Snitz explains why you should insure your dog or cat?

Make sure to get a policy that includes reimbursement for behavioral therapy (as explained below) and go to a shrink regularly since you're fricken delusional.

How to compare pet insurance companies

While the cost of pet insurance is one of the most important factors you're likely to consider when comparing companies, there are other benefits and features to consider. Instead of comparing only price, consider whether the pet insurance policy offers a wide array of coverage types that are important to you. Consider the following benefits:

• Annual coverage limits: Some plans limit the dollar amount you can receive in benefits, while others are unlimited. If you want a safety net for a substantial emergency vet bill, look into unlimited plans. For example, the North American Pet Health Insurance Association reported that the most expensive dog insurance claim paid in 2024 was $65,889 for a dog in Washington with lymphoma.

• Behavioral therapy: Behavioral therapy needs to be prescribed by a vet in order to be covered by pet insurance. Separation anxiety, for example, can be treated with behavioral therapy.

• 24/7 telehealth access: If you need to talk to someone at odd hours, or if you're located far from a clinic, access to telehealth can make a big difference in the care your pet receives.

• Prescription food and supplements: Depending on the pet insurance company, you might need to purchase an add-on wellness plan to access this benefit. However, our top choices, with 5 stars, include this benefit in their base policies.

• End-of-life expenses: Consider whether you want the base policy to cover end-of-life expenses. Some policies only cover euthanasia for specific conditions, while others include other costs related to end-of-life, such as cremation and burial.

Decide which features and benefits are most important to you. This might include whether the company offers the option to pay the vet directly. Compare optional wellness add-ons and what they cover, too.

If you can pay a little more for more comprehensive coverage, especially as your dog ages, it might be worth it to you.

How to pick the right policy for your pet

Choosing the best pet insurance for your pet depends on your situation and what your pet needs. Look for policies that offer the best coverage at a price that works for your budget.

Many policies can help you find the balance between budget and coverage by allowing you to adjust certain aspects of your policy:

• Annual coverage limits: In some cases, you can choose your annual limits. You might be able to choose $2,000, $5,000, $10,000 or unlimited coverage. If you choose unlimited coverage, your monthly premium is higher than if you choose a lower limit, like $5,000.

• Deductible: The amount you pay out of pocket before your coverage begins can also influence your monthly premium. If you're not sure you can pay a bigger amount out of pocket, but you're flexible enough to handle a higher monthly premium, a $50 or $100 deductible might make sense. On the other hand, if you have a robust emergency fund and can handle a $500 or $1,000 deductible, you might get a break on the monthly premium.

• Reimbursement: After reaching your deductible, the pet insurance company will reimburse a percentage of your costs, usually at a rate of 70%, 80% or 90%. Some plans offer 50% reimbursement, while others offer 100% reimbursement after you reach your deductible. The higher your reimbursement rate, the higher your premiums.

When considering pet insurance, consider how choosing different coverage limits, deductibles and reimbursement rates can help you afford more comprehensive coverage and get the best benefits for each dollar you spend in monthly premiums.