In recent years most of the insurance companies have realised that there is money to be made from pet insurance. When I got my first cat there were only a few companies offering pet insurance cover but these days practically every major insurance company has some form of pet cover plan. However, this increased competition does not necessarily make it any easier to pick the policy that is right for you and your pet.
Cat insurance prices vary greatly and in general range from $200 to $600 (£120 to £360) or more a year. However, it is important that you read the small print before you decide on which policy to take out.
The first point you need to check is exactly what is covered. Most policies stipulate an upper limit of cover such as a maximum amount that is covered for each injury or illness. This can often be less than the actual costs involved especially if the treatment includes an operation. It is not unusual for a pet owner to find that even though they are insured they have to pay out a big amount of the cost themselves. Most companies also have a maximum annual amount that the policy will cover.
Pet insurance policies also vary in what they actually offer. For instance some not only cover the cost of your pet's treatment but also the cost of vaccinations and cattery fees should you be hospitalised. Another important factor to check is the excess payment. This simply means that you have to pay a given amount before you can claim any costs back. For example, if your pets treatment costs $280 (£200) you may have to pay the first $100 (£60) yourself. As a general rule the cheaper the insurance the greater the excess will be.
It is well worth insuring your pet as early as possible because the older your cat is the more it will cost to insure it. Unlike other insurance policies where it can pay to shop around and move from insurer to insurer this is not the case with pet insurance. Once a cat reaches a certain age, usually around 8 years old it can be either difficult or very expensive to get it insured. Normally, a company is quite happy to renew existing policies year on year, although the annual premium rises a little but they will be reluctant to take on older cats as new business...
Before selecting a pet insurance plan decide exactly what cover you need and read the small print before signing up to any policy. If you are in any doubt it can be worth discussing the matter with your vet who will be only to happy to advise you.
Being a cat owner comes with responsibilities you need to know about Cat Care. To find free articles about looking after your cat visit http://www.cat-lovers.co.uk
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=D_J_Bromley
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