What I Actually Pay For Different Pets
I've had insurance for three different pets over the years. The prices vary way more than I expected.
My dog costs almost three times what my cat costs. Same company, similar coverage. Makes you think twice about getting another big dog.
Dog Insurance Costs Hit Different
My Golden Retriever costs me $78 a month. I thought that was high until I met someone paying $120 for their French Bulldog.
The insurance agent told me it's because of breed problems. Hip issues, breathing problems, whatever. I guess they just know some dogs are money pits.
But here's the thing. My neighbor's mutt costs $35 a month for the same coverage. Sometimes it pays to not go purebred.
Cat Insurance Is Cheaper But Weird
My cat costs $28 a month. Sounds reasonable, right?
But then they told me indoor cats get discounts. Apparently outdoor cats are more likely to get into fights or hit by cars. Fair enough, I guess.
Still, when my indoor cat needed surgery for a blocked intestine from eating string, the bill was massive. Indoor doesn't mean accident-proof.
Exotic Pet Insurance Pricing Makes No Sense
My friend has a parrot and pays $18 a month. Seems cheap until you realize there are maybe three vets in our whole city who treat birds.
Emergency vet visit for a bird? $400 minimum. For stuff that would cost $50 for a dog.
Turns out exotic pet insurance is cheap because most people don't bother getting it. But when you need it, you really need it.
The Hidden Costs Nobody Mentions
The monthly premium is just the start. There's other stuff that adds up.
I learned this the expensive way, obviously.
Age Increases Are Brutal
My dog was $45 a month when I got him as a puppy. Now he's 8 and it's $78. Same coverage.
They don't tell you up front that costs go up every year. It's in the fine print somewhere, probably.
The worst part? You're kind of stuck. Switching to a new company means all his current conditions become pre-existing. So you just pay whatever they ask.
Breed Matters More Than You Think
I got a quote for a Great Dane once. Just curious, you know?
$150 a month. For a puppy.
Apparently some breeds are basically uninsurable unless you're rich. Hip problems, bloat, short lifespans. The insurance companies have it all figured out.
Makes you wonder if mixed breeds are smarter from a wallet perspective.
Deductible Games
Low deductible policies cost way more monthly. High deductible is cheaper until you actually need it.
I've got a $500 deductible now. Seems reasonable for bigger problems, but every little vet visit I pay full price.
My cat's dental cleaning was $400. Didn't even hit my deductible. Felt kind of pointless having insurance for that.