Australia is home to millions of beloved pets — from playful puppies and cuddly kittens to senior dogs and cats needing extra care. As veterinary costs continue to rise, pet insurance in Australia is becoming an increasingly popular way to protect both your pet and your wallet.
In this guide, we’ll explain how pet insurance works, what it covers, how much it costs, and how to choose the best policy for your furry friend in 2025.
Why Pet Insurance Is Important in Australia
Vet bills can quickly skyrocket in Australia. A routine vet visit may only cost around $60, but if your pet suffers an accident or illness, you could be facing thousands in emergency treatment or surgery.
Unlike humans, pets aren’t covered by Medicare — so every test, treatment, and medication is paid out-of-pocket. That’s where pet insurance steps in: by covering a portion of eligible vet expenses, it provides peace of mind when your pet needs care the most.
Types of Pet Insurance in Australia
Most Australian pet insurance providers offer three core types of cover:
1. Accident-Only Pet Insurance
This basic plan covers injuries caused by accidents — such as snake bites, broken bones, or road incidents. However, it won’t cover illnesses like cancer or infections.
✅ Best for young, healthy pets or budget-conscious owners.
💸 Cost: from $20–$40/month
2. Accident and Illness Cover
This mid-tier plan covers both injuries and a wide range of illnesses including diabetes, cancer, skin conditions, and arthritis. It’s the most common type of cover in Australia.
✅ Ideal for most dogs and cats with moderate health risks.
💸 Cost: from $40–$70/month
3. Comprehensive Pet Insurance (with Routine Care)
The most extensive plan includes accident and illness cover plus optional extras like vaccinations, dental care, and parasite prevention.
✅ Great for peace of mind and regular preventative care.
💸 Cost: from $60–$100+/month
What Does Pet Insurance Cover?
Depending on the plan, pet insurance in Australia may cover:
- Emergency vet visits
- Surgery and hospitalisation
- Cancer treatments
- Medications and prescriptions
- Diagnostic tests (bloodwork, X-rays, MRIs)
- Specialist care (e.g., dermatologists, oncologists)
- Hereditary and congenital conditions (with some limitations)
Some higher-tier policies may also include:
- Vaccinations
- Microchipping
- Desexing
- Dental cleaning
- Alternative therapies (acupuncture, hydrotherapy)
What’s Not Covered by Pet Insurance?
Most Australian pet insurance policies have exclusions. Common exclusions include:
- Pre-existing conditions
- Elective or cosmetic procedures
- Pregnancy or breeding costs
- Routine care (unless added as an extra)
- Grooming or food costs
📝 Always read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) carefully to understand what’s excluded.
How Much Does Pet Insurance Cost in Australia?
Pet insurance premiums depend on several factors:
| Factor | Impact on Price |
|---|---|
| Pet type | Dogs usually cost more than cats |
| Breed | Some breeds have higher health risks |
| Age | Older pets = higher premiums |
| Location | Vets in cities may charge more |
| Coverage level | More comprehensive = higher cost |
💰 Average Monthly Costs:
- Dogs: $50–$100/month
- Cats: $30–$60/month
- Basic cover: from $20/month
- Comprehensive: from $60/month
Top Pet Insurance Providers in Australia (2025)
Here are some of the most trusted pet insurers in Australia:
| Provider | Key Features |
|---|---|
| RSPCA Pet Insurance | Supports animal welfare, broad cover |
| Petplan | High benefit limits, good for older pets |
| Everyday Pet Insurance | Affordable and flexible plans |
| Knose | No sub-limits, simple policies |
| Bow Wow Meow | Lifetime cover, routine care optional |
| Coles & Medibank | Bundle discounts available |
Compare policies and request quotes from multiple providers before deciding.
Key Things to Consider Before Choosing Pet Insurance
When shopping for the best pet insurance in Australia, consider these key factors:
1. Waiting Periods
Most policies have a 30-day wait for illnesses and up to 6 months for dental or cruciate ligament conditions.
2. Annual Benefit Limits
Some policies cap annual claims (e.g. $10,000), while others offer unlimited cover.
3. Reimbursement Rate
Choose from 70%, 80%, or 90% back on eligible vet bills — higher cover often means higher premiums.
4. Sub-limits
Certain treatments may have separate caps even if your annual limit isn’t reached.
5. Co-Payment or Excess
Some policies have a per-claim excess or require you to co-pay a percentage of the bill.
6. Discounts
Look out for discounts on Pet Insurance policies with providers. Everyday Insurance often have a Everyday Pet Insurance promo code which gives you bonus Everyday Reward points with your policy.
Is Pet Insurance Worth It?
Whether pet insurance is “worth it” depends on your situation:
✔ Yes, if:
- You want peace of mind for emergencies
- You have a breed prone to health issues
- You can’t afford large vet bills out-of-pocket
✖ Maybe not, if:
- You prefer self-insuring with a savings account
- Your pet is already older with known conditions
A $60/month policy may seem steep — until you’re hit with a $4,000 surgery bill. The right cover can be a lifesaver.
Choosing the Right Pet Insurance in 2025
Pet insurance in Australia offers valuable protection for dog and cat owners, especially as vet bills rise. By understanding the types of cover, exclusions, and average costs, you can make an informed decision that suits both your pet’s needs and your budget.
Compare quotes, read the PDS, and review real customer feedback before committing to a policy.