The two main plan types differ in one big way — whether illness is covered. Here is how to choose.
When you shop for pet insurance you'll see two core plan types. The difference is simple but important.
Covers injuries: broken bones, swallowed objects, bite wounds, lacerations, being hit by a car. It does not cover illness — no cancer, infections, allergies, or chronic disease. It's the cheapest option, sometimes a fraction of a full plan.
Covers accidents and illnesses — cancer, infections, digestive issues, allergies, hereditary and chronic conditions (when not pre-existing). This is what most people mean by "pet insurance," and it's where the big, scary bills are covered.
Neither core plan covers routine care. A wellness/preventive add-on reimburses a set amount toward vaccines, exams, and dental cleanings if you want it.
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Accident-only covers injuries (broken bones, swallowed objects, accidents) but not illness. Accident-and-illness covers both injuries and illnesses like cancer, infections, and chronic disease — it's the standard, more comprehensive plan.
It can be, for a tight budget or an older pet where a full plan is costly or limited by pre-existing exclusions. But it leaves all illness costs on you, which is where many of the largest bills come from.
No. Vaccines, annual exams, and dental cleanings are preventive care, covered only if you add an optional wellness plan.