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Best Pet Insurance for Cats with Pre-Existing Conditions in the USA (2025) |
As a cat owner, it's heartbreaking to hear that your beloved feline has a medical condition. It’s even more frustrating to discover that most pet insurance policies won’t cover it. But there's good news—several companies in the USA now offer coverage options for cats with pre-existing conditions, especially curable ones. In this comprehensive 2025 guide, we’ll walk you through the top insurers, their policies, what to watch for, and how to find a plan that still works for your cat’s needs.
Understanding Pre-Existing Conditions in Cats
A pre-existing condition is any illness or injury your cat had before your insurance policy became active. These can range from mild infections to serious chronic issues.
Common Pre-Existing Conditions in Cats:
Kidney disease
Hyperthyroidism
Diabetes
Dental disease
Urinary tract infections
Respiratory infections
Food or environmental allergies
Most insurers do not cover incurable or chronic conditions that show symptoms before enrollment. However, many will consider curable conditions eligible for coverage after a symptom-free waiting period.
Types of Coverage Available
Condition Type | Example Conditions | Insurance Coverage Possibility |
---|---|---|
Curable | Respiratory infections, UTIs | Often covered after 180 days |
Incurable | Diabetes, cancer | Usually excluded |
Dental | Gum disease, broken teeth | Covered with add-ons |
Behavioral | Anxiety, aggression | Covered by some providers |
Top 5 Cat Insurance Companies That Help with Pre-Existing Conditions
1. Embrace Pet Insurance
Covers: Curable conditions after 12 months symptom-free.
Excludes: Chronic conditions like kidney disease.
Features: Customizable plans, routine care add-ons.
Monthly Premium: ~$20–$55
Best For: Cats with minor past issues.
2. Spot Pet Insurance
Covers: Curable conditions after 180 days without symptoms.
Offers: Accident-only or full coverage, wellness plans.
Monthly Premium: ~$18–$45
Best For: Owners looking for flexible deductibles and low premiums.
3. ASPCA Pet Health Insurance
Covers: Some curable conditions.
Excludes: Orthopedic and hereditary issues if pre-existing.
Monthly Premium: ~$22–$50
Best For: Families with multiple cats (multi-pet discount).
4. Figo Pet Insurance
Covers: Conditions marked cured or inactive in records.
Tech Benefits: 24/7 vet chat, mobile claims.
Monthly Premium: ~$25–$60
Best For: Tech-savvy owners needing fast access and modern UI.
5. Fetch by The Dodo
Covers: Some pre-existing conditions, evaluated case-by-case.
Extras: Dental illness, holistic therapy, behavioral therapy.
Monthly Premium: ~$30–$70
Best For: Cat owners looking for broader coverage and support.
Comparison Table
Company | Curable Conditions Covered | Waiting Period | Unique Features | Avg. Monthly Cost |
Embrace | Yes, after 12 months | 14 days | Routine care add-on | $20–$55 |
Spot | Yes, after 180 days | 14 days | Highly customizable | $18–$45 |
ASPCA | Yes (some) | 14 days | Multi-pet discounts | $22–$50 |
Figo | Some, if cured | 1–14 days | Cloud portal, 24/7 vet | $25–$60 |
Fetch by Dodo | Case-by-case basis | 15 days | Holistic & behavioral care | $30–$70 |
Real Cat Owner Testimonials
Laura, NY:
“My cat had a respiratory issue when I first adopted her. Embrace helped cover expenses after she was healthy for a year. It was a lifesaver.”
Tim, FL:
“Spot gave me peace of mind. While they didn’t cover my cat’s kidney condition, they helped with other treatments and checkups.”
Tips for Getting the Best Policy for Your Cat
Act Early: Insure your cat before any health issues appear.
Know What Counts as Curable: Read each insurer’s definition of pre-existing conditions.
Keep Records: Detailed vet history can help argue that a condition is cured.
Use Wellness Add-ons: These often include dental care, flea meds, and preventive checkups.
Ask Questions: Call insurers to ask directly about your cat’s specific situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get pet insurance if my cat is already sick?
Yes, but most policies will not cover the existing illness. However, future conditions will be covered.
Are pre-existing conditions ever fully covered?
Only if deemed curable and your cat shows no symptoms for the required period (usually 6-12 months).
Is dental disease considered a pre-existing condition?
It can be, especially if symptoms or treatments are recorded before policy start. But many plans cover dental issues with add-ons.
Can I switch providers and get a condition covered?
Usually not—most providers require medical history, and pre-existing exclusions carry over.
Why You Should Still Insure Your Cat
Even if your cat has a pre-existing condition, insurance can still protect you from:
Accidental injuries (falls, bites, poisoning)
New illnesses (cancers, infections)
Emergency surgeries
Chronic care for unrelated conditions
A single emergency vet visit in the U.S. can cost $1,000–$3,000. Insurance might not cover everything, but it can save you thousands in future bills.
Conclusion
Pet insurance for cats with pre-existing conditions isn’t a lost cause. While chronic illnesses may not be eligible for reimbursement, many providers in 2025 now offer coverage for curable issues, emergency care, and wellness needs. Embrace, Spot, and Figo lead the way with flexible, affordable plans designed to protect your feline without breaking the bank.
Take the time to compare, understand the fine print, and act early. Your cat’s health—and your wallet—will thank you.