What cat insurance does
Cat insurance can contribute towards eligible veterinary costs for new illnesses and injuries, subject to the policy’s limits, excesses and exclusions. It is not a savings account and does not make every treatment free. The contract determines what is covered.
Independent surveys suggest that roughly half of UK cats are insured, although estimates differ because the surveys use different samples. The Association of British Insurers reported that its members paid £232 million in cat claims during 2024.
The four common policy structures
Accident only
Provides a defined amount for accidental injury. Illness is excluded.
Time limited
Provides a condition limit and a treatment period, commonly twelve months.
Maximum benefit
Provides a fixed pot for each condition without an annual reset for that condition.
Lifetime
Provides limits that can reset at renewal while uninterrupted cover continues, subject to the contract.
Terms that change what you pay
Excess and co-payment
The excess is your fixed contribution to an eligible claim. Some policies also require a percentage co-payment, particularly from a stated age. Ask for a worked example showing both.
Pre-existing conditions
A condition that existed, showed signs or was investigated before cover began is commonly excluded. Disclose veterinary history accurately. A new provider may treat conditions covered by an existing provider as pre-existing.
Waiting periods and renewal
Policies normally exclude conditions arising during an initial waiting period. Premiums and terms can change at renewal, while a break in cover may affect continuing conditions.
Guides by breed
Guides by life stage and cost
Questions and answers
Does cat insurance cover pre-existing conditions?
Generally not. Conditions that existed, showed signs or were investigated before cover began are usually excluded. Definitions differ, so disclose the cat's history and read the policy.
What is a co-payment?
A percentage of an eligible claim that the owner pays, often in addition to a fixed excess. It is commonly introduced when a pet reaches a specified age.
Why can a premium rise at renewal?
Age, claims history, veterinary prices, breed, postcode and the insurer's risk assessment can all contribute. Ask the insurer to explain an increase that appears wrong.