Pet Insurance

[fragrancehound]

Since Panther's recent health scare I've been looking into pet insurance and am a little frustrated with the whole thing. Many companies don't even accept older cats and the few that do want you do submit medical records and won't cover any pre-existing conditions. But what really ticks me off is if your fur baby needs surgery they don't prepay for the procedure. You do and then they reimburse you for whatever % or $ amount is covered under the insurance policy. I just find it frustrating. How does one afford a major medical expense? I really wish vets would accept pet insurance so I could just walk in and give a $30 co-pay and be able to pay the remaining amount out over a period of time. Does something like that even exist??

I just can't get over how $$$ everything is for my Panther's health. When I took him to the specialty surgical vet center I had to put down a very large deposit and pay the remaining amount when I picked him up the next day. His surgery alone was almost $1,000 and that didn't include the bloodwork, x-rays, needle aspiration, shots and exam. All in all I've spent almost $1,500. Luckily I had my family to help me out but it scares me knowing that his bills can get this high. I really wish there was a better way, a more affordable way to provide solid health care for pets.

[LittleOrangeKitten]

Hi fragrancehound,

It is frustrating trying to find a good pet insurance company. I have been using Pet Care Insurance for a while now; since Naranj and P. K. were kittens. This company requires they reimburse you after you pay the vet; I'm not sure if there is a company out there who does it the other way around.

If I hear of anyone who does the straight reimbursement I will let you know.

Good luck with Panther.

[fragrancehound]

I really doubt that there is a pet insurance co. that has a straight reimbursement plan although it would be very very nice! How do these companies expect you to lay down $4,000+ and then get reimbursed later??

[Laura's Babies]

..and they may or may not even reinburse you on the claim....

BUT, on the otherhand, I reckon it is better than nothing!