Fortunately, many top pet insurance companies offer affordable coverage to accommodate various budgets and needs.
To help you score a great deal on the right pet insurance policy for your pet, we’ve done the heavy lifting and identified the cheapest pet insurance companies of 2025 based on price, coverage terms, customer service, and more.
Cheap Pet Insurers at a Glance
Lemonade and Pets Best offer highly customizable coverage, making finding a plan that works well with your budget easy.
Pumpkin won't increase your premiums after you file claims, while Spot won't charge you extra for behavioral modification and prescription food.
ASPCA Pet Health is a budget-friendly option for older pets, and Figo offers unique discounts, such as one for Costco members and another for military personnel.
Embrace's basic plan includes coverage for vet visits, and the insurer advertises a Healthy Pet Premium Discount program to help you save on deductibles and premiums.
Healthy Paws offers low premiums for cats, particularly on its unlimited coverage plans.
Comparing the cheapest pet insurance companies
| Insurer | Average Monthly Premium (Dogs) | Average Monthly Premium (Cats) | Average Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
$59.42 | $39.48 | $49.45 | |
$100.20 | $34.67 | $67.44 | |
$102.65 | $42.49 | $72.57 | |
$103.08 | $42.86 | $72.97 | |
$118.19 | $28.41 | $73.30 | |
$110.18 | $43.66 | $76.92 | |
$122.77 | $47.10 | $84.93 | |
$131.33 | $43.69 | $87.51 |
Methodology: Average premiums for cats, dogs, and all pets reflect the averages across the breeds and ages in the individual insurer sections below. We conducted this research in 2025, and pulled and averaged rates across the following locations: Houston (75835), New York City (10001), and San Francisco (94112). All dogs were female, and all cats were male.
Rates are based on an accident-and-illness policy with a $10,000 coverage limit, a $500 deductible, and an 80% reimbursement rate unless otherwise noted.
A Closer Look at the Cheapest Pet Insurers
1. Lemonade
Why we picked it: Our pricing analysis found Lemonade had the lowest average annual premiums among cats, dogs, and all pets. However, Lemonade has stricter upper-age limits than most pet insurers, and we couldn't get quotes for 10-year-old pets in most of our target zip codes because they were ineligible for coverage.
For pets that qualify for a Lemonade plan, the AI-centric pet insurance company makes it easy to find a comprehensive plan that aligns with your budget. You can choose from four deductibles, three reimbursement rates, and five coverage limits. Plus, there are three discount types to make your coverage even more affordable.
Pros
Depends on AI-powered underwriting that reduces costs and leads to lower rates
Plans are highly customizable to meet various price points
Affordable rates for young pets
Cons
No option for a more affordable accident-only policy
Base plans don’t include vet exam fees
Older pets are often ineligible for coverage
Sample monthly rates for dogs*
| 1-year-old | 4-year-old | 10-year-old | Average | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Mix | $34.13 | $41.12 | N/A | $37.63 |
Beagle | $52.84 | $55.43 | N/A | $54.14 |
French Bulldog | $84.70 | $93.85 | N/A | $89.23 |
German Shepherd | $53.47 | $59.83 | N/A | $56.65 |
Average | $56.29 | $62.56 | N/A | $59.52 |
*Prices reflect a $20,000 coverage limit, a $500 deductible, and an 80% reimbursement rate.
Sample monthly rates for cats*
| 1-year-old | 4-year-old | 10-year-old | Average | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Domestic Shorthair | $26.10 | $25.42 | $66.10 | $39.21 |
Bengal | $29.09 | $26.91 | $82.44 | $46.15 |
Ragdoll | $27.28 | $29.15 | N/A | $28.22 |
Average | $27.49 | $27.16 | $74.27 | $39.48 |
*Prices reflect a $20,000 coverage limit, a $500 deductible, and an 80% reimbursement rate.
Available discounts:
Multi-pet discount
Annual payment discount
Bundling discount
2. Pumpkin
Why we picked it: Pumpkin’s prices are competitive and it happens to cover certain care that other pet insurers do not, including prescription food, alternative therapy, and sick fee exams.
Plus, if you choose this pet insurer, you may submit as many claims as you'd like without worrying about a premium increase. You can also score 10% off just for insuring multiple pets and opt for the less expensive preventive care package to enjoy coverage for routine services, like wellness exams and vaccinations, without overspending.
Pros
Rates won’t increase if you file a claim
10% discount for insuring more than one pet
Wellness Club offers two tiers so you can choose a plan that aligns with your budget
Cons
Only 80% or 90% reimbursement rate (no 70% option to secure lower monthly rates)
No accident-only plan available
14-day waiting period for accidents
Sample monthly rates for dogs
| 1-year-old | 4-year-old | 10-year-old | Average | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Mix | $47.18 | $52.53 | $134.15 | $77.96 |
Beagle | $54.16 | $59.94 | $154.23 | $157.23 |
French Bulldog | $86.53 | $95.67 | $247.80 | $143.33 |
German Shepherd | $54.57 | $60.39 | $155.57 | $90.18 |
Average | $60.61 | $67.13 | $172.94 | $100.20 |
Sample monthly rates for cats*
| 1-year-old | 4-year-old | 10-year-old | Average | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Domestic Shorthair | $21.61 | $24.47 | $50.31 | $32.13 |
Bengal | $26.66 | $29.50 | $63.12 | $39.76 |
Ragdoll | $21.61 | $24.47 | $50.31 | $32.13 |
Average | $23.32 | $26.15 | $54.58 | $67.44 |
*Prices reflect a $7,000 coverage limit, $500 deductible, 80% reimbursement rate.
Available discounts:
10% multi-pet discount
Annual payment discount
3. Spot
Why we picked it: Spot offers one of the most robust suites of plan customizations, including an industry-leading selection of seven annual coverage limits, that help you find pet insurance within your budget. Plus, Spot gives you the option of a more affordable accident-only plan that includes microchipping.
And, while it might not have had the lowest monthly average premium among the pet insurers we reviewed, its base accident-and-illness plans offer coverage for commonly excluded items, such as acupuncture and chiropractic care, behavioral modification for issues like anxiety and aggression, end-of-life expenses, supplements, stem-cell therapy, and prescription food.
Pros
Advertises insurance premiums for as low as $15 per month for dogs and $9 per month for cats
Older pet-friendly
Strong customer service scores
Cons
Unlimited coverage option can significantly increase rates
Annual premium increases based on pet’s age
May find more discount opportunities through other insurers
Sample monthly rates for dogs
| 1-year-old | 4-year-old | 10-year-old | Average | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Mix | $48.17 | $53.31 | $137.40 | $79.63 |
Beagle | $55.33 | $61.24 | $158.09 | $91.54 |
French Bulldog | $88.59 | $97.96 | $254.62 | $147.06 |
German Shepherd | $55.78 | $61.74 | $159.59 | $92.37 |
Average | $61.97 | $68.56 | $177.43 | $102.65 |
Sample monthly rates for cats
| 1-year-old | 4-year-old | 10-year-old | Average | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Domestic Shorthair | $26.38 | $29.86 | $61.70 | $39.31 |
Bengal | $31.62 | $36.94 | $77.92 | $48.83 |
Ragdoll | $26.38 | $29.86 | $61.70 | $39.31 |
Average | $28.13 | $32.22 | $67.11 | $42.49 |
Available discounts:
10% multi-pet discount
AAA member discount
4. ASPCA Pet Health
Why we picked it: The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals or ASPCA Pet Health offers low rates for senior pets and includes coverage for alternative therapies and other services that typically cost extra with different insurers.
If you want to save as much money as possible, you can choose an accident-only plan or an accident-only policy with a lower annual maximum, such as $3,000 or $4,000. As a bonus, if you have a pet with unique or chronic needs, its low $100 deductible option may help you save on out-of-pocket expenses.
Pros
Lower annual limits available to reduce premium costs
Affordable premiums for older pets
Doesn’t charge extra for alternative therapies, congenital conditions, and behavioral issues
Cons
Must upgrade to top-tier preventative plan to receive coverage for spay/neuter surgery, blood tests, and other important services
14-day waiting period for accidents
Must call to receive quotes for unlimited annual coverage
Sample monthly rates for dogs
| 1-year-old | 4-year-old | 10-year-old | Average | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Mix | $48.34 | $53.50 | $137.97 | $79.94 |
Beagle | $55.54 | $61.46 | $158.77 | $91.92 |
French Bulldog | $88.95 | $98.35 | $255.82 | $147.71 |
German Shepherd | $56.00 | $61.97 | $160.29 | $92.75 |
Average | $62.21 | $68.82 | $178.21 | $103.08 |
Sample monthly rates for cats
| 1-year-old | 4-year-old | 10-year-old | Average | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Domestic Shorthair | $26.53 | $30.02 | $62.07 | $39.54 |
Bengal | $32.97 | $37.15 | $78.42 | $49.51 |
Ragdoll | $26.53 | $30.02 | $62.07 | $39.54 |
Average | $28.68 | $32.39 | $67.52 | $42.86 |
Available discounts:
Multi-pet discount
Veterinary employee discount
Annual payment discount
5. Figo
Why we picked it: Figo offers multiple discounts, including one for Costco members, people who insure numerous pets, and members of the military community. While the pet insurance company only provides robust accident-and-illness coverage, you can customize your plan and opt for a $1,500 deductible and/or $5,000 reimbursement rate to make it more affordable.
Additionally, if you own a Frenchie, you'll find that Figo's premiums are lower than other insurers charge for your breed.
Pros
Costco members can save 15%
Older-pet friendly
Offers 100% reimbursement rate option
Cons
Cheaper accident-only plan is not available
Vet exam fees cost extra
Multi-pet discount of 5% is lower than what other pet insurers offers
Sample monthly rates for dogs
| 1-year-old | 4-year-old | 10-year-old | Average | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Mix | $35.86 | $40.34 | $126.36 | $67.53 |
Beagle | $45.33 | $50.95 | $159.55 | $85.28 |
French Bulldog | $72.30 | $81.25 | $254.45 | $136.33 |
German Shepherd | $49.94 | $56.12 | $175.73 | $93.93 |
Average | $50.86 | $57.17 | $179.02 | $118.19 |
Sample monthly rates for cats
| 1-year-old | 4-year-old | 10-year-old | Average | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Domestic Shorthair | $18.83 | $14.23 | $49.92 | $29.08 |
Bengal | $18.83 | $18.50 | $49.92 | $29.08 |
Ragdoll | $18.46 | $18.12 | $48.89 | $28.49 |
Average | $18.71 | $16.95 | $49.58 | $28.41 |
Available discounts:
Multi-pet discount
Military discount
Costco member discount
6. Pets Best
Why we picked it: Pets Best offers accident-only plans, accident-and-illness coverage, and wellness plans so you can easily find coverage that fits your budget. Unlike other pet insurance companies, Pets Best accident-and-illness policies are available in three-tiers. If you'd like to save money, you can choose the Essential tier, instead of Plus or Elite.
In addition, the pet insurer may pay your vet directly so you don't have to come up with the funds upfront and wait for reimbursement.
Pros
Direct pay to vet option
Low-deductible option ($50)
Offers budget-friendly accident-only policies
Cons
Exam fees are not included in the base Essential plan
Lower multi-pet discount than competitors
Must upgrade to top-tier plan to receive coverage for alternative therapies
Sample monthly rates for dogs*
| 1-year-old | 4-year-old | 10-year-old | Average | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Mix | $33.57 | $35.45 | $106.96 | $59.66 |
Beagle | $52.22 | $55.14 | $165.40 | $90.92 |
French Bulldog | $96.77 | $107.95 | $346.18 | $183.63 |
German Shepherd | $56.74 | $60.39 | $202.50 | $107.51 |
Average | $59.83 | $64.73 | $205.26 | $110.18 |
*Prices reflect the Plus plan.
Sample monthly rates for cats*
| 1-year-old | 4-year-old | 10-year-old | Average | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Domestic Shorthair | $22.69 | $22.69 | $63.78 | $36.39 |
Bengal | $25.88 | $27.33 | $82.46 | $45.22 |
Ragdoll | $25.99 | $28.99 | $93.13 | $49.37 |
Average | $24.85 | $26.34 | $79.79 | $43.66 |
*Prices reflect the Plus plan.
Available discounts:
Multi-pet discount
Military discount
7. Embrace
Why we picked it: Embrace's Healthy Pet Premium Discount program lowers your deductible by $50 every year you don't file a claim. This program also rewards you with a 5% discount if you collect less than $300 in reimbursements during your first year of coverage. If you do the same in your second year, you can expect the discount to increase to 10%.
In addition to these unique money-saving benefits for healthy pets, Embrace's comprehensive plans cover vet visits, which many insurers exclude or only offer as an add-on.
Pros
Short zero-day waiting period for accidents
Includes coverage for vet visits
Offers a $25 bonus to use on preventative care if you opt for Wellness Rewards
Cons
Imposes stricter upper-age limits in some areas
$25 fee to activate policy
Must invest in a wellness plan for prescription food reimbursements
Sample monthly rates for dogs
| 1-year-old | 4-year-old | 10-year-old | Average | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Mix | $56.61 | $57.73 | $107.32 | $73.89 |
Beagle | $83.72 | $85.87 | $165.61 | $111.73 |
French Bulldog | $137.89 | $141.61 | $275.49 | $184.99 |
German Shepherd | $89.81 | $92.23 | $179.36 | $120.45 |
Average | $92.00 | $94.36 | $181.95 | $110.18 |
Sample monthly rates for cats
| 1-year-old | 4-year-old | 10-year-old | Average | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Domestic Shorthair | $24.54 | $29.70 | $51.38 | $35.21 |
Bengal | $37.64 | $45.46 | $76.03 | $53.04 |
Ragdoll | $37.64 | $45.46 | $76.03 | $53.04 |
Average | $33.27 | $40.21 | $67.81 | $47.10 |
Available discounts:
Multi-pet discount
Military discount
Discount for paying annually
8. Healthy Paws
Why we picked it: Our pricing analysis found Healthy Pats, which offers one accident-and-illness plan with a 90% reimbursement rate, is a solid choice if you’re seeking low rates for cats, especially if you’d like unlimited coverage.
Also, the insurer doesn’t charge additional fees for enrollment or registration — and it may pay your vet directly so you don’t have to worry about footing the bill upfront.
Pros
Competitive rates, particularly for cats
Unlimited coverage (no lifetime or annual caps)
Optional direct pay to vets available
Cons
Doesn’t advertise any discounts
No accident-only plan available for pet owners on a budget
Must pay out-of-pocket for preventative care or look elsewhere for wellness coverage
Sample monthly rates for dogs*
| 1-year-old | 4-year-old | 10-year-old | Average | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Mix | $48.24 | $59.72 | $164.24 | $90.73 |
Beagle | $51.35 | $63.62 | $180.47 | $98.48 |
French Bulldog | $99.07 | $122.72 | $384.34 | $202.04 |
German Shepherd | $71.29 | $88.26 | $242.63 | $134.06 |
Average | $67.49 | $83.58 | $242.92 | $131.33 |
*Prices reflect an unlimited coverage limit, a $500 deductible, and an 80% reimbursement rate.
Sample monthly rates for cats*
| 1-year-old | 4-year-old | 10-year-old | Average | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Domestic Shorthair | $19.04 | $23.59 | $65.34 | $35.99 |
Bengal | $26.75 | $33.13 | $89.83 | $49.90 |
Ragdoll | $24.03 | $29.76 | $81.73 | $45.17 |
Average | $23.27 | $28.83 | $78.97 | $43.69 |
*Prices reflect an unlimited coverage limit, a $500 deductible, and an 80% reimbursement rate.
Available discounts:
None
Methodology: How we picked the cheapest pet insurance
Our seasoned team rates and reviews pet insurers across the following categories:
Costs: We compared each pet insurance company's premiums to industry averages and considered the value of its policies and discount opportunities. To do this accurately, we pulled online quotes for each insurer.
Coverage terms: We consider plan types, flexibility, special waiting periods, exclusions, and additional features or add-ons.
Availability: We uncovered the insurer's geographic reach and age and breed limits for eligibility. Of course, pet insurers who serve pet parents in all 50 states and Washington, D.C., were winners in our book.
Claims process: We reviewed claims processing and reimbursement times and the availability of direct pay to vets. We gave weight to fast claims processing and reimbursement, as well as the option to pay vets directly.
Customer service: Our team used reputable third-party review sites such as Trustpilot and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to gauge customer service and reputation. We paid close attention to positive and negative policyholder reviews.
Note that for this list, we heavily focused on and selected insurers with the most affordable rates and discounts. Learn more about how we rate and review pet insurers in our methodology.
What Is Cheap Pet Insurance?
Pet insurance is similar to health insurance for humans. It helps pet owners save on high out-of-pocket medical costs for their pets. Cheap pet insurance refers to pet insurance coverage with affordable rates. It's designed to accommodate pet parents on a budget so they can care for their pets without overpaying.
Keep in mind that the term ‘cheap pet insurance’ is somewhat subjective as everyone's definition of cheap is different. However, most pet owners would agree that a cheap pet policy has lower-than-average premiums for their pet's breed, age, and health needs.
Cheap pet insurance may also include discount opportunities or offer a long list of coverages to provide excellent value.
How Much Does Pet Insurance Cost?
Pet insurance costs vary greatly.
“The cost of pet insurance is dependent on several factors, including the age and breed of your pet, your zip code, the type of plan (accident-only versus accident-and-illness), add-ons, such as wellness plans, policy premiums, deductibles, and more,” says Jared Vestal, CMO of Independence Pet Holdings.
Having said that, our analysis found the average premium across pet types was $79.53 a month or $954.36 a year for an accident-and-illness plan.
Dog Insurance pricing
Since dogs are usually larger and more susceptible to certain health issues, they’re more expensive to insure than cats.
According to the latest data from the North American Pet Health Insurance Association (NAPHIA), dog owners will pay an average of $56.30 per month for an accident-and-illness plan or $17.01 for an accident-only plan.
Cat Insurance pricing
In most cases, cats are cheaper to insure than dogs. Per NAPHIA, cat accident-and-illness coverage costs an average of $31.94 monthly. Pet owners can expect to pay a monthly average of $9.68 for an accident-only plan.
How to Save on Pet Insurance: Tricks and Tips
With these tips, you can score a great deal on pet insurance.
Buy early: Enrolling your pet in an insurance plan while they're still young—such as when they first come home—can keep premiums low. Younger pets are typically healthier and less likely to have pre-existing conditions, which can make coverage more affordable, according to veterinarian Paige Adams from Etowah Veterinary Hospital.
Explore discounts: Many pet insurance providers offer various discounts, including multi-pet discounts or partnerships with organizations that provide special rates. Other common savings include discounts for paying annually or for military personnel. It's worth asking your provider about available deals.
Consider wellness offerings: “Find out if pet wellness or dental procedures are covered or if there is an extra fee,” says Vestal. Even though it’s an add-on, wellness coverage can help with preventative care, which may help save you money in the long run. Some pet insurers offer different tiers of wellness plans so you may find an affordable option for your pet’s needs.
Pick the right plan: Most pet insurance providers offer customizable plan options with deductibles and coinsurance to fit customers' budgets. “For example, you may elect to have a lower reimbursement amount in the event of an accident or illness, which could bring down your monthly pet insurance payment, or you may opt for an accident-only policy if you have an older pet,” explains Vestal.
Don't overbuy: Dr. Adams advises pet owners to be mindful of which policies they truly need and will use. Some plans include optional wellness coverage, but if you don't anticipate using preventative care services often, it may not be worth the extra cost.
Ask your vet: Your veterinarian can be a valuable resource when choosing pet insurance. They often have firsthand experience dealing with different insurers and may be able to recommend a company known for reliable claims processing and reasonable pricing.
Frequently asked questions
What Is the Best Cheapest Pet Insurance?
The cheapest pet insurance company depends on your pet and situation. Lemonade, Pumpkin, Spot, ASPCA, Figo, Pets Best, Embrace, and Healthy Paws are all affordable insurers to consider.
Is There Any Free Pet Insurance?
Free pet insurance is uncommon. You’ll likely have to invest in coverage unless you receive grant funds, raise money through crowdfunding, or your employer offers it as a benefit.
How Can I Pay Less for Pet Insurance?
To lower your pet insurance costs, shop around and play with different coverage options. Also, buy when your pet is young, avoid unnecessary add-ons, and take advantage of any discounts that may apply to you.
