Pet insurance for older cats
As your feline friend gets older, you might be considering pet insurance for your old cat. While cover for an older cat is a little bit different, you’ll still have similar options when it comes to the type of insurance you can pick from.
Provided by Pinnacle Insurance plc.
What is pet insurance for older cats?
There are three main types of pet insurance for older cats, including:
Time Limited
Time limited pet insurance for older cats can cover each condition for up to 12 months from the first date of treatment per condition. You can usually get help toward veterinary fees up to a certain amount, in addition to other benefits. After the 12 months, you’ll need to pay for any ongoing treatment yourself.
Maximum benefit
Otherwise known as maximum benefit, per condition policies give you the maximum amount of cover per condition until you reach the maximum benefit. This means your pet’s cover doesn’t have a time limit but does have a benefit cap.
Lifetime Insurance
For the most comprehensive level of cover, you’ll want to consider lifetime pet insurance. This policy protects your pet for its lifetime, up to a set amount each year. This benefit cap resets each year as long as you continue renewing your policy. There’s a variety of levels, so you can choose a policy based on your pet’s needs.
How old is a senior cat?
Sadly, cats don’t have nine lives and it’s easy to forget that they age quicker than we do – especially with all the countertop acrobatics. If your cat is age seven or up many insurers class them as mature or senior. But don’t worry, they won’t be needing dentures yet.
It does mean they can be more vulnerable though, which means premiums may change and restrictions can be added to your insurance policy depending on your cat’s breed and age. It’s worth considering that there may be age limits to begin policies for your pets. For example, with Sainsbury’s Bank the upper limit for starting a new policy is up to your cat’s 10th birthday. If you already have a policy, your excess may change but cover can continue.
Please note that terms, conditions, excesses, exclusions and limitations apply. You can find out more about the terms of our cover in our policy documents.
Do you need pet insurance for older cats?
Pet insurance for older cats isn’t a legal requirement, but as they age, they can be much more prone to conditions and accidents. Should any issues arise, having pet insurance for your old cat could save a lot on veterinary bills. Additionally, due to limitations or increases in cover as your pet gets older, you may want to do it sooner.
There are other options if insurance isn’t for you, but it’s important to have an emergency fund tucked away as your pet reaches its older years.
Why is pet insurance for older cats more expensive?
In the same way cover can increase in price for older people, the cost increases for pet insurance for older cats too. Insurance is often measured on risk, and the older your cat gets, the more prone it is to develop conditions that it may need additional care. It’s not just about serious conditions either. Some of the more common conditions include:
- Diabetes
- Hyperthyroidism
- Kidney disease
- Dental conditions
- Cancers
- Intestinal problems
Additionally, they may not be as mobile as they used to be which could lead to injury. Age isn’t the only consideration in premiums though and the costs can change depending on a few factors. For example, as well as the level of cover affecting prices, the amount of excess you’re willing to pay can also influence the cost.
It’s also worth noting that pre-existing conditions can influence your premiums, depending on how high risk they are.
Frequently asked questions
Is it worth insuring an old cat?
While the value of insurance is entirely up to you, it’s worth considering what you would do should the worst happen. Whether you’re looking to take out an insurance policy or want to self-insure by putting money away each month, consider the cost and the likelihood of your cat developing any problems as they get older.
Can I insure my 12-year-old cat?
Pet insurance for older cats does exist, but it’s less common and more specialised. If your cat was covered before age 12, then most policies can continue. However, they may not be eligible for new policies.
With Sainsbury’s Bank Pet Insurance, our age limit is up to your cat’s 10th birthday.
Should I insure my 10-year-old cat?
If you want to cover your senior cat with Sainsbury’s Bank, you’ll need to do so before their 10th birthday. Some insurers may offer to cover your pet, though it could be more expensive.
Before you decide to insure, always consider what you need and how you would cope should your pet’s health deteriorate.
Terms and conditions
* The discount is based on information related to you and the Sainsbury’s and Sainsbury’s Bank transactions linked to your Nectar account. For more information on how we use your data, go to sainsburys.co.uk/privacy