Pet healthcare is expensive β especially dental surgeries and emergency care. A well-rounded pet insurance policy should include accident, illness, emergency treatment, and dental procedures like extractions, gum disease, and injuries.
β Dental & Emergency Coverage Matters.
π¦· Dental Health Is Critical
Dental disease affects 80% of dogs and cats by age 3.
Dental issues can lead to kidney, liver, and heart problems if untreated.
Dental cleanings cost $300β$1,000, and extractions/surgeries can exceed $2,500+.
π Emergencies Are Unpredictable
Accidents (e.g., car hits, fractures) or illnesses (like bloat or seizures) often require:
24/7 emergency clinic
Hospitalization
Surgery
IV fluids, imaging, or diagnostics
Emergency vet visits range from $800 to $5,000, depending on severity.
Good for mixed needs; add wellness plan for cleanings
Healthy Paws
β No dental illness
β
β
Great emergency-only coverage but no dental disease coverage
Pumpkin
β Covers tooth extractions, abscesses, decay
β
β
High annual limits; wellness add-on for dental cleanings
Spot Pet Insurance
β Covers dental illnesses & trauma
β
β
Fully customizable plans; clean UI and policy terms
π° Average Cost Breakdown (Monthly Premiums)
Pet Type
Basic Coverage
With Dental & Emergency Add-ons
Small Dog
$30β$45/month
$45β$70/month
Large Dog
$40β$65/month
$60β$90/month
Cat
$20β$35/month
$35β$55/month
Premiums vary based on:
Age and breed
Location (urban vs. rural)
Plan deductible and annual max
π§ How to Choose the Best Policy
β Step-by-Step Checklist
Confirm Dental Coverage β Check for gum disease, broken teeth, extractions, anesthesia β Prefer policies that include illness + injury, not just accidents
Ensure Emergency Services β Must cover 24/7 ER visits, surgery, hospitalization β Look for reimbursement rates: 80β90% is ideal
Review Waiting Periods β³ Dental: Often 6 months (shorter with some companies) β³ Accidents: Usually 2β5 days β³ Illness: Around 14 days
Add Wellness Plan for Preventive Dental πͺ₯ Cleanings, exams, fluoride: Usually add-on packages
Check Annual Coverage Limit Aim for $10,000+ or unlimited, especially for older pets
Claim Process π± Choose a provider with app-based claims, fast reimbursements, and 24/7 support
π Sample Policy Comparison: Figo vs. Fetch
Feature
Figo
Fetch
Dental Illness
β (tooth decay, abscesses)
β (full oral care)
Dental Accidents
β
β
Routine Cleaning
β
β (add wellness rider)
Emergency Visits
β
β
Deductible Options
$100β$750
$250β$1,000
Annual Max
$5,000βUnlimited
Up to Unlimited
Reimbursement
70β100%
70β90%
π Real-Life Claim Example
πΆ Bella the Beagle
Age: 5
Condition: Broken molar + emergency surgery + overnight stay