiting period. In the case of an ear infection, for example, there may be a period of six months without ear treatments or recurrence. Keep meticulous records of all your pet's health events.
The timing of enrollment indicates what is pre-existing. If conditions are diagnosed during the waiting periods of a policy, they become permanent exclusions. Therefore, it is essential to enroll your puppy or kitten immediately after adoption. Puppies and kittens with no known medical history will also be exempt from the majority of pre-existing exclusions included in the policy.
Some insurers provide *conditional coverage* for existing conditions. These coverage conditional policies tend to be more expensive and often don't cover other complications stemming from the original issue. Evaluate these plans carefully, as they may not offer the same level of protection as their counterparts. It's frequently suggested that you enroll in a standard plan even if it's not practicable.
Before enrolling your pet, please request your pet's veterinary records and review them against the policy definitions. It's also a good idea to ask insurers specific questions about borderline conditions and to document all communications. This provides you with protection in case a claim is unexpectedly denied later.
Read the full article: 10 Essential Pet Insurance Benefits Explained
