Best Pet Insurance For Pre-Existing Conditions In New York
AKC Pet Insurance is my choice for the best pet insurance company in New York for owners of pets with pre-existing conditions.
Our insurance experts spent more than 28 hours comparing and reviewing 31 quotes from 16 pet insurance brands across New York. After careful consideration, the best coverage option for owners of pets with pre-existing conditions was AKC Pet Insurance.
Other companies, like Spot Pet Insurance, Figo Pet Insurance, ASPCA, and MetLife Pet Insurance, also received honorable mentions for specific categories.
The following guide will closely examine these five pet insurance brands and some factors that impact pet insurance rates for dogs and cats with pre-existing conditions.
Best Pet Insurance For Pre-Existing Conditions In New York, 2024
Comparison Of The Best Pet Insurance For Pre-Existing Conditions In New York
| Overall Rating | Best For | Coverage Waiting Period | Average Annual Cost for Cats | Average Annual Cost for Dogs | Get A Quote | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AKC Pet Insurance |
|
Overall Coverage |
2 days for accidents and 14 days for illnesses |
$16.59 |
$33.77 |
Instant Quote |
| Spot Pet Insurance |
|
Affordable Coverage |
14 days for accidents and illnesses |
$16.15 |
$30.58 |
Instant Quote |
| Spot Pet Insurance |
|
Older Pets |
14 days for accidents and illnesses |
$16.15 |
$30.58 |
Instant Quote |
| Figo Pet Insurance |
|
Bilateral Conditions |
1 days for accidents and illnesses |
$18.34 |
$38.12 |
Instant Quote |
| ASPCA Pet Insurance |
|
Hereditary Conditions |
Immediately for preventive care and 14 days for accidents and illnesses |
$21.09 |
$41.63 |
Instant Quote |
| MetLife Pet Insurance |
|
Switching Providers |
Immediately for accidents and 14 days for illnesses |
$20.44 |
$38.54 |
Instant Quote |
What Are Pre-Existing Conditions?
As a pet owner, you might hear the phrase “pre-existing condition” tossed around by insurance companies as you compare quotes for coverage on your dog or cat. Generally, pre-existing conditions include any illness your pet has either shown symptoms for, been diagnosed with, or received treatment for prior to obtaining coverage.
Since these conditions begin before establishing coverage, many pet insurance carriers won’t accept claims related to the illness. However, some providers will categorize pre-existing conditions into curable and incurable. Depending on the coverage, some curable conditions may still receive coverage.
Curable Pre-Existing Conditions
For a pre-existing condition to fall under the “curable” category, it must be an illness that won’t chronically recur once treated. Each carrier will have a different time frame for what they consider a chronic condition. However, most will provide some coverage for the following conditions:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Bladder infections
- Ear infections
- Respiratory infections
- Urinary tract infections
- Gastrointestinal issues
Incurable Pre-Existing Conditions
Unfortunately, incurable pre-existing conditions aren’t likely covered by any provider since they need ongoing treatment or medication. Below are a few of the most common incurable pre-existing conditions for dogs and cats:
- Arthritis
- Cancer
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- Hyperthyroidism
- Kidney disease
What Are Bilateral Conditions?
Generally, a bilateral condition affects both sides of your pet’s body. If a pet develops a bilateral disease, such as hip dysplasia, on one side of its body, it’s very likely to develop the same condition on the other side.
Due to the high-risk nature of the second condition occurring, many pet insurance companies will exclude bilateral conditions from coverage.
Below are some of the most common bilateral conditions:
- Cataracts
- Luxating patellas
- Hip dysplasia
- Elbow dysplasia
Are Hereditary Conditions Considered Pre-Existing?
Hereditary conditions are different conditions your pets are more likely to develop based on the genes passed down through their bloodline. The most common genetic conditions for dogs include allergies, hip dysplasia, and inflammatory bowel disease.
The insurance company will usually deny the claim if your pet shows signs of a hereditary condition before establishing coverage. However, if symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment occur after a policy is activated, it will most likely be covered.
Our Methodology
To determine the best pet insurance for pre-existing conditions in New York, our team analyzed findings from several pet insurance companies throughout the state. We also utilized our team of insurance experts' combined twenty-five years of experience to evaluate each carrier.
It’s important to note that even though the rates listed in this guide are accurate, premiums shift daily and can fluctuate based on a pet’s age or breed.
Quotes Analyzed
Years Of Industry Experience
Brands Reviewed
Research Hours
Pet Insurance Company Reviews
Best Overall Coverage
Key Statistics
Why We Like Them
⇅When caring for a pet with pre-existing conditions, finding the right coverage plan can be hard. However, AKC Pet Insurance offers a comprehensive policy that extends coverage to many curable and chronic pre-existing conditions.
They also offer several options for deductibles and coverage limits to allow you to create the plan that best suits your pet’s needs. Along with flexible deductibles, AKC has several discounts that make plans more affordable, like multi-pet discounts.
On average, New York cat owners pay around $16.59 for coverage, and dog owners pay $33.77.
Benefits & Drawbacks
⇅- Offers coverage for curable and chronic pre-existing conditions
- Flexible coverage options, including an unlimited annual coverage plan
- Multiple discounts for policyholders
- Additional coverage available for breeding and pregnancy ✓
- 180-day waiting period for IVDD and cruciate ligament injuries
- Pets over the age of 8 are only eligible for accident-only coverage ✘
Best Affordable Coverage
Key Statistics
Why We Like Them
⇅Often affordable pricing is associated with less-than-stellar customer service. However, Spot Pet Insurance delivers in both regards. The pet insurance carrier is the most affordable company in New York for pet owners and has an award-winning customer service team.
The knowledgeable staff at Spot Pet Insurance is well-equipped to answer any questions about coverage for your pet’s pre-existing conditions. The company also has several plans that include coverage for most curable pre-existing conditions after a waiting period of 180 days.
Generally, pet owners will pay $16.15 for cat insurance and $30.58 for dog insurance with Spot.
Benefits & Drawbacks
⇅- No age limitations for dogs and cats
- Dental disease and behavioral treatment are included in most plans
- Offers coverage for most curable pre-existing conditions after 180 days
- 24/7 telehealth vet hotline ✓
- Customer service is only available during the week
- 14-day waiting period for accidents and illnesses ✘
Cheapest Rates For Older Pets
Key Statistics
Why We Like Them
⇅Caring for an elderly pet can be extremely rewarding but has some challenges. Many pet insurance organizations will limit the coverage to accident-only or reject pets after a certain age. However, Spot Pet Insurance makes it a priority to assist pet owners with senior pets.
Spot Pet Insurance has no age restrictions and offers additional coverage for issues affecting older pets, like dental disease. They also include curable pre-existing conditions after 180 days in their plans.
Pet owners shopping for coverage with Spot Pet Insurance can expect to pay about $16.15 for cat insurance and $30.58 for dog insurance.
Benefits & Drawbacks
⇅- Senior pets aren’t limited to select coverage options
- Most standard plans include additional coverage for dental disease
- Most curable pre-existing conditions are covered after 180 days
- 24/ telehealth vet hotline ✓
- Customer service is limited to weekdays
- New policyholders must wait 14 days before submitting a claim for an accident or illness ✘
Cheapest Rates For Bilateral Conditions
Key Statistics
Why We Like Them
⇅Pet owners with animals experiencing bilateral conditions can often find it challenging to find affordable coverage. Most companies won’t provide coverage for pets that experience bilateral conditions like hip dysplasia. Luckily, Figo Pet Insurance is one of the few pet insurance companies in New York that doesn’t have a bilateral clause.
Figo Pet Insurance also doesn’t set age limitations for the pets it covers and includes curable pre-existing conditions after 12 months of coverage.
While rates can be a little more expensive, with cat insurance averaging $18.34 and dog insurance averaging $38.12, the added cost is well worth it.
Benefits & Drawbacks
⇅- No age limitation for senior pets
- No bilateral clause in standard policies
- Coverage extended to curable pre-existing conditions after 12 months
- Offers a 24/7 vet helpline for owners ✓
- Plans don’t include coverage for dental illnesses
- Accident-only policies aren’t offered at this time ✘
Cheapest Rates For Hereditary Conditions
Key Statistics
Why We Like Them
⇅Some breeds are prone to certain diseases and illnesses based on their genes and bloodline. For example, boxers are notorious for developing skin allergies during their lifetime. If you have a pet that is likely to develop a hereditary condition, then ASPCA is one of the best options for coverage.
ASPCA covers many hereditary conditions like heart disease, IVDD, eye disorders, and hip dysplasia, as long as the pet is on an active policy when symptoms begin. The pet insurance company also covers most curable pre-existing conditions after six months.
Most cat owners can expect an average monthly premium of $21.09, while dog owners pay around $41.63 for coverage.
Benefits & Drawbacks
⇅- Most curable pre-existing conditions are covered after six months
- No age limitation
- Microchipping and stem cell therapy are offered as add-on coverages
- 14-day waiting period for cruciate injuries ✓
- Slower claims processing than other competitors
- Most quotes are done over the phone instead of online ✘
Cheapest Rates For Owners Looking To Switch Providers
Key Statistics
Why We Like Them
⇅While we all hope to find a vet to work with our pets throughout their lifetime, most owners aren’t lucky enough to remain with a single provider. Whether the break in the relationship is due to a move or a vet retiring, getting to know a new vet can be challenging, especially when your pet has pre-existing conditions.
MetLife Pet Insurance makes the transition from your old clinic to a new provider smooth and painless. They also extend coverage to any pre-existing conditions that occurred while with the other vet and don’t include bilateral exclusions in their policies.
Even though MetLife offers affordable rates, with cat insurance averaging $20.44 and dog insurance averaging $38.54, there are additional discounts that help lower premiums even further.
Benefits & Drawbacks
⇅- Covers pre-existing conditions when switching providers
- Policies don’t include bilateral exclusions
- Numerous discounts available
- Flexible policy options available, including diminishing deductible
- No waiting period for accidents ✓
- 6-month waiting period for cruciate ligament issues
- Doesn’t offer direct vet pay ✘
How Do Pet Insurance Companies Determine A Pre-Existing Condition?
Like our health insurance, pet insurance companies will conduct a medical review on your dog or cat before providing coverage. These review sessions often consist of a thorough medical history examination and sometimes a physical exam by your pet’s vet.
Once the insurance carrier has reviewed your pet’s file, you’ll receive a detailed list of all the eligible coverage items.
Why Are Pre-Existing Conditions A Problem For Pet Owners?
The main problem for pet owners with animals that have a pre-existing condition is managing pet insurance. Many pet insurance organizations won’t cover testing or treatment for any conditions or illnesses the pet had before the policy took effect.
For instance, if your dog shows signs of allergies and you purchase a pet insurance plan to help offset the cost, most carriers won’t reimburse you for ongoing medicine. Similarly, insurance companies may not cover pets developing symptoms during the waiting period.
Average Cost Of Pet Insurance For Pre-Existing Conditions In New York
Average Cost In New York — By Cat Breed
| Cat Breed | Average Monthly Cost |
| Domestic Shorthair | $29 |
| Maine Coon | $33 |
| Persian | $44 |
| Russian Blue | $52 |
Average Cost In New York — By Dog Breed
| Dog Breed | Average Monthly Cost |
| Chihuahua | $47 |
| Golden Retriever | $75 |
| Shetland Sheepdog | $92 |
| Alaskan Malamute | $108 |
Average Cost In New York — By City For Dogs
| City Name | Average Monthly Cost |
| Buffalo | $56 |
| Albany | $60 |
| New York City | $72 |
Average Cost In New York — By City For Cats
| City Name | Average Monthly Cost |
| Buffalo | $28 |
| Albany | $30 |
| New York City | $36 |
How To Find The Best Pet Insurance Company For Pre-Existing Conditions For You
While purchasing pet insurance is involved, buying coverage for a dog or cat with a pre-existing condition can be even more challenging. Many insurance providers won’t cover pre-existing conditions, so comparing quotes and asking questions about what is covered and what isn’t covered is essential.
The best place to start when looking for coverage for a pet with pre-existing conditions is your vet. Speaking with them about situations that could arise later in life will allow you to ask further questions when comparing pet insurance policies.
Once you have all the information on your pet’s illness and potential future issues, it’s time to start looking for policies. Pet insurance companies typically offer one of two options: accident-only or accident and illness coverage.
Since many organizations don’t cover pre-existing conditions, you must determine which coverage makes the most sense for your pet. If your dog or cat is relatively healthy and isn’t susceptible to other illnesses, then an accident-only plan would be a good option.
Largest Pet Insurance Companies In The United States
| Company Name | Estimated Market Share Percentage |
| Trupanion | 30% |
| Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company | 19% |
| Embrace Pet Insurance | 9% |
| Fetch by the Dodo | 8% |
| Pets Best Insurance | 2.4% |
| Hartville Group Inc. | 1.4% |
| MetLife Pet Insurance | 1.4% |
| Petsecure | 1.3% |
| Healthy Paws Pet Insurance | .73% |
| Pumpkin Pet Insurance | .48% |
How To Buy Pet Insurance Online In New York
New York pet owners can buy pet insurance online through different channels. However, the easy way to purchase a policy is using a platform like Insuranceopedia, where you can quickly compare multiple quotes within minutes.
While these platforms make it easy to identify the perfect coverage, it can be time-consuming without the appropriate information.
Below are several steps that will help you quickly move through the pet insurance buying process and find the best coverage for your furry companion:
- Step 1: Gather all important information ahead of time (EX: pet type, breed, age, medical history, and any documentation you have on the pet’s lineage)
- Step 2: Identify the amount of coverage and deductible you want for your pet
- Step 3: Compare at least three pet insurance quotes from different carriers
- Step 4: Purchase your policy and reach out to your vet to let them know about your new coverage
New York Pet Insurance Laws To Know
Currently, New York has no pet insurance laws that force owners to purchase a health insurance policy for their pets. However, several animal laws offer protection to pets and their owners.
For example, in the past, insurance carriers that offered homeowners’ insurance could deny applications and raise premiums based on having a specific dog breed in the house. However, after a recent wave of animal laws, insurance providers can no longer refuse coverage or cancel a policy based on a pet’s breed.
Information About New York
New York is one of the biggest cultural and economic hubs of the United States. The region is well-known for its fashion, arts, and culture. The state also has some of the most recognizable landmarks in the world, including the Statue of Liberty, Broadway, and Time Square.
While many people associate the city with icon locations like Wall Street, New York also has an incredible landscape. Visitors who want time away from the big cities can visit the Adirondack Mountains or spend time on the picturesque Finger Lakes.
Pet Insurance Discounts In New York
Pets are wonderful parts of our families, but the costs associated with properly caring for them can be high. One way to help make pet health care more affordable is through carrier-provided discounts. The following is a list of pet insurance discounts you should ask about before purchasing a policy:
- Employer-sponsored discounts
- Multi-pet discount
- Employee union discounts
- Wholesale and special interest clubs discounts
- Multi-policy discount
- Active and retired military discounts
- Senior discounts
- Online policy discounts
- Animal care employee discounts
- Special service animal discounts
FAQs
Can I get pet insurance if my pet has a pre-existing condition?
Yes, you can still get pet insurance for your dog or cat, even if they have a pre-existing condition. While the policy might not cover the condition, future claims for illnesses or injuries would likely be insured.
Can I get pet insurance after a diagnosis?
Even though you can purchase a pet insurance policy for your furry friend after a diagnosis, it most likely won’t cover any pre-existing conditions.
Are pre-existing conditions covered in New York?
Pet insurance companies in New York likely won’t cover any type of incurable pre-existing condition such as arthritis, cancer, or diabetes. However, if a pet develops one of these conditions after the insurance policy is in effect, it’s likely included in the plan.
What is the average cost of pet insurance in New York?
Similar to other states, cat owners pay less for pet insurance in New York than dog owners. On average, a cat health insurance plan costs $30.51 per month, while a dog insurance plan costs about $34.18.
