Best Pet Insurance Plans With Shortest Waiting Periods
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Dr. Pippa Elliott BVMS, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr Pippa Elliott BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in companion animal practice. In 1987 she graduated from the University of Glasgow, with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She works at Blythwood Vets and the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA). Pippa is an advocate of Fear-Free Practice, an animal addict, and a veterinary writer. She is also w...
Veterinarian
UPDATED: Mar 25, 2024
Pet Insurance U receives compensation from the third parties included on this site. This includes payment for clicks from our site to insurance providers’ sites and quote requests generated. Our rankings and reviews are not affected by payments from the insurance companies. The compensation we receive allows the site to be free and regularly updated. Our goal is to review every pet insurance provider, but not all companies are listed on the site.
And many of the companies we review do not pay us anything. We simply rate, compare and review their plan because we feel it will be valuable to you. Our reviews are guaranteed to be unbiased, professional and advertising compensation does not influence rankings.
We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about pet insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything pet insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by pet insurance experts.
UPDATED: Mar 25, 2024
Pet Insurance U receives compensation from the third parties included on this site. This includes payment for clicks from our site to insurance providers’ sites and quote requests generated. Our rankings and reviews are not affected by payments from the insurance companies. The compensation we receive allows the site to be free and regularly updated. Our goal is to review every pet insurance provider, but not all companies are listed on the site.
And many of the companies we review do not pay us anything. We simply rate, compare and review their plan because we feel it will be valuable to you. Our reviews are guaranteed to be unbiased, professional and advertising compensation does not influence rankings.
On This Page
When you sign up for pet insurance, there are many decisions to make. You want a solid company with good coverage, pricing, and even reimbursement choices.
And once you make a decision, you might assume coverage will start the next day, but that never happens. There is typically a 30-day waiting period before coverage begins.
Table of Contents:
Need Pet Insurance?
FACT: Pet insurance pays up to 90% of vet bills when your pet is sick or injured!
First, The Waiting Period Defined
Waiting periods in a pet insurance policy are usually 14 to 30 days before your insurance starts.
It’s beneficial for you so you can make sure that you want to stay with the company and can bow out at any time.
The pet insurance company, on the other hand, wants to be certain that your dog or cat doesn’t have a condition, ailment or sickness that wasn’t disclosed.
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Why Have A Waiting Period?
Waiting periods for pet insurance enrollment is a way for the providers to assess whether any new cat or dog that is enrolled is not injured or sick.
Any pet that has a condition, called pre-existing, needs to be accounted for up front by the enrollee.
While in one way this seems like the companies are being super strict if everyone enrolled unhealthy pets then the cost of pet insurance would rise even more.
And not only would your rates go up, but this, of course, is fraudulent. It really is similar to medical or car insurance where you need to disclose all your history before signing up.
Related: 10 Things You Must Know Before You Buy Pet Insurance
Best Pet Insurance Providers With Short Waiting Periods
To get you started, we have compiled a list of 8 top pet insurance providers that have short waiting periods:
Pet First
When enrolling in Pet First, the waiting time frame for accidents is immediate and illness is covered after 14 days.
Hip Dysplasia is covered within 14 days which is very fast!
Coverage for congenital/hereditary conditions starts 12 months after enrollment.
Waiting Periods Are The Following:
- Accidents: 0
- Illness: 14 Days
- Hip Dysplasia: 14 Days
- Cruciate Ligaments: 12 Months
You can find out a lot more about Pet First in our full review!
Figo
Figo’s typical waiting period is 5 days for accidents and 14 days for any illness
Figo is one of the few that will actually waive the defined waiting periods if your pet has a vet exam 28 hours prior to enrolling or if you sign up with either the Humane Society or one of their Veterinary Shelters or Partner affiliates.
And the usual 6-month waiting period specifically for cruciate ligaments will be waived if you have a vet exam within the first month of enrolling and the vet determines your dog doesn’t have any pre-existing conditions that could relate to the patella or cruciate ligaments.
Most pre-existing issues or conditions might even be waived after a year if the conditions have been cured for at least that time.
Waiting Periods Are The Following:
- Accidents: 5 Days
- Illness: 14 Days
- Cruciate Ligament Issues: 6 Months
You can find out a lot more about Figo’s in our full review!
Healthy Paws
Healthy Paws has a fifteenday waiting period for illness and accidents after enrolling.
Hip dysplasia is covered in all of their plans with a 12 month waiting period for pets under six year old.
Waiting Periods Are The Following:
- Accidents: 15 Days
- Illness: 15 Days
- Cruciate Ligaments: 6 Months
- Hip Dysplasia: 12 Months
You can find out a lot more about Healthy Paws in our full review.
Read more: Healthy Paws vs. Figo Pet Insurance Plans
Embrace
When signing up with Embrace, there is a typical 6 month waiting period for patella issues but can be reduced to 14 days if cleared by a vet.
Waiting Periods Are The Following:
- Accidents: 2 Days in some states up to 14 days in NH, SC, VT, WV
- Illness: 14 Days
- Cruciate Ligaments: 6 Months but brought down to 14 days with a vet visit
You can find out a lot more about Embrace in our full review.
Pet Premium
When enrolling in Pet Premium, you have immediate coverage for accidents and 14 days for illness and cruciate ligament issues.
If your pet’s ligament issues are pre-existing and have been cured for 6 months, Pet Premium will than cover them.
Waiting Periods Are The Following:
- Accidents: 0 or immediately after enrolling
- Illness: 14 days
- Cruciate Ligaments: 14 days
You can find a lot more about Pet Premium in our full review.
Pets Best
When enrolling in Pets Best, illness coverage begins after 14 days and accidents, a quick 3 days.
Congenital and hereditary conditions are usually covered within 12 months.
Waiting Periods Are The Following:
- Illness: 14 Days
- Accidents: 3 Days
- Cruciate Ligaments: 6 Months
After the specific waiting periods are met, there is no interruption in their policy coverage.
You can find out a lot more about Pets Best in our full review.
Petplan
Petplan has the standard waiting lists among its competition with 15 days for illness and 5 days for accidents.
Waiting Periods Are The Following:
- Illness: 15 Days
- Accidents: 5 Days
- Cruciate Ligaments: 6 Months
You can find out a lot more about Petplan in our full review.
Nationwide
When enrolling in Nationwide, the waiting periods are typical and after 14 days.
Wellness plans however start after 24 hours.
And with Nationwide, you can enroll in just a wellness plan that isn’t added on to any of the pet insurance policies i.e. it’s a stand-alone policy.
Waiting Periods Are The Following:
- Illness: 14 Days
- Accidents: 14 Days
- Cruciate Ligaments: 14 Days
Nationwide’s Major Medical plan, an accident only plan, will only cover cruciate ligament issues after 12 months.
You can find out a lot more about Nationwide in our full review.
Can You Be Covered Immediately By Any Pet Insurance Plan?
Unfortunately, immediate coverage is not an option with any pet insurance company.
Even if your dog or cat is just a couple months old, there is always a wait.
If your puppy already has a congenital issue when born, a pet insurance company will not cover it.
This is why it’s always best to insure your pet when they are young.
The whole pet insurance model is to have coverage for accidents or illnesses that might happen in the future, and for you to pay now to avoid big bills later.
Each pet insurance provider has different waiting periods for your pets and even for different sicknesses and conditions.
The only immediate coverage is wellness pet insurance which is added onto to an existing policy.
In other words, you already passed the first 30 days of waiting, so the wellness plan can start the next day after enrollment.
Real Cost Savings from PetFirst Clients
Luna
PetFirst saved his parents
$6,712
A happy energetic Luna one morning couldn’t hold her food down. After months of multiple costly vet visits to specialists and an endoscopy, the problem was discovered and fixed. Luna put 22 pounds back on in no time and her parents were grateful for having PetFirst by their side to pay the bills.
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What Conditions Are Considered Pre-Existing?
A pre-existing condition is any condition, sickness or injury that your cat or dog has developed before your pet insurance begins.
For example, if your dog suffers from a cruciate ligament issue or even allergies, the pet insurance company would not cover your dog for those particular issues.
You can get coverage for any future condition that the same dog develops.
In fact, patella and hip issues that haven’t yet occurred still have a six month to one-year waiting list to enroll.
What Is The Typical Waiting Period?
The waiting periods not only vary among pet insurance providers but also by state, the health of your dog or cat and their condition.
The waiting periods will be explained to you by the pet insurance provider upon enrollment.
Typical Time Frames For Different Issues:
- Illness: 14 to 30 days
- Accidents: 0 to 15 days
- Orthopedic Condition: 14 days (rarely) to 12 months
If you sign up for a policy and your pet gets hurt or sick within 30 days, your pet won’t be covered for that condition. So keep them healthy during the waiting period!
Get Advice From Your Vet Before Enrolling In Any Pet Insurance Policy
Before enrolling in a new pet insurance policy, know how it works, and either speak to your vet or make an appointment.
Your vet is the best resource to determine if you are getting the right coverage for your pet.
And your vet can advise you on potential hereditary conditions that might occur with your pet.
Most companies will accept any vet of your choice, but it’s always a good idea to check with your veterinarian’s office.
In fact, most pet insurance companies will recommend a vet visit if not upon enrollment than within the first 30 days.
This can also be beneficial to you so you can be sure that your pet is fully covered.
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In Conclusion
Now that you know about waiting periods, you can know what to look for in a new pet insurance provider and what is standard for the industry.
If you have any more questions about pet insurance, make sure to peruse our guide with not only reviews of the 10 top pet insurance companies, but gives you a lot more information on coverage!
Other articles you may find helpful:
Is Exotic Pet Insurance Necessary?
The Best Pet Insurance By State
Fun Facts, Dog FAQ, And Unsolicited Dog Advice
5 Training Commands to Save Your Dog’s Life
The Ultimate Guide to Safe Foods for Dogs
Pet insurance is similar to other insurances but does have some major differences as compared to your health insurance. Below you will find a definitive list of frequently asked pet insurance questions to help in your decision.
Types of Pet Insurance Coverage
Comprehensive Pet Insurance Explained
Insurance vs. Wellness Pet Insurance Plans
Is Pet Dental Insurance Worth the Extra Cost
Best Pet Insurance Plans with Shortest Waiting Periods
Pet Insurance Coverage Exclusions and Limits
Pet Insurance Benefit Limits Explained
How to Make a Claim on your Pet Insurance
Is my Pet too Old for Pet Insurance Coverage
Top Reasons to Purchase Pet Insurance
How much does Pet Insurance Cost
Pet Insurance for Multiple Pets
Pet Insurance that Covers Spaying and Neutering
Does Pet Insurance Cover Shots
Pet Insurance with Pre-Existing Conditions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the waiting period in pet insurance?
Waiting periods in pet insurance policies typically range from 14 to 30 days before coverage begins. During this time, the insurance provider assesses the pet’s health and ensures that there are no pre-existing conditions.
Why do pet insurance plans have waiting periods?
Waiting periods serve two purposes. They allow pet owners to assess if they want to continue with the chosen insurance provider and provide the insurance company time to confirm that enrolled pets are not already sick or injured. This helps prevent fraudulent claims and keeps insurance costs down
Are there pet insurance plans with short waiting periods?
Yes, some pet insurance providers offer shorter waiting periods. Here are examples of providers with relatively short waiting periods:
- Pet First: Immediate coverage for accidents, illness covered after 14 days.
- Figo: 5 days for accidents, 14 days for illness, and potential waivers for certain conditions.
- Healthy Paws: 15-day waiting period for illness and accidents.
- Embrace: 6-month waiting period for patella issues (can be reduced to 14 days with vet clearance).
- Pet Premium: Immediate coverage for accidents, 14 days for illness and cruciate ligament issues.
- Pets Best: 3 days for accidents, 14 days for illness.
- Petplan: 5 days for accidents, 15 days for illness.
- Nationwide: 14 days waiting period.
Can pets be covered immediately by any pet insurance plan
Unfortunately, immediate coverage is not an option with any pet insurance company. There is always a waiting period, even for young pets.
What conditions are considered pre-existing in pet insurance?
A pre-existing condition in pet insurance refers to any health condition, sickness, or injury that a pet has developed before the insurance coverage begins. Conditions such as cruciate ligament issues or allergies that exist before enrollment are typically considered pre-existing.
How long is the typical waiting period for pet insurance?
Waiting periods vary among pet insurance providers, states, and the health condition of the pet. The waiting period details are explained by the insurance provider upon enrollment.
How can pet owners make the most of their pet insurance?
Before enrolling in pet insurance, it’s advisable to consult with a veterinarian. Vets can provide guidance on coverage needs, potential hereditary conditions, and ensure that the chosen policy aligns with the pet’s health requirements.
Is immediate coverage available for any pet insurance plan?
Immediate coverage is not available for any pet insurance plan. The entire pet insurance model is designed to provide coverage for future accidents or illnesses, and there is always a waiting period.
What should pet owners know about pre-existing conditions?
Pet owners should understand that pre-existing conditions are not covered by pet insurance. It’s essential to enroll pets when they are young to avoid exclusions for conditions that may have developed before coverage begins.
How much does pet insurance cost?
The cost of pet insurance varies depending on factors such as the pet’s breed, age, location, and the coverage chosen. It’s recommended to compare quotes from different providers to find the most suitable and affordable plan.
Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap pet insurance rates.
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Dr. Pippa Elliott BVMS, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr Pippa Elliott BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in companion animal practice. In 1987 she graduated from the University of Glasgow, with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She works at Blythwood Vets and the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA). Pippa is an advocate of Fear-Free Practice, an animal addict, and a veterinary writer. She is also w...
Veterinarian
We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about pet insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything pet insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by pet insurance experts.