Get the Best Pet Insurance in New York in 2024

Sponsored by Figo Pet Insurance

If you're a pet parent in New York State, finding the right pet insurance can be challenging. With so many options, coverage levels, premiums, and deductibles, it's essential to understand what to look for in a policy.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll give you a helping hand by exploring the essentials of pet insurance and how to get the best coverage for your pet in New York State. We’ll break down the costs, examine the differences among plans from leading insurers, and highlight important consumer protections and laws specific to the Empire State. By the end, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge you need to help make an informed decision on the best pet insurance plan for your dog or cat.

Summary: Best New York 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 07/08/2024 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. 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 New York?

According to our research, New York pet insurance costs an average of $54 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 $85 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 New York cities: New York City, a major urban center, and Syracuse, an average-sized city for the state.

It's important to note that your own New York 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.

In addition, various other factors 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 New York pet insurance plans carefully and choose a policy that suits your budget and your pet's specific needs.

Cost of Pet Insurance for Dogs in New York

According to our research, the average cost of pet insurance for a three-year-old, medium-sized, mixed-breed dog in New York State is $54 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 an annual deductible of $250 and an 80% reimbursement rate, costs $85 monthly.

Cost of Pet Insurance in New York 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 New York:

Cost of Pet Insurance for Cats in New York

Pet insurance for cats is significantly cheaper than dog insurance in New York. The average monthly cost for cat insurance in New York ranges from $18 to $48, depending on factors such as age, annual coverage, breed, deductible, plan type, and reimbursement amount**.

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

Cost Comparison for Pet Insurance Companies in New York

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, often covering injuries like cuts, broken bones, and sprains. This can include 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 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 determine the percentage of a vet bill that will be paid back to you after you've met your deductible. Reimbursement levels offered by pet insurance companies usually range from 70% to 90%. Keep in mind that higher reimbursement rates typically result in higher premiums, so you'll need to find the right balance that works for your budget and pet’s 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 begins. Most pet insurance plans have a waiting period for both accidents and illnesses, which can range from days to 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 an accident or illness that occurs during a waiting period.

How to Find the Best Pet Insurance in New York

When exploring pet insurance options in New York, it's important to think about how living in the Empire State could affect what you need from your pet insurance policy.

Natural disasters, while less frequent than in some other states, can still occur in New York. Events like hurricanes and severe winter storms can lead to unexpected accidents or injuries for your pet. Additionally, urban wildlife such as raccoons and rats could also pose a threat to your furry friend.

Given these factors, pet parents should look for insurance policies that provide a broad range of coverage and support. Here are some critical features to consider when choosing the best pet insurance plan in New York:

• 24/7 vet helpline. Access to a round-the-clock veterinary helpline for advice on emergency care or general health questions can be incredibly valuable.
• 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/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. Having coverage for exam fees may 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.

New York Pet Laws

New York has specific laws in place to protect pets and their owners. Here are key laws and regulations affecting pet owners in the state:

• Leash laws. While New York State does not have a statewide leash law, many cities and towns have their own regulations requiring dogs to be on a leash no longer than six feet when in public spaces. For example, New York City mandates that dogs must be leashed when in public areas, including parks and sidewalks.
• Licensing and vaccination requirements. All dogs are required to be licensed and registered in New York State by the age of four months. This includes mandatory rabies vaccinations, which help protect both pets and people from the spread of the virus.
• Animal cruelty laws. New York State requires that domesticated animals be kept in good health and provided with adequate food, water, care, and shelter. It is illegal to subject animals to unjustified or unwarranted pain or suffering. These laws ensure that pets are treated humanely and that their welfare is a priority.
• Dangerous dog laws. New York State mandates the seizure and control of dogs that cause serious injury or death to a person or another animal. If a dog is deemed dangerous, the court can order measures such as confinement, muzzling, or euthanasia in severe cases.
• Pet travel and transportation. Pets entering New York State must have a current rabies vaccination and a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI) issued within 30 days prior to entry. Most airlines also require a health certificate from a vet before allowing a pet to travel.

Hempstead Pet Laws

As one of the largest cities in New York State, the town of Hempstead (on Long Island) also has specific laws and regulations related to pets. Here are some key points to keep in mind if you're a pet owner in Hempstead:

• Leash laws. Dogs must be on a leash at all times when in public areas, except in designated off-leash zones. Leashes must be under 6 feet long.
• Licensing and vaccination requirements. All dogs must be licensed and have a current rabies vaccination. Licenses are issued by the town of Hempstead.
• Pet limits. Households may have a maximum of four dogs or cats over the age of three months.
• Animal cruelty laws. Strict laws ensure pets are provided with adequate food, water, shelter, and care. Failure to do so can result in prosecution.
• Barking dog ordinance. Excessive barking may be considered a nuisance, leading to fines and other penalties.
• Tethering restrictions. Dogs cannot be tethered outside for more than two hours without supervision.

Brookhaven Pet Laws

Brookhaven, a vibrant town in Suffolk County, has specific laws to ensure the safety and well-being of pets. Here are a few things to keep in mind if you're a pet owner in Brookhaven:

• Licensing and vaccination requirements. All dogs aged four months or older must be licensed and vaccinated against rabies.
• Leash laws. Dogs must be leashed at all times in public spaces, unless in designated off-leash recreation areas.
• Control of dog waste. Pet owners must immediately clean up after their dogs in public areas, with fines for non-compliance.
• Dangerous dogs. Regulations exist for the confinement and restraint of dogs that are deemed dangerous by a judge.

Islip Pet Laws

The Town of Islip, also in Suffolk County, has specific regulations to ensure the well-being and safety of pets. Key points include:

• Leash laws. Dogs must be leashed when off their owner's property unless in designated off-leash areas.
• Licensing and vaccination requirements. All dogs four months or older must be licensed and vaccinated against rabies. The only exception to this is if you have a statement from a licensed vet saying that such vaccination would endanger the animal's life.
• Nuisance animals. Pet owners must prevent their animals from becoming a nuisance by making excessive noise or damaging property.
• Dangerous dogs. Dogs deemed dangerous must be properly restrained and controlled to prevent harm to people and other animals.

Common Pet Risks in New York

New York's diverse climate and urban environment pose unique health risks for pets. Here are some specific risks to watch out for:

• Heat stroke. Summers can be hot and humid, leading to heat stroke in pets. Always provide shade and fresh water to keep your furry friend safe.
• Ticks and Lyme disease. New York has a high prevalence of ticks carrying Lyme disease. Regular tick prevention and checks are essential.
• Toxic plants. New York State is home to a variety of harmful plants, including poison ivy, wild parsnip, and giant hogweed. That's why it's important to be aware of your surroundings and prevent your pet from ingesting potentially toxic plants.
• Cold weather. Winters can be harsh. Ensure pets are kept warm and limit exposure to extreme cold. It's best to keep your pets inside when temperatures dip below freezing.
• Rat poison and urban hazards. Urban areas pose risks like rodent poison and traffic. Supervise pets in any areas that may contain harmful substances and keep them away from potential hazards.

Veterinary Costs in New York

According to Banfield Pet Hospital's Price Estimator, the average cost for a vet visit in New York is $78. 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 Cheap Pet Insurance by City in New York

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 New York cities:

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 New York. 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 New York 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