Best Pet Insurance For Chihuahuas

Chihuahuas, cherished for their tiny size and big personalities, are beloved toy breeds. Originating from Mexico, they have become renowned for their spirited and bold nature, despite their diminutive stature. With their small frames and variable coat colors, including smooth and long-haired varieties, Chihuahuas capture attention with their unique charm.

Playful and confident, Chihuahuas thrive as companions, often forming strong bonds with their owners. Their alertness and spirited character make them excellent little watchdogs. As affectionate and feisty companions, Chihuahuas endear themselves with their lively and affectionate demeanor. Renowned for their small size and huge personalities, Chihuahuas continue to be one of the most cherished toy breeds worldwide.

If you own a Chihuahua, you’re undoubtedly concerned about its health and well-being. As a pure breed, a Chihuahua is more likely to suffer from genetic health issues than mixed-breed dogs. Unfortunately, 4 out of 5 pet parents can’t pay for an unexpected $500 veterinary bill out-of-pocket. However, pet insurance will help you reduce your financial risk.

In this review, we’ll look at some of the top pet insurers for Chihuahuas and help you pick the policy that best meets your needs. You’ll find that pet insurance is much like personal health insurance; it provides better treatment options and limits out-of-pocket costs. But unlike private health insurance, it won’t cost you an arm and a leg.

Common Health Issues For Chihuahuas

Purebred canines, like Chihuahuas, often experience health challenges. Over time, certain breeders have not given enough attention to genetics when breeding Chihuahuas, resulting in problems that affect the entire Chihuahua community. Generally, Chihuahuas are more likely to have genetic health issues compared to other breeds.

Here are some common health concerns for Chihuahuas:

• Patellar Luxation
• Dental Problems (due to their small mouths)
• Heart Murmurs and Heart Disease
• Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
• Hydrocephalus (in some cases)
• Collapsing Trachea
• Luxating Trachea

Patellar Luxation

Patellar luxation is a common orthopedic issue in small dog breeds, such as Chihuahuas. This condition occurs when the kneecap (patella) dislocates from its normal position, leading to discomfort and impaired mobility. Chihuahuas may exhibit lameness and pain when this happens. Depending on the severity, patellar luxation can be managed through physical therapy, weight control, or surgical correction to ensure the Chihuahua’s comfort and mobility.

Surgical treatment for patellar luxation typically ranges from $1,500 to $5,000 per leg

Dental Problems (Due To Their Small Mouths)

Chihuahuas are prone to dental problems due to their tiny mouths and overcrowded teeth. This makes them susceptible to issues like gum disease and tooth decay. Regular dental check-ups and dental care, such as tooth brushing and dental chews, are essential to prevent dental problems and maintain their overall health.

The cost of dog teeth cleaning typically ranges from $250 to $700.

Heart Murmurs And Heart Disease

Chihuahuas can be predisposed to heart murmurs and heart disease, particularly as they age. These conditions may result from issues like mitral valve disease. Regular veterinary check-ups and early detection through echocardiograms can help manage these heart conditions with appropriate medications, ultimately improving the Chihuahua’s quality of life.

The cost of treatment for heart disease in dogs can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars per year

Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar)

Chihuahuas are susceptible to hypoglycemia, a condition characterized by low blood sugar levels. Their small size and fast metabolism make them prone to sudden drops in blood sugar, leading to symptoms like weakness, trembling, and seizures. Preventing hypoglycemia involves feeding small, frequent meals, monitoring sugar levels, and providing immediate glucose supplementation when necessary.

The cost of treatment for hypoglycemia in dogs can range from $500 to $1,000.

Hydrocephalus (In Some Cases)

Hydrocephalus is a rare but serious condition that can affect Chihuahuas, especially puppies. It involves an accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain, leading to an enlarged head and neurological symptoms. Treatment may involve surgery to alleviate the fluid buildup and reduce pressure on the brain. Early diagnosis is crucial for managing hydrocephalus and improving the affected Chihuahua’s prognosis.

The cost of surgical treatment for hydrocephalus typically ranges from $2,000 to $5,000.

Collapsing Trachea

Collapsing trachea is a respiratory issue that can affect Chihuahuas. It involves the weakening of the tracheal rings, leading to coughing and breathing difficulties. Management often includes weight control, avoiding irritants like smoke, and using a harness instead of a collar to reduce tracheal pressure. Medications and, in severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to alleviate symptoms and improve the Chihuahua’s respiratory health.

Treatment for collapsing trachea typically ranges from $2,000 to $4,000.

Luxating Trachea

Luxating trachea is another respiratory concern in Chihuahuas, where the tracheal rings can collapse during breathing, causing coughing and discomfort. Preventive measures include maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding activities that strain the trachea. Medications and lifestyle adjustments can help manage the condition, ensuring the Chihuahua’s respiratory well-being. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for monitoring and addressing any tracheal issues promptly.

Surgical treatment for luxating trachea typically ranges from $2,000 to $4,000.

Average Cost Of Pet Insurance For Chihuahuas

Average Cost Of Typical Vet Procedures

Average Cost Of Emergency Vet Procedures

Is Pet Insurance Worth It For Chihuahuas?

Pet insurance protects against unexpected veterinary bills. Many pet owners pay out-of-pocket for their pet’s medical expenses, but most Americans can’t afford a $1500 emergency vet bill. The right pet insurance can literally be a lifesaver. Having coverage will give you the freedom to make medical decisions for your furry family member based on the quality of life, not finances.

The value of pet insurance is largely based on your expectations. If your pet is currently undergoing treatment for a chronic condition and you would like help with the cost of the treatment, you will likely be disappointed as no company in our review covers preexisting conditions.

But, if you understand your policy and what it does and doesn’t cover and have a policy that fits your budget and needs, you are far more likely to consider the policy worth it.

How To Find The Best Pet Insurance Company For You

The costs and types of pet insurance plans available on the market vary by company, making choosing one over the others challenging. To find the best plan for your pet, consider these tips before applying for coverage:

Check Whether Your Pet Is Eligible

Puppies and kittens often must be a minimum of 6 to 10 weeks old to be insured, depending on the company. Senior pets may not be eligible for first-time enrollment with some companies, or they may qualify for accident coverage only. Once the pet is enrolled, though, most plans will offer coverage for life as long as you continue paying the premiums.

Research What’s Covered

Pet insurance plans typically cover expenses like surgery, hospitalization and medication if your pet gets sick or hurt. However, there are certain things that some companies charge extra for or won’t cover at all. Here are a few examples:

• Exam fees. Say your dog breaks her leg. Some plans will reimburse expenses like X-rays,  surgery and pain medication, but not the vet’s exam fee.
• Alternative treatments and rehabilitation. Some companies include coverage for things like acupuncture and physical therapy in their standard plans. Others charge extra.
• Behavioral therapies. Not all policies cover veterinary treatment for aggression or other behavioral issues.
• Prescription food. Certain plans won’t cover food or supplements at all, even if your vet prescribes them for a covered condition.·
• Dental care. Pet insurance plans vary widely when it comes to caring for your pet’s teeth. For example, your policy may not cover dental illnesses such as gingivitis or periodontal disease. Alternatively, it may cover them only if your pet has had a recent tooth cleaning. Some add-on wellness plans pay for cleanings.

Note that pet insurance policies usually won’t cover pre-existing conditions, cosmetic procedures, or breeding expenses.

Decide How Much Coverage You Want

Most pet insurance plans cap the amount they pay out per year, although some have no annual limit. Only you can decide the amount that gives you reasonable peace of mind for paying vet bills.

If your dog or cat is relatively healthy, you might go years without paying for anything but routine care. But an unexpected surgery or serious illness could add up to thousands of dollars in expenses.

Understand Reimbursements And Deductibles

Most pet insurance plans reimburse you for a percentage of your vet bill. You can generally choose a reimbursement level — such as 70%, 80% or 90% — when you buy the plan.

Other plans pay what the insurance company deems a standard fee for a given treatment, which might be less than what your vet charges. You’d be responsible for the remainder.

Most plans also have a deductible — the dollar amount you pay out of pocket before the policy pays. You can usually choose from a range of deductibles, such as $100, $250, or more. Some plans apply deductibles to each injury or illness that’s treated. Most have you pay the deductible every year.

Generally, the lower your out-of-pocket costs are, the more you’ll pay for coverage. Alower deductible and higher reimbursement rate can lead to a higher premium, while a higher deductible and lower reimbursement rate can mean a lower premium.

Check Waiting Periods

Most plans include short waiting periods after you purchase the policy for general accident and illness coverage, such as 14 days. Your plan won’t pay for any treatment during the waiting period.

Some plans include longer waiting periods for coverage of certain conditions, such as cruciate ligament injuries — a common orthopedic problem for dogs. The cruciate ligaments help stabilize the knee; when injured, it can make it difficult for a dog to walk.

Examine Extra Costs

Some pet insurance companies offer coverage for routine services such as well visits and vaccinations. While this may sound tempting, do the math to determine whether it’s worth the extra cost. Compare the annual price of the wellness insurance plan with the amount you’d pay each year on your own for services the plan covers. Read the details because the items covered for “wellness” vary by pet insurance company.

Compare Quotes

The cost of insurance varies by carrier and the amount of coverage. Some pet insurers offer discounts; you might be able to save money by insuring more than one pet, for example. But a discount doesn’t guarantee the plan is the best deal.

The only way to find the best insurance for your pet is to dig into the details and get quotes for several plans. Make sure you’re making a fair comparison with similar coverage amounts, deductibles, and reimbursement limits.

Factors That Impact Cost Of Your Pet Insurance Policy

Similar to your health insurance plan, your pet insurance price is going to vary depending on certain factors, such as:

• Where you live. Pet insurance companies take the cost of vet care in your area into account when pricing your policy.
• Your pet’s age. Because older animals are more likely to have health problems, their premiums are generally higher.
• Your pet’s breed. Certain breeds are more prone to health issues. For example, bulldogs and Boston terriers often develop breathing problems, while German Shepherds and other large breeds are more likely than others to get hip dysplasia. These potential problems may be reflected in the cost of your pet insurance plan.
• Your deductibles, coinsurance and coverage limits. The less you’re willing to pay out of pocket for your pet’s care, the higher your pet insurance premium will be. For instance, choosing a $100 deductible instead of a $500 one means your plan will start reimbursing you sooner for your pet’s care — but it’ll cost you more in premiums.

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