As a pet parent, finding insurance that covers your furry friend’s pre-existing conditions can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Most pet insurance plans exclude pre-existing conditions—illnesses or injuries your pet had before the policy started—such as arthritis, diabetes, allergies, or chronic conditions. This can be incredibly frustrating, especially if your pet already has health issues. But there’s good news: some pet insurance companies offer plans that provide coverage for certain pre-existing conditions, particularly those that are curable or have been symptom-free for a specified period. These plans can be a game-changer for pet parents looking to manage their pet’s ongoing health needs without breaking the bank.
In this article, we’ll explore the top 5 pet insurance plans in 2025 that offer some level of coverage for pre-existing conditions. We’ll break down what each plan covers, their waiting periods, pros and cons, and where possible, provide pricing details to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re dealing with a dog or cat with chronic issues or an adopted senior pet, these plans can offer the peace of mind you’re looking for.
you can Many providers exclude chronic illnesses. But if you’re wondering what typical policies include, check out How Much of Your Vet Bill Does Pet Insurance Really Cover in 2025.
What Are Pre-Existing Conditions in Pets?
Pre-existing conditions are any injuries, illnesses, or abnormalities your pet has before enrolling in a pet insurance plan. This includes conditions diagnosed by a vet or even those you’ve noticed symptoms for, even if not formally diagnosed. Common examples include:
- Arthritis: Joint inflammation causing pain and mobility issues.
- Diabetes: A chronic condition requiring ongoing management.
- Allergies: Skin or food-related reactions.
- Chronic ear infections: Recurring infections that may need repeated treatment.
- Hip dysplasia: A genetic condition affecting joint stability.
- Previous injuries: Such as broken bones or ligament tears.
- Heart conditions: Like heart murmurs or congenital defects.
Most pet insurance plans exclude these conditions if they were present before the policy started or during the waiting period after enrollment. However, some insurers make exceptions, especially for curable conditions.
Can You Really Get Pet Insurance for Pre-Existing Conditions?
While most pet insurance plans exclude pre-existing conditions, some companies offer limited coverage, particularly for curable conditions. A curable condition is one that can be treated and resolved, such as a broken bone or an infection. If your pet has a curable pre-existing condition and it has been fully treated and symptom-free for a certain period (usually 6 months to a year), some plans will cover it if it recurs.
However, incurable conditions—like chronic illnesses or genetic disorders—are generally not covered by most pet insurance plans. That said, AKC Pet Insurance stands out by offering coverage for both curable and incurable pre-existing conditions after a 365-day waiting period, making it a unique option for pets with ongoing health issues.
Top 5 Pet Insurance Companies That Cover Pre-Existing Conditions in 2025
Below are the top 5 pet insurance plans that offer some level of coverage for pre-existing conditions in 2025. Each plan has its own approach to coverage, waiting periods, and pricing, so you can choose the one that best fits your pet’s needs.
1. AKC Pet Insurance
- Coverage for Pre-Existing Conditions: Covers both curable and incurable pre-existing conditions after 365 days of continuous coverage. For cruciate ligament illness and intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), coverage starts after 180 days.
- Waiting Period: 365 days for most pre-existing conditions; 180 days for specific conditions like cruciate ligament and IVDD.
- Pricing: Premiums can be paid monthly or annually, with a 5% discount for multi-pet coverage (not available in all states). Add-ons for wellness, exam coverage, hereditary conditions, breeding, and final respects are available at additional cost. Exact pricing varies by pet age, breed, and location; a quote is needed for specifics.
- Pros:
- Unique coverage for incurable pre-existing conditions after 365 days.
- Available in all 50 states.
- Allows visits to any licensed vet in the U.S. or Canada.
- Customizable plans with add-ons.
- 5% multi-pet discount.
- Cons:
- Pre-existing condition coverage and multi-pet discount not available in all states.
- Long waiting period for coverage.
- Additional costs for add-ons.
2. Embrace Pet Insurance
- Coverage for Pre-Existing Conditions: Covers curable pre-existing conditions if the pet is symptom-free and treatment-free for 12 months. Does not cover incurable conditions like bone/joint issues, allergies, cancer, or diabetes.
- Waiting Period: 12-month observation period for curable pre-existing conditions. Conditions noticed or treated before this period are considered pre-existing.
- Pricing: Offers up to 90% reimbursement on vet bills. Specific pricing depends on pet details and plan customization; a quote is required.
- Pros:
- High claim approval rate (93% last year).
- Excellent customer rating (4.9/5 on Pet Insurance Review).
- Flexible, tailored policies with a transparent claims process.
- Covers curable pre-existing conditions after 12 months.
- Covers hereditary conditions if no signs/treatment before waiting period.
- Cons:
- Does not cover incurable pre-existing conditions.
- Bilateral conditions (e.g., hip dysplasia) not covered if previously affected on one side.
- Requires vet exam and medical history review.
3. Figo Pet Insurance
- Coverage for Pre-Existing Conditions: Covers conditions that have been cured for at least 12 months.
- Waiting Period: 1 day for accidents, 14 days for illnesses, 6 months for orthopedic injuries to dogs (can be waived with a vet exam).
- Pricing: Offers discounts including 5% multi-pet, 15% for Costco members, and a $50 deductible drop yearly without claims. Exact pricing varies; a quote is needed.
- Pros:
- 15% discount for Costco members.
- No upper age limit for enrollment.
- 100% reimbursement option available.
- Claims close in under 3 business days.
- Covers curable conditions healed for 12 months.
- Cons:
- Vet exam fee not covered by basic plan.
- No accident-only plan offered.
- Multiple-pet discount lower than some competitors.
4. ASPCA Pet Insurance
- Coverage for Pre-Existing Conditions: Covers curable pre-existing conditions if cured and symptom-free for 180 days, except for knee and ligament conditions.
- Waiting Period: Standard waiting periods apply (not specified in detail, typically 14 days for accidents and illnesses).
- Pricing: Offers a 10% multi-pet discount; preventive care (e.g., vaccines, dental cleanings) available for additional cost. Exact pricing requires a quote.
- Pros:
- 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Manage account online 24/7.
- Visit any licensed vet in the U.S. or Canada.
- Up to 90% cash back on covered medical expenses.
- Covers hereditary conditions and behavioral issues.
- Cons:
- Does not cover incurable pre-existing conditions.
- Specific exclusions for knee and ligament conditions.
5. Pumpkin Pet Insurance
- Coverage for Pre-Existing Conditions: Covers curable pre-existing conditions if cured and symptom-free for 180 days, except for knee and hind leg ligament conditions.
- Waiting Period: 14 days for accidents and illnesses.
- Pricing: Offers unlimited coverage options; exact pricing varies by pet and plan. A quote is needed for specifics.
- Pros:
- Covers curable pre-existing conditions after 180 days.
- High reimbursement rates (90%).
- Covers alternative therapies and behavioral issues.
- No upper age limit for enrollment.
- Cons:
- Does not cover incurable pre-existing conditions.
- Exclusions for knee and hind leg ligament conditions.
Key Things to Look For in Pet Insurance with Pre-Existing Coverage
When choosing a pet insurance plan that covers pre-existing conditions, consider the following factors:
- Waiting Period: Check how long you must wait before pre-existing conditions are covered. For example, AKC requires 365 days, while ASPCA and Pumpkin require 180 days for curable conditions.
- Definition of “Curable”: Insurers define curable vs. incurable differently. Ensure the plan’s definition aligns with your pet’s condition (e.g., some exclude knee/ligament issues).
- Price vs. Value: Compare premiums against coverage limits, reimbursement rates, and deductibles. Plans with higher reimbursement (e.g., 90%) may offer better value.
- Customer Reviews: Look for feedback on claims processing and customer service, especially for pre-existing condition claims. Embrace’s 4.9/5 rating is a good example.
- Ease of Claim: A straightforward claims process is crucial, as pre-existing condition claims may require extra documentation like vet records.
| Insurer | Pre-Existing Coverage | Waiting Period | Reimbursement | Key Discounts | Customer Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AKC | Curable & incurable after 365 days | 365 days (180 for some) | Up to 90% | 5% multi-pet | Not specified |
| Embrace | Curable after 12 months | 12 months | Up to 90% | None specified | 4.9/5 |
| Figo | Curable after 12 months | 1 day (accidents), 14 days (illnesses), 6 months (orthopedic) | Up to 100% | 5% multi-pet, 15% Costco | Not specified |
| ASPCA | Curable after 180 days (excl. knee/ligament) | 14 days (typical) | Up to 90% | 10% multi-pet | Not specified |
| Pumpkin | Curable after 180 days (excl. knee/ligament) | 14 days | 90% | None specified | Not specified |
Final Thoughts — Is It Worth Getting Pet Insurance for Pre-Existing Conditions?
Pet insurance that covers pre-existing conditions can be a lifeline for pet parents, especially those with dogs or cats prone to chronic issues or adopted senior pets. Plans like AKC’s, which cover even incurable conditions after a 365-day waiting period, are particularly valuable for managing long-term health costs. Even plans that only cover curable conditions, like Embrace, Figo, ASPCA, and Pumpkin, can help offset expenses for recurring issues like ear infections or healed injuries.
These plans offer peace of mind, ensuring you can provide the best care for your pet without financial strain. For pet parents aged 25–50 who are emotionally invested in their pet’s health, these options are worth exploring, especially if your pet has a history of health issues. Always review policy details, compare quotes, and consult your vet to confirm which conditions may qualify as curable.
In conclusion, while most pet insurance plans exclude pre-existing conditions, the five listed above provide viable options for coverage, particularly for curable conditions or after extended waiting periods. By choosing a plan tailored to your pet’s needs, you can ensure they receive the care they deserve throughout their life.
“If you’re also looking for affordable plans, check out our guide to the best cheap pet insurance plans in 2025.”
FAQs
- Can you get pet insurance that covers pre-existing conditions?
Yes, but coverage is limited. Most plans exclude pre-existing conditions, but some cover curable ones after a waiting period (e.g., 180 days to 12 months). AKC is unique in covering both curable and incurable conditions after 365 days. - Which pet insurance is best for chronic illness?
AKC Pet Insurance is the best for chronic (incurable) illnesses, as it covers them after 365 days of continuous coverage. For curable chronic issues, Embrace, Figo, ASPCA, and Pumpkin are strong options. - What counts as a pre-existing condition for dogs?
Any illness, injury, or abnormality noticed or diagnosed before the policy starts or during the waiting period. Examples include arthritis, diabetes, allergies, hip dysplasia, and previous injuries. - Are there waiting periods for pre-existing pet conditions?
Yes, waiting periods vary. AKC requires 365 days for most conditions, while Embrace and Figo require 12 months for curable conditions. ASPCA and Pumpkin require 180 days for curable conditions.
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