Get the Best Pet Insurance in Minnesota in 2024

Sponsored by Figo Pet Insurance

Pet parents in Minnesota have endless opportunities for outdoor adventures with their furry friends. From hiking the North Shore to exploring city parks, there’s plenty for pets to enjoy – but these activities also bring their own set of risks. Pet insurance can be a valuable resource, providing a safety net for those unexpected vet visits and giving you peace of mind as you explore the state with your pet.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll take a look at pet insurance options for Minnesota residents. We’ll explore factors such as coverage limits, costs, and key policy features to consider. By the end, you'll feel well-equipped to choose a pet insurance plan that meets your needs in the North Star State.

Summary: Best Minnesota 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 11/5/2024 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 Minnesota?

According to our research, Minnesota pet insurance costs an average of $39 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 $63 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 Minnesota cities: Minneapolis, a major urban center, and Hastings, an average-sized city for the state.

It's important to note that your own Minnesota 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 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 Minnesota

Per our research, the average cost of pet insurance for a medium-sized mixed breed dog in Minnesota is $39 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 $63 monthly.

Cost of Pet Insurance in Minnesota 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 Minnesota:

Cost of Pet Insurance for Cats in Minnesota

Pet insurance for cats is significantly cheaper than dog insurance in Minnesota. The average monthly cost for cat insurance in the state ranges from $14 to $51, depending on factors such as age, annual coverage, breed, deductible, plan type, and reimbursement amount**.

Cost of Pet Insurance in Minnesota 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 Minnesota pet insurance, here are the average monthly rates for these breeds:

Cost Comparison for Pet Insurance Companies in Minnesota

Types of Pet Insurance Plans

Pet insurance companies offer policies that provide a broad range of coverage for a variety 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

This type of policy typically 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 help manage and offset the cost of preventive care to maintain your pet's health. 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 Minnesota

When choosing insurance for Minnesota pets, it’s helpful to consider the environmental and seasonal factors that can affect your furry friend's health. Minnesota’s cold winters, with subzero temperatures and heavy snowfall, can pose risks like frostbite and hypothermia, especially for pets spending extended time outdoors. Coverage for cold-weather medical issues can be especially useful during these months.

Wildlife encounters are another consideration, as Minnesota’s parks and rural areas are home to animals like deer, coyotes, and raccoons. Encounters with wildlife can lead to injuries or the spread of disease, making emergency care a valuable feature in a good insurance plan.

Ticks are a significant concern in Minnesota, especially during spring and summer. The state’s wooded and grassy areas host ticks that carry Lyme disease and other illnesses, so insurance that includes tick-borne disease treatment is wise for year-round protection.

Minnesota’s lakes and rivers offer plenty of outdoor fun, but also pose risks like harmful blue-green algae, which can be toxic if ingested. A pet insurance plan with broad coverage helps ensure your pet is protected against these diverse challenges, so you can enjoy Minnesota’s natural beauty together worry-free.

Here are some essential features to consider when selecting the best pet insurance plan in the North Star 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. This is especially important in Minnesota, where pets face unique environmental hazards.
• 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 fees in Minnesota are lower than in some states, but costs can still add up quickly. That's why having coverage for exam fees is a smart idea, as it can lead to significant long-term savings.
• Multi-pet discount. If you have multiple pets, look for providers that offer discounts for insuring more than one pet.

Minnesota Pet Laws

Minnesota is dedicated to promoting the safety and welfare of both pets and their owners through a set of comprehensive pet laws. From protecting animal rights to outlining responsibilities for pet owners, these regulations cover a broad spectrum of issues. Here’s a breakdown of five key areas under Minnesota's pet laws:

• Seizure of unlicensed dogs. In Minnesota, any unlicensed dog found running at large can be seized by any person, and officers are required to do so. A missing license tag is used as proof that the dog is unlicensed and can lead to impoundment.
• Protection against declaw and devocalization discrimination. Starting January 1, 2024, landlords in Minnesota can't discriminate against tenants based on whether their pets are declawed or devocalized. Advertisements shouldn't discourage applications from owners of pets that aren't declawed or devocalized, and occupancy can't be refused for these reasons.
• Homeowner’s insurance and dog breeds. Effective April 2024, insurance companies are not allowed to deny, cancel, or refuse to renew homeowner’s insurance policies based on the breed of the owner’s dog. This move aims to prevent breed-based discrimination in insurance policies.
• Dogs in food and beverage establishments. Cities in Minnesota have the authority to pass ordinances that permit dogs in designated outdoor areas of eateries. These rules ensure that employees don't handle the dogs and that the pets remain leashed and controlled while on the premises.
• Veterinarian rights over unclaimed animals. If a pet is not claimed from a veterinarian within ten days following a procedure, the vet has the legal right to sell the animal. This process requires giving proper notice to the pet's owner and following specific procedures before and after the sale.

Minneapolis Pet Laws

Minneapolis, home to landmarks like the Stone Arch Bridge and Nicollet Mall, has important pet laws to ensure the safety and well-being of pets across the city. These regulations are essential for every pet owner in Minneapolis to understand and follow:

• Licensing requirements. Cats, dogs, or ferrets over four months old must be licensed if kept for more than five days. Licenses may be denied or revoked for non-compliance with Minneapolis Animal Care and Control (MACC) conditions or if the pet becomes a public nuisance.
• Pet ownership limits. You can have up to four pets (dogs, cats, ferrets, or rabbits) older than four months in a residential unit, with no more than three being dogs or cats. Limits can be increased with a special permit from MACC.
• Leash law. Dogs must be leashed in all public and private unfenced areas and properly restrained when entering or exiting off-leash zones.
• Standards of care. Owners must provide sufficient food, water, shelter, exercise, and medical care. Outdoor dogs require a moisture-proof and wind-proof shelter with adequate bedding and shade during warm weather. Owners must also clean up after their pets in public areas.

St. Paul Pet Laws

St. Paul, a city that prides itself on its vibrant communities and beautiful parks, maintains specific regulations to ensure that both pets and residents enjoy a safe and clean environment. If you're a pet owner in St. Paul, here are some important local ordinances you should be aware of:

• Licensing requirements. All dogs over three months old must be licensed in St. Paul. It’s essential to keep the license tag attached to your dog’s collar or harness at all times to comply with local laws.
• Leash law. Dogs must not roam freely and must be leashed or securely tied in unfenced yards, otherwise they're considered at large. Owners of dogs found at large may face legal consequences.
• Cleanup duty. Dog owners must clean up after their pets during walks and also maintain their yards free from dog waste to prevent odors and flies.
• Restrictions on tethering. Using chains, tethers, or pulley systems to confine dogs on your property is restricted. These can only be used for up to two hours at a time.

Rochester Pet Laws

Situated around iconic landmarks such as the Mayo Clinic and Silver Lake, Rochester is committed to the welfare of its residents and their pets. If you're a Rochester resident or planning to move there, understanding the city's animal regulations is vital for maintaining a safe and harmonious environment. Here's what you need to know about local pet laws:

• Pet ownership limits. In Rochester, you can own up to eight cats, dogs, or ferrets if they're over six months old, but no more than five of these can be dogs. If you're interested in breeding, you'll need a breeder’s permit to exceed these limits.
• Rabies vaccination required. All rabies-susceptible animals over four months old must be vaccinated. This includes not only dogs, cats, and ferrets but also livestock like cattle, sheep, and horses.
• Prohibition of certain wild animals. Rochester residents are not allowed to own exotic pets classified as inherently dangerous or naturally wild. This includes lions, tigers, wolves, bears, and certain other exotic animals. Exceptions are made for smaller non-dangerous animals like domesticated birds, non-poisonous snakes, and common small pets purchased from pet stores.
• Animal waste disposal. Pet owners must clean up after their dogs or cats on any private (without the owner’s consent) or public property. Exceptions are made for service animals like seeing-eye dogs and police dogs.

Common Pet Risks in Minnesota

Minnesota’s mix of forested areas, abundant lakes, and cold winters creates unique risks for pets. Here are some specific hazards that pet parents should be mindful of in the North Star State:

• Extreme cold and winter hazards. Minnesota’s long, harsh winters bring risks of frostbite and hypothermia, especially for pets that spend extended time outdoors. Ice can also lead to slips or paw injuries. Ensuring pets have adequate shelter and limiting outdoor exposure during extreme cold is essential to their health and safety.
• Wildlife. In rural areas and state parks, pets may encounter wildlife such as deer, coyotes, and raccoons. These animals can pose risks of injury or disease transmission, particularly if pets roam unsupervised. Keeping pets on a leash and closely monitored can help reduce these risks.
• Tick exposure and Lyme disease. Ticks are common in Minnesota’s wooded and grassy areas, especially in warmer months. They can transmit diseases like Lyme disease and anaplasmosis, which can cause joint pain, fever, and fatigue in pets. Using year-round tick preventatives and inspecting pets after outdoor activities are essential.
• Waterborne hazards. With its numerous lakes and rivers, Minnesota is at risk for harmful algal blooms, which can produce toxins dangerous to pets if ingested. Always check for local water advisories before allowing pets to swim and avoid bodies of water with visible algae.
• Mosquito-borne illnesses. Minnesota’s warm, humid summers bring an increase in mosquitoes, which can carry heartworm, a serious disease affecting pets. Using preventive heartworm medication year-round is a key defense against this potentially fatal illness.

Veterinary Costs in Minnesota

According to Banfield Pet Hospital's Price Estimator, the average cost for a vet visit in Minnesota is $75. 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 Minnesota

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 Minnesota:

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 Minnesota. 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 Minnesota 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?
• Is Pet Insurance Worth It for an Indoor Cat?
• Pet Insurance: What It Covers
• Pet Insurance for Kittens