Switching Pet Insurance: Steps, Risks, and What to Know
Licensed Insurance Producer - Pawlicy Advisor
"Is it time to change my pet insurance?" This is a question many pet owners eventually ask.
Your premiums may have risen, your current plan might not cover your pet’s breed-specific health risks, or you've found better options with more coverage or lower rates. The good news is that you can switch providers at any time, but it may mean losing coverage for pre-existing conditions or resetting your waiting period. (This is why it’s so important to get it right the first time.)
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Key Takeaways
- Check your current policy for exclusions, terms, and coverage gaps before switching providers.
- Evaluate different plans with a free tool like Pawlicy Advisor and, if possible, obtain pre-approval to confirm that the coverage meets your pet’s specific needs.
- Apply for the new plan before canceling the old one to avoid gaps in coverage.
- Time the switch carefully to avoid coverage gaps and ensure the new policy starts immediately after the old one ends.
- Notify both insurers and keep a record of your cancellation and the new policy details.
In this guide, we’ll explain who should and shouldn’t switch, the potential risks to watch out for, and how to make the transition without losing coverage.
Should You Switch Pet Insurance?
If you're considering switching to a new pet insurance carrier, it's essential to evaluate the pros and cons of your situation, because while some people are good candidates for switching to get a better deal or better coverage, many people are not good candidates for switching (as they’ll likely face coverage restrictions on pre-existing conditions).
Here are signs it might be time to explore other options.
You're Paying Too Much for Too Little
Paying a high premium but feeling like your pet’s insurance coverage isn’t up to par is a major red flag. If you’ve noticed your premiums increasing without seeing any real improvement in coverage, it might be time to shop around.
Many insurers offer competitive rates that provide better value for your money while still offering the coverage your pet needs.
NOTE: It’s critical to consider how premiums are expected to increase as your pet ages. The plan that is most affordable today is not always the most affordable long-term. Use Pawlicy Advisor to compare Lifetime Value scores across top pet insurance plans side–by-side.
Your Current Coverage Doesn’t Match Your Pet’s Needs
It’s important to have coverage that reimburses for your pet’s unique needs – like certain health issues their breed is more at risk of. This is why it’s so important to enroll in the right coverage the first time.
However, if you realize your coverage is not as comprehensive as you need you may consider switching to a plan that’s a better fit for your pet’s health risks.
NOTE: If any health issues have already arisen, or were previously diagnosed, they will likely not be covered by a new insurer as most plan will not cover pre-existing conditions.
If you pet is healthy, but you want to make sure you have the right coverage, Pawlicy Advisor provides personalized Coverage Scores based on your pet’s breed, age, and more. See your pet insurance matches today.
You Want Faster Claims and Better Support
No one likes to wait weeks for claims or deal with poor customer service. If your insurer isn’t meeting your expectations, it may be time to switch.
Look for a provider that offers faster claims processing, more direct payment options to your vet, and a mobile app that makes managing your policy simple and efficient. Better service can make all the difference when it comes to managing your pet’s care.
You’ve Moved or Changed Vets
Did your move make your current insurance plan obsolete? Some insurers don't cover all 50 states. Choosing a provider with nationwide coverage can save you from future issues.
NOTE: All insurance companies that offer plans through Pawlicy Advisor's website offer coverages at any licensed verterinarian in the United States.
You Prefer Simpler, More Transparent Policies
Many pet insurance policies are difficult to navigate, with exclusions hidden in fine print and unclear reimbursement rules.
If your current plan is leaving you in the dark, a simpler and more transparent policy could be the solution. Look for a provider with clear terms and an easy claims process.
You Need Add-Ons or Customization Your Current Plan Doesn’t Offer
As pets have different health needs, you may find yourself wanting additional coverage options that your current plan doesn’t provide.
Whether it’s wellness add-ons, 24/7 access to a vet helpline, or modular options for more tailored care, some insurers offer plans that allow you to customize your coverage.
NOTE: Wellness plans and televet services can be purchased separately. If your pet doesn’t have any pre-existing conditions and there’s a better option to get a new policy with these features bundled, you should consider it. However, if your pet has had pre-existing incidents under your current coverage, it may be safer to simply purchase a wellness plan or televet service a la carte.
What to Consider Before Switching Pet Insurance
Switching your pet insurance carrier isn’t always as straightforward as it sounds. There are risks, hidden costs, and timing issues you should be aware of before making a change.
Consider the following before switching:
Pre-Existing Conditions Are Likely Excluded
When you switch providers, any health condition your pet has at enrollment may not be covered. These are considered pre-existing conditions, and most insurers do not cover them, including issues such as allergies, arthritis, or cancer.
Some insurers may cover "curable" conditions, like ear infections in dogs, after a symptom-free waiting period. Before switching, check if the new provider offers pet insurance for pre-existing conditions.
Waiting Periods Can Reset
One major drawback of switching pet insurance is the reset of waiting periods. When you switch providers, your new policy may not cover illnesses or accidents until the waiting period ends.
Accidents typically have a shorter waiting period, while illnesses may take 14 days or more. If your pet is undergoing treatment, wait until the new policy’s waiting period has ended before canceling the old plan to avoid coverage gaps. Although you may need to pay for both plans temporarily.
You Will Lose Claim History and Progress Toward Caps
Switching to a new insurer will mean losing the progress you’ve made toward your current policy’s deductible or reimbursement caps. For example, if you have already met a large portion of your deductible, a switch will reset that, and you’d have to pay out-of-pocket for vet visits until the new deductible is met.
Additionally, if you've been reimbursed for certain treatments that count toward your annual reimbursement cap, that progress will also reset with your new policy and lead to more out-of-pocket costs in the short term.
Switching Too Soon Could Disrupt Ongoing Treatment
Is your pet undergoing treatment for a chronic condition, or is it currently part of a care plan? Switching insurers too soon can disrupt that treatment. Changing providers mid-treatment could cause delays or gaps in care, especially if your pet is receiving cancer treatment or recovering from surgery.
You should always confirm that your new insurer will continue to cover ongoing treatments before making the switch. To avoid coverage issues, it might be necessary to wait until your pet’s treatment is fully completed before switching.
Policy Definitions Aren’t Always Equal
Definitions of terms like "hereditary" and "bilateral" vary among insurers, so conditions such as hip dysplasia may be excluded or covered based on the specific policy.
Before you switch, make sure the new provider’s definitions align with your pet’s needs, especially if you’re looking for pet insurance for senior pets or have breed-specific concerns. This ensures the new policy covers your pet’s conditions and helps avoid surprises.
Timing Matters — Align With Your Renewal Window
Knowing when to switch will save you from complications. Consider applying for a new plan if your current policy is nearing its renewal date.
Aligning the start of your new plan with the renewal of your current policy will also avoid paying for two insurance plans at once or paying extra for a period of overlapping coverage.
Compare Top Pet Insurance Companies Side-by-Side
Use Pawlicy Advisor to get personalized quotes from leading brands and see how each plan stacks up — instantly.
100% free to use. No fees. No commitment.
How to Switch Pet Insurance Plans Smoothly (Step by Step)
Changing pet insurance plans can go smoothly if you follow the right steps. Here’s how to navigate the process without losing coverage:
Step 1 – Review Your Current Plan’s Terms and Exclusions
Review your current policy's terms, exclusions, and coverage limits to identify any gaps, such as pre-existing conditions, breed-specific issues, or age limits, that need to be addressed by the new provider.
Step 2 – Compare Plans and Get Pre-Approval Where Possible
Compare pet insurance options with Pawlicy Advisor’s free comparison tool and consider coverage, premiums, deductibles, and the company's reputation. Find insurers that offer pre-approval to confirm coverage for any health conditions before switching.
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Step 3 – Apply for the New Plan Before Canceling the Old One
Apply for your new plan while your existing coverage is still active. Only cancel your old policy once the new coverage is active to avoid interruptions in protection for your pet.
Step 4 – Avoid Coverage Gaps by Timing It Right
The new policy should start as soon as the old one expires. If there’s a waiting period, keep your current plan active until the new coverage takes effect.
Step 5 – Notify Both Insurers and Keep Records
Once your new policy is active, notify your old insurer of the cancellation and retain all relevant records, including proof of cancellation. Make sure both insurers have the correct coverage dates to avoid any confusion.
FAQ's
Can I switch pet insurance mid-policy?
Yes, you can switch pet insurance providers mid-policy, but you should consider the timing carefully to avoid gaps in coverage. Ensure your new policy takes effect before canceling your current one.
What happens to pre-existing conditions when I switch?
Pre-existing conditions are typically not covered by the new insurer, as they are excluded from most policies. Always check if your new provider will cover any pre-existing conditions that your pet has.
Is pet insurance transferable if I move states?
Pet insurance is usually transferable between states. Just alert your insurance carrier of your move and they will update your address on file. Some, but very few, pet insurance carriers may not offer plans in all states, in which case you may need to change carriers. If you are planning to move, ask your current insurance carrier if the plan can be transferred to your new address.
Will I pay more if I switch plans later in my pet’s life?
Premiums may increase as your pet ages or develops health issues. However, it’s still worth comparing plans to find one that offers the best coverage and value for your pet’s needs.
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Licensed Insurance Producer - Pawlicy Advisor
Kari Steere is a licensed P&C insurance agent in all 50 states and has focused entirely on pet insurance since 2019. As an animal lover with a rescued Terrier named Barry, when she's not helping pet owners find the perfect plan on Pawlicy Advisor, she runs a ranch in Oregon and rehabilitates any animals that come across her path.
