Get the Best Pet Insurance in Illinois in 2024

Sponsored by Figo Pet Insurance

If you’re a pet parent in Illinois, ensuring your furry friend gets the care they need is a top priority. One of the smartest ways to prepare for unexpected vet bills is by selecting a reliable pet insurance policy. But with so many options out there, it can be tricky to figure out which plan fits your pet’s unique needs and your budget.

In this guide, we’ll cover the key factors that affect pet insurance in the Prairie State, including coverage options, pricing, and regional health risks. By the time you’re done reading, you’ll be better equipped to choose a plan that gives your pet the best possible care, without breaking the bank.

Summary: Best Illinois Pet Insurance Ratings

AKC Pet Insurance

Best for pets with pre-existing conditions

Max Annual Coverage

Unlimited

Reimbursement Choices

70%, 80%, 90%

Deductible

$100-$1,000

ASPCA Pet Insurance

Best for wide-ranging coverage

Max Annual Coverage

Unlimited

Reimbursement Choices

70%, 80%, 90%

Deductible

$100-$500

Embrace

Best for flexible policy options

Max Annual Coverage

Unlimited

Reimbursement Choices

70%, 80%, 90%

Deductible

$100-$1,000

Felix

Best for cats

Max Annual Coverage

$15,000

Reimbursement Choices

70%, 80%, 90%

Deductible

$100-$500

Figo

Best for reimbursement options

Max Annual Coverage

Unlimited

Reimbursement Choices

70%, 80%, 90%

Deductible

$100-$750

Pets Best

Best for senior pets

Max Annual Coverage

Unlimited

Reimbursement Choices

70%, 80%, 90%

Deductible

$50-$1,000

Pumpkin

Best for puppies and kittens

Max Annual Coverage

Unlimited

Reimbursement Choices

90%

Deductible

$100-$1,000

Spot

Best for straightforward waiting periods

Max Annual Coverage

Unlimited

Reimbursement Choices

70%, 80%, 90%

Deductible

$100-$1,000

Comparison information is provided using publicly available information as of 9/23/2024 and is only meant to summarize program features, not a specific plan. Review the provider’s plan terms for more details. The description of the providers’ plans are not provided by that company. If you have questions about other plans, please contact an agent of that company. It is our intention to provide fair and accurate comparison information. We attempt to keep information up to date but it may change from time to time. If you are aware of any inaccuracies or changes in the information provided, let us know by emailing info@petplace.com.

How Much Does Pet Insurance Cost in Illinois?

According to our research, Illinois pet insurance costs an average of $45 per month. This gets you a plan with $5,000 in annual coverage, a $250 deductible, and an 80% reimbursement level. For unlimited annual coverage with the same deductible and reimbursement rate, it's $78 a month.

We calculated these figures by averaging the monthly costs from eight major pet insurance providers. To estimate typical expenses, we gathered quotes for a three-year-old, medium-sized, mixed-breed dog in two Illinois cities: Chicago, a major urban center, and Bloomington, an average-sized city for the state.

It's important to note that your own Illinois pet insurance cost will depend on factors such as:

• Annual limit, deductible, and reimbursement level. These are the three primary components that determine your monthly premium. The annual limit is the maximum amount the policy will pay out in a year. The deductible is the amount you pay out-of-pocket before the insurance starts to cover costs. The reimbursement level is the percentage of the covered costs the insurance pays after the deductible. Generally, the higher the annual limit and reimbursement level, the more expensive the policy will be.
• Breed and gender. Some breeds are more prone to certain health conditions than others, which can impact the cost of insurance. Additionally, some insurers may charge different rates based on the gender of your pet.
• Your location. Where you live can affect the cost of pet insurance. Urban areas tend to have higher premiums due to the higher cost of veterinary care in cities.
• Your pet’s age. Just like with human insurance, the younger your pet is when you enroll them in a policy, the lower the premium will be. As they age, premiums may increase.

Additionally, there are other factors that can affect the cost of pet insurance, such as pre-existing conditions, your pet’s lifestyle, and whether you choose to add on any optional coverage. That's why it's vital to compare Illinois pet insurance plans carefully and choose a policy that suits your budget and your pet's individual needs.

Cost of Pet Insurance for Dogs in Illinois

According to our research, the average cost of pet insurance for a medium-sized mixed breed dog in Illinois is $45 per month*. This is based on a policy with $5,000 of annual pet insurance coverage, a $250 deductible, and an 80% reimbursement level. A policy offering unlimited annual coverage, with a deductible of $250 and an 80% reimbursement rate, costs $78 monthly.

Cost of Pet Insurance in Illinois by Dog Breed

According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), the three most popular dog breeds of 2023 in the U.S. were the French Bulldog, Labrador Retriever, and Golden Retriever. Here are the monthly pet insurance rates you can expect to pay for these breeds in Illinois:

Cost of Pet Insurance for Cats in Illinois

Pet insurance for cats is significantly cheaper than dog insurance in Illinois. The average monthly cost for cat insurance in the state ranges from $20 to $60, depending on factors such as age, annual coverage, breed, deductible, plan type, and reimbursement amount**.

Cost of Pet Insurance in Illinois by Cat Breed

In 2023, the three most popular cat breeds in the U.S. were the Ragdoll, Maine Coon Cat, and Persian, according to the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA). Based on our analysis of Illinois pet insurance, here are the average monthly rates for these breeds:

Cost Comparison for Pet Insurance Companies in Illinois

Types of Pet Insurance Plans

Pet insurance companies offer policies that cover a wide range of issues, from accidents and illnesses to routine care. Here's an overview of the most common types of pet insurance plans:

Accident and Illness

Typically, this type of policy covers unexpected accidents and illnesses, such as broken bones, cancer, and infections. It generally includes diagnostic tests, x-rays, ultrasounds, exam fees, hospital stays, surgeries, and prescription medications.

Coverage may also extend to treatments like prosthetic devices, mobility aids, and, in some cases, alternative therapies such as acupuncture or chiropractic care. Coverage for behavioral issues and insurance for senior dogs and senior cats can vary between providers and might not always be included in the base plan, requiring add-ons or separate policies.

Accident Only

Accident-only pet insurance policies are typically the most affordable plans available, covering injuries from accidents like cuts, broken bones, and sprains. This includes vet exams, diagnostic testing (x-rays, MRIs, ultrasounds), hospitalization (surgery and treatment), medications, and rehabilitation.

Wellness and Routine Care

Wellness and routine care plans can help manage and offset the cost of preventive care to keep your pet healthy. These policies generally cover routine check-ups, vaccinations, dental cleanings, microchipping, deworming, spay/neuter surgeries, and flea and tick prevention. This type of coverage is often available as an optional add-on to an accident and illness policy.

Pre-Existing Conditions

Pet insurance providers traditionally do not cover pre-existing conditions, making this an essential factor for pet owners to consider when choosing a policy. A pre-existing condition is any health issue that your pet was diagnosed with or showed symptoms of before the start date of the insurance policy or during the waiting period.

However, some insurance companies distinguish between curable and incurable pre-existing conditions. For curable conditions, if your pet has been symptom-free and has not required treatment for a specific period – typically for 6 to 12 months before the policy start date – these conditions might then be eligible for coverage. In contrast, incurable conditions, such as chronic diseases or ongoing illnesses, are generally not covered at any point.

Review your sample policy from your provider for a full list of condition coverage and exclusions.

Reimbursement

Reimbursement rates dictate the percentage of the vet bill that will be paid back to you after you've met your deductible. Common reimbursement levels offered by pet insurance companies range from 70% to 90%. Keep in mind that higher reimbursement rates typically result in higher monthly premiums, so you'll need to find the right balance that works for your budget and needs.

Waiting periods are another vital component of pet insurance policies. They refer to the time between the start date of your policy and when coverage actually begins. Most pet insurance plans have a waiting period for both accidents and illnesses, which can range from a few days to several months.

Accidents usually have a shorter waiting period, often starting within 48 to 72 hours after the policy begins, while waiting periods for illnesses might last anywhere from 14 to 30 days or more. It's vital to note these periods because no claims can be made for accidents or illnesses that occur during the waiting period.

How to Find the Best Pet Insurance in Illinois

Picking the right pet insurance in Illinois is vital for protecting both your pet's health and your finances. The state's diverse environment, from Chicago's urban landscape to rural farmlands, presents various health risks for pets that should be considered when choosing a policy.

Pets in Illinois face a variety of environmental health challenges. One of these is leptospirosis, a bacterial disease often found in contaminated water. Ticks are another concern, especially in wooded areas and tall grasses, as they carry diseases like Lyme disease and Ehrlichiosis.

Additionally, encounters with dangerous wildlife such as coyotes and venomous snakes can pose serious threats to pets, particularly in suburban and rural areas.

Pets living near Lake Michigan or other waterways face additional risks, including harmful algal blooms and waterborne parasites, which can pose significant health threats.

Urban living in Illinois cities like Chicago comes with its own set of challenges for pets, including encounters with urban wildlife and exposure to air pollution. The state's weather also plays a role in pet health, with hot, humid summers and cold, snowy winters posing risks like heat stroke and hypothermia.

When looking at pet insurance plans in Illinois, aim for the most comprehensive coverage. A good policy should cover a wide range of health issues, including accidents, illnesses, and routine care. Compare different policies by looking at coverage limits, deductibles, and reimbursement rates. This will help you find a plan that fits both your pet's needs and your budget.

Here are some important features to keep in mind when selecting the best pet insurance plan in the Prairie State:

• 24/7 vet helpline. Access to a 24-hour veterinary helpline for immediate advice on emergency care or general health questions can be incredibly valuable, especially in a state like Illinois, which has its fair share of health risks for pets.
• Direct vet payments. Some insurance providers offer the option to pay your vet bills directly, so you don't have to pay out of pocket and wait for reimbursement.
• Wellness and routine care coverage. Choosing a policy that offers wellness and routine care coverage can help offset the costs of preventive care.
• Waiting periods. Consider the waiting periods for accidents and illnesses to ensure you understand when coverage will begin.
• Vet exam fees coverage. Veterinary costs in Illinois are often higher compared to other states, so having coverage for exam fees can result in considerable savings over time.
• Multi-pet discount. If you have multiple pets, look for providers that offer discounts for insuring more than one pet.

Illinois Pet Laws

Illinois, a state with busy cities and wide farmlands, has created comprehensive pet laws that serve its diverse communities. These rules aim to keep pets safe and owners responsible, whether you're in downtown Chicago or rural Springfield. Here's what Illinois pet owners need to know:

• Rabies vaccination. Illinois law requires all dogs over 4 months old to be vaccinated against rabies by a licensed veterinarian. The veterinarian must provide a certificate of inoculation to the owner, which serves as proof of vaccination.
• Animal cruelty. The state has strict laws against animal cruelty. It's illegal to beat, cruelly treat, torment, starve, overwork, or otherwise abuse any animal. This includes failing to provide adequate food, water, shelter, or veterinary care. Offenders can face misdemeanor charges, or felony charges for aggravated cruelty or torture. The law also allows for the seizure of mistreated animals and requires violators to undergo counseling.
• Vicious dog regulations. Illinois law has specific procedures for declaring a dog "vicious." If a dog is found to be vicious, the owner must pay a $100 public safety fine, have the dog spayed or neutered within 10 days, ensure it's microchipped, and keep it in a secure enclosure. Failure to comply can result in impoundment and a $500 fine. The law also allows for potential euthanasia of vicious dogs at a judge's discretion. These regulations aim to protect public safety while providing due process for dog owners.
• Assistance animals. The state protects the rights of individuals with disabilities who use guide dogs or other support animals. It's illegal to deny housing to a person with a disability because they have an assistance animal. The law also prohibits charging extra fees for these animals. This protection extends to various public accommodations and services.
• Impoundment. Illinois law provides for the impoundment of animals in certain circumstances. This includes animals found running at large, those suspected of having rabies, or those that have bitten someone. The law outlines procedures for notifying owners, providing care during impoundment, and the potential for adoption or humane disposal if unclaimed.

Chicago Pet Laws

Chicago, the bustling metropolis on the shores of Lake Michigan, has established a thorough set of pet laws to ensure animal welfare and public safety. Here are some important pet laws to remember in the Windy City:

• Licensing requirements. In Chicago, all dogs over four months old must be licensed. To obtain a license, pet owners must provide proof of current rabies vaccination. Licenses can be obtained through the City Clerk's office. The license tag must be securely attached to a collar or harness worn by the dog.
• Animal restraint. Chicago law requires that animals be restrained when off the owner's property. Dogs must be leashed and under control of a person capable of preventing the dog from threatening others. The leash must not exceed six feet in length. This law helps prevent incidents and ensures the safety of both pets and the public.
• Dangerous animal regulations. Chicago has specific procedures for declaring an animal dangerous. If an animal is found to be dangerous, the owner must comply with certain requirements, including muzzling the animal in public, posting warning signs on their property, and obtaining $100,000 in liability insurance. Failure to comply can result in impoundment of the animal and fines for the owner.
• Excessive animal noise. Chicago prohibits excessive animal noise that disturbs the peace. It's unlawful for any person to own, keep, have in their possession, or harbor any animal which makes any unreasonably loud or disturbing habitual noise. This law aims to maintain quality of life in residential areas.

Aurora Pet Laws

Aurora, the second-largest city in Illinois, has established a set of pet laws to ensure animal welfare and public safety. Here are some key laws to keep in mind when living in this vibrant city:

• Licensing requirements. Dog and cat owners must register their pets within 30 days of acquisition and display the license tag on the pet's collar. All fees support animal care operations.
• Pet limits. Aurora restricts the number of pets per household to a maximum of four domestic animals, with no more than two of any one species. Exceptions are made for households that were compliant before the new ordinance and for newborn animals, which can remain for up to three months. The director may impound animals exceeding these limits.
• Waste removal. Pet owners must clean up their animal's feces immediately, except for guide dogs, in public areas or on property they don't own. Keeping yards and pens clean is essential to avoid health hazards and nuisances.
• Noise regulations. It's unlawful for an animal owner to allow their pet to become a public nuisance by making excessive noise. Pets can't make excessive noise for more than 15 minutes from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., and no more than 10 minutes from 10:01 p.m. to 6:59 a.m. Complaints must include recordings, come from multiple households, or be corroborated by an officer.

Joliet Pet Laws

Joliet's varied landscape, from the Des Plaines River to the Rialto Square Theatre, is home to many pets and owners. The city's pet laws reflect its industrial and suburban mix, aiming to balance the needs of pets, owners, and the community. Here's what pet owners in Joliet should know:

• Collar and license tag requirements. It is unlawful to allow any dog to be on any public street, sidewalk, alley, or other public place without a collar firmly attached around their neck, displaying a current license tag. Dogs must always wear this collar and tag when in public.
• Running at large. Dogs cannot be in public areas without a leash or enclosure. Repeat offenders must be sterilized within 30 days, or face impoundment and sterilization at the owner's expense.
• Bites and attacks. Owners must prevent their dogs from biting or attacking any person or property. Any biting or attacking dog is considered a nuisance. Owners must report incidents to the Joliet Police Department immediately.
• Damaging and defacing property. It's illegal for owners or those in charge to allow dogs to defecate on or damage any private property within the city.

Common Pet Risks in Illinois

The Prairie State's unique blend of urban and rural environments, coupled with its dramatic seasonal changes, creates a range of potential hazards for pets. Here's what Illinois pet owners need to watch out for:

• Leptospirosis. This bacterial disease, often found in contaminated water, is a growing concern in Illinois. It can affect both pets and humans, with cases reported in urban puddles and rural streams alike. Symptoms in pets can range from mild to severe, including fever, vomiting, and jaundice. Vaccination is available and recommended for at-risk dogs.
• Tick-borne diseases. Illinois' wooded areas and tall grasses are home to various tick species, putting pets at risk for diseases like Lyme disease and Ehrlichiosis. These illnesses can cause fever, joint pain, and in severe cases, organ damage. Regular tick checks and preventative medications are crucial, especially during warmer months.
• Harmful algal blooms. Illinois' numerous lakes and rivers, including Lake Michigan, can experience harmful algal blooms. These can produce toxins dangerous to pets if ingested. Symptoms of exposure can include vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, liver failure. Pet owners should be cautious about letting their animals swim in or drink from bodies of water with visible algal growth.
• Urban hazards. In cities like Chicago, pets face unique risks such as exposure to air pollution and encounters with urban wildlife. Long-term exposure to air pollution can exacerbate respiratory issues in pets, while interactions with city animals can lead to injuries or disease transmission.
• Wildlife encounters. In Illinois, particularly in rural and suburban areas, native animals can pose risks to pets. Coyotes, raccoons, and foxes are common and can threaten small pets if they wander outside unprotected. Additionally, snakes and birds of prey may pose dangers. Pet owners should supervise outdoor activities and secure their properties to minimize these risks.
• Weather-related risk. The climate in Illinois presents year-round challenges. Hot, humid summers can lead to heat stroke in pets, particularly brachycephalic breeds. Conversely, the state's harsh winters pose risks of hypothermia and frostbite, especially for short-haired breeds and elderly pets. Pet owners should take precautions during extreme weather conditions.

Veterinary Costs in Illinois

According to Banfield Pet Hospital's Price Estimator, the average cost for a vet visit in Illinois is $73. However, costs will be higher for emergency care or specialized treatments. Here's an overview of vet visit costs in five cities across the state:

Best Pet Insurance by City in Illinois

As mentioned earlier, where you live can affect the cost of pet insurance. Here's an overview of the most affordable pet insurance providers in three major cities in Illinois:

Methodology

The PetPlace team compiled this guide through research and analysis of publicly available data. Some of the factors we considered include policy rates, waiting periods, the availability of a 24/7 vet helpline, and wellness routine care coverage. Our goal is to provide helpful information for pet owners in Illinois. However, we recommend conducting your own research, speaking to your vet, and considering your budget and your pet's specific needs before deciding on a pet insurance provider.

Best Pet Insurance in Illinois FAQs

Recommended Resources

• 7 Essential Tips for Choosing a Pet Insurance Policy That’s Right for You
• Compare and Contrast Pet Insurance Providers
• How Are Pet Wellness Plans Different from Pet Insurance?
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• Pet Insurance: What It Covers
• Pet Insurance for Kittens