Best Pet Insurance in 2025
- Why take out pet insurance?
- What does pet insurance cover?
- What does pet insurance usually not cover?
- How much does pet insurance cost?
- What are the best pet insurance plans?
- How to lower the cost of your pet insurance?
- FAQ
At HelloSafe, our expert team reviews the terms and pricing of pet insurance policies in Ireland every year to offer you honest, reliable, and impartial analysis. Through this dedicated approach, tens of thousands of Irish users rely on us each month to help them make the best financial decisions for their pets and families.
Why take out pet insurance?
Veterinary care in Ireland has become significantly more expensive in recent years, with average costs rising by over 20% in the last decade.
Modern treatments, such as MRIs, cancer therapies, or complex surgeries, can now amount to hundreds or even thousands of euros—posing a real financial risk for pet owners without coverage.
Just as private health insurance protects people from unexpected medical bills, pet insurance helps reduce out-of-pocket expenses and ensures your pet receives the best possible care.
Without insurance, a single emergency can impact both your pet’s health and your household budget.
| Treatment | Estimated Cost (€) | % covered with Basic Plan | % covered with Premium Plan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Digestive surgery (blockage) | €900 – €1,700 | Up to €800 | Up to 100% (annual limit applies) |
| Spaying/neutering | €200 – €280 | Often excluded or up to €100 | Up to 80% (subject to annual limit) |
| X-ray | €110 – €200 | 30% to 50% | Up to 100% |
| Dental scaling | €90 – €160 | Rarely covered or up to €60/year | Up to €120/year |
| Hospitalization (1 night) | €100 – €180 | 30% to 60% | Up to 100% |
| Ear infection treatment | €65 – €130 | 30% to 60% | Up to 90% |
| Blood test | €85 – €130 | Up to 50% | Up to 100% |
| Annual vaccination | €70 – €95 | Not covered or capped at €20 | Up to 100% (if wellness add-on included) |
| Standard vet consultation | €40 – €70 | 30% to 50% | Up to 100% |
| Deworming treatment | €12 – €25 | Not covered | Included up to 2 times/year (if add-on) |
What does pet insurance cover?
Most pet insurance policies in Ireland provide essential cover for vet fees following accidents or illnesses, including consultations, medications, surgeries, hospital stays, and diagnostic tests.
Optional extras—such as preventive care packages—may cover vaccinations, routine dental, deworming, or annual health checks.
Coverage levels vary depending on the chosen plan, with accident-only policies covering emergencies, and comprehensive plans extending to illness, hereditary conditions, and more.
Deductibles may apply yearly or per claim, affecting how much you pay out-of-pocket before the insurer reimburses you.
Selecting the right type—from basic accident-only to full accident + illness or wellness-inclusive plans—depends on your pet’s needs and your budget.
| Name of coverage | 🟢 Essential / 🟠 Recommended | Coverage (Basic Plan) | Coverage (Premium Plan) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vet consultations (GP & emergency) | 🟢 Essential | Covered with caps (e.g. €25/visit, annual limit) | Fully covered up to annual max |
| Medications (prescription only) | 🟢 Essential | Partial reimbursement (50%–70%) | Up to 100% |
| Hospitalization | 🟢 Essential | Capped per day (e.g. €50/day) | Fully covered |
| Surgery & anesthesia | 🟢 Essential | 70% to 80%, annual cap applies | Up to 100% |
| Lab tests (blood, urine) | 🟢 Essential | Up to 50% | Up to 100% |
| Reimbursement rate (%) | 🟢 Essential | 50% to 70% | 90%–100% |
| Annual reimbursement limit | 🟢 Essential | €1,000–€1,500/year | €2,500–€5,000/year |
| Deductible (per year or per claim) | 🟢 Essential | €50–€75 per claim | €0–€50/year |
| Euthanasia (veterinary decision) | 🟢 Essential | Partially covered (€60–€100) | Fully covered |
| Dental accidents (trauma, fracture) | 🟢 Essential | Sometimes excluded or capped | Often included, €300–€600 cap |
| Wellness care (vaccines, deworming) | 🟠 Recommended | Not available | Available as add-on or via wellness package |
| Routine dental scaling | 🟠 Recommended | Not covered | €50–€120/year |
| Radiography, ultrasound, MRI | 🟠 Recommended | Capped (€100–€150 per event) | Included (annual cap e.g. €500) |
| Ambulance transport | 🟠 Recommended | Rarely covered | Covered for emergencies |
| Alternative medicine (acupuncture…) | 🟠 Recommended | Not covered | Sometimes covered (annual cap e.g. €100–€200) |
| Therapeutic diet (if prescribed) | 🟠 Recommended | Not covered | Occasionally reimbursed |
| International travel cover | 🟠 Recommended | Ireland only | EU/UK included (emergency only) |
| Death / cremation costs | 🟠 Recommended | Not included | Partial cover (€100–€350) |
| Theft, loss, search expenses | 🟠 Recommended | Not included | Sometimes included (rare, e.g. €200 limit) |
| Boarding fees (owner hospitalised) | 🟠 Recommended | Not included | Covered up to €250/year |
What does pet insurance usually not cover?
While pet insurance in Ireland provides valuable protection, many policies exclude certain conditions and treatments.
Common exclusions include pre-existing conditions, breed-specific hereditary illnesses, and routine preventive treatments unless a wellness package is added.
There may also be age limits for new enrolments, waiting periods for illness cover, and exclusions for pets not microchipped as required by law.
It’s important to review the policy carefully, especially if your pet is a senior, has an underlying health issue, or belongs to a breed prone to specific conditions.
| Exclusions type | Healthcare not covered | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Medical exclusions | Pre-existing conditions, chronic illnesses diagnosed pre-policy, hereditary/breed-specific conditions (often Bulldogs, German Shepherds etc.), cosmetic surgery | Check if your pet’s existing issues or breed are excluded before buying coverage |
| Geographic exclusions | Treatment outside Ireland/UK, unless travel cover is included | Some plans offer emergency cover in EU; local-only as standard |
| Legal / Identification exclusions | Unlicensed, unchipped, or unvaccinated pets | Irish law requires dogs to be microchipped and registered |
| Preventive/non-urgent exclusions | Vaccines, neutering, deworming, flea/tick prevention, grooming | Covered only if policy includes a wellness add-on |
| Reproduction & pregnancy exclusions | Mating, pregnancy, birth, offspring care | Breeding and related complications not covered |
| Behavioural exclusions | Behavioural therapies, obedience training, aggression | Excluded unless stated, even for anxiety or destructive behaviour |
| Routine/risk-related exclusions | Dental routine cleanings, elective procedures, alternative therapies | Some comprehensive plans offer add-ons for dental or alternative treatments |
How much does pet insurance cost?
The cost of pet insurance in Ireland depends on multiple factors, including your pet’s species, breed, age, health history, where you live, and the level of cover you choose. Premiums usually increase as pets get older, after making claims, or if you add optional benefits.
- Breed: Some breeds are prone to specific illnesses or injuries, affecting premiums
- Age: Older pets are more costly to insure, both at enrolment and renewal
- Location: Vet fees vary across Ireland (higher in urban areas like Dublin)
- Coverage level: Premiums rise with more comprehensive plans and higher annual limits
- Health status: Pre-existing or chronic conditions may increase costs or lead to exclusions
- Claims history: Premiums may rise after frequent or high-value claims
- Add-ons: Adding wellness, travel, or dental cover will increase the monthly price
Dog insurance cost
| 🐶 Dog profile | Common needs or risks | Monthly premium (basic) | Monthly premium (premium) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Labrador Retriever – 2 y/o | Joint issues, obesity | €16–€26 | €45–€63 |
| Labrador Retriever – 10 y/o | Osteoarthritis, cancer | €32–€54 | €85–€120 |
| French Bulldog – 1 y/o | Respiratory issues | €19–€29 | €49–€75 |
| French Bulldog – 9 y/o | Brachycephalic syndrome | €37–€59 | €95–€128 |
| Jack Russell Terrier – 2 y/o | Dental, luxating patella | €14–€22 | €38–€54 |
| Jack Russell Terrier – 11 y/o | Kidney issues, arthritis | €28–€46 | €70–€98 |
Cat insurance cost
| 😺 Cat profile | Common needs or risks | Monthly premium (basic) | Monthly premium (premium) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maine Coon – 2 y/o | HCM risk, joint issues | €13–€20 | €37–€53 |
| Maine Coon – 9 y/o | Heart issues, arthritis | €25–€40 | €69–€92 |
| British Shorthair – 1 y/o | Obesity, dental problems | €11–€17 | €31–€46 |
| British Shorthair – 10 y/o | Diabetes, kidney disease | €22–€37 | €65–€86 |
| Domestic Shorthair – 3 y/o | Routine care, trauma risk | €10–€15 | €28–€39 |
| Domestic Shorthair – 12 y/o | Hyperthyroidism, kidney | €19–€32 | €56–€78 |
What are the best pet insurance plans?
1. Allianz Pet Insurance – Best for vet consult reimbursements
Allianz Pet Insurance's Premier plan is widely recognised in Ireland for its high reimbursement rates on both routine and emergency vet consultations, with no excess for consultations and a generous annual claim limit. It's an excellent choice if you want maximum reimbursement for day-to-day vet visits and peace of mind for unexpected emergencies.
2. An Post Insurance – Best for Older Pets
An Post Insurance offers inclusive accident & illness cover for older pets up to age 10 for dogs (15 for cats) at enrolment, with lifetime renewal guarantees and no abrupt drop-off after your pet reaches a certain age. Their Comprehensive plan stands out for owners of senior pets seeking ongoing claims support.
3. Petinsure.ie – Best for Routine Care
Petinsure.ie’s Prime Plan allows you to add a “Wellness” or “Routine Care” package, covering vaccinations, dental check-ups, and parasite prevention—services rarely included elsewhere. This option is ideal for proactive owners wanting cover for both unexpected illness and annual preventive care.
4. Blue Insurance – Best for small budget
Blue Insurance’s Essential Pet Plan consistently provides some of the lowest entry-level premiums in Ireland for accident & illness cover, while still offering key protections (e.g. up to €2,000 per year on vet fees). Their policies are a strong match for those looking for basic protection without breaking the bank.
5. Allianz Pet Insurance – Best for Customizable Plans
Allianz allows customers to tailor coverage by increasing or decreasing excess, adjusting annual limits, and selecting add-ons such as dental or travel cover. This flexibility makes it particularly suited to pet owners with changing needs or those who want more control over costs and cover.
6. Petinsure.ie – Best for Claim process
Petinsure.ie is well-reviewed across Ireland for its fast, streamlined online claims process and helpful customer support. Their Mobile Claims Portal allows quick uploads of documents and typically responds within days, which can be invaluable during stressful times.
7. Tesco Bank – Best for Multi-pet Households
Tesco Bank Pet Insurance offers generous discounts when you insure multiple pets and manages everything under one policy, simplifying admin for busy families. Their Classic and Premier plans both allow bundled cover for dogs and cats, making it a cost-effective solution for multi-pet owners.
How to lower the cost of your pet insurance?
| Tip | Impact on premium & explanation |
|---|---|
| Compare offers | Use the HelloSafe pet insurance comparison tool at the top of this page to get the best deal for your pet. |
| Choose higher deductible | Opting for a higher excess means lower monthly payments, though you’ll pay more out-of-pocket on each claim. |
| Insure your pet early | Premiums are cheaper for younger pets and you avoid exclusions for pre-existing conditions. |
| Remove non-essential add-ons | Only add wellness or travel options if truly needed to keep your policy affordable. |
| Choose realistic limits | Select lower annual reimbursement caps if your budget is tight, balancing risk and monthly costs. |
| Bundle insurance products | Some providers give discounts if you bundle pet, home, or car insurance together. |
| Maintain regular check-ups | Keeping your pet healthy reduces claim frequency, helping stabilise or lower your premium at renewal. |
| Pay annually | Paying the premium in one go instead of monthly may qualify you for an additional discount. |
FAQ
Is pet insurance worth it in Ireland?
Pet insurance is increasingly popular in Ireland due to rising veterinary costs and the possibility of expensive emergencies or chronic conditions. For most pet owners, insurance provides financial security and peace of mind, covering unforeseen treatments that could otherwise strain your budget.
Can I insure an older dog or cat?
Yes, many Irish insurers allow you to start cover for dogs up to 8–10 years old and cats up to 10–15 years, depending on the provider. Once insured, lifetime policies can be renewed without age limit, but it may be harder or more expensive to start cover for senior pets.
Does pet insurance cover pre-existing conditions?
No, pre-existing conditions are almost always excluded from cover. Insurers may define “pre-existing” as any illness or injury known before the policy start date. It’s important to check how your insurer defines and assesses previous medical history.
What is the difference between accident-only and comprehensive pet insurance?
Accident-only policies cover injuries from accidents (like cuts or broken bones), but not illnesses or chronic conditions. Comprehensive policies cover both accidents and most illnesses, including hereditary conditions and cancer, providing far broader protection.
Will my premium increase after a claim?
Your premium may rise at renewal if you make claims, especially for large amounts or repeat issues. Age-related increases also apply automatically, so insurance generally costs more each year as your pet grows older.
Are vaccinations and routine care covered?
Standard Irish pet insurance plans do not cover routine vaccinations, flea/tick treatments, or annual check-ups unless you buy a wellness or routine care add-on. Always check if your chosen policy offers this and what’s included.
Can I use pet insurance at any vet in Ireland?
Most Irish pet insurers provide freedom of choice, so you can visit any licensed vet or specialist in Ireland. For treatment abroad or while travelling, check the small print—cover is usually limited to emergency care within the EU.
How quickly are claims paid?
With many providers, straightforward claims are paid in 5 to 10 working days once valid documents are submitted. Digital claims systems have helped speed up payments, but complex or incomplete claims may take longer to process.
Do I need pet insurance by law in Ireland?
No, pet insurance is not legally required in Ireland, but all dogs must be microchipped and registered. Insurance is highly recommended to protect against high veterinary bills and liability costs for dog owners.
How do waiting periods work?
Most policies in Ireland apply a waiting period of 10 to 14 days for illness cover, though accident cover often starts immediately. Claims for conditions occurring during the waiting period will not be accepted. Always confirm waiting periods before purchase.
Is pet insurance worth it in Ireland?
Pet insurance is increasingly popular in Ireland due to rising veterinary costs and the possibility of expensive emergencies or chronic conditions. For most pet owners, insurance provides financial security and peace of mind, covering unforeseen treatments that could otherwise strain your budget.
Can I insure an older dog or cat?
Yes, many Irish insurers allow you to start cover for dogs up to 8–10 years old and cats up to 10–15 years, depending on the provider. Once insured, lifetime policies can be renewed without age limit, but it may be harder or more expensive to start cover for senior pets.
Does pet insurance cover pre-existing conditions?
No, pre-existing conditions are almost always excluded from cover. Insurers may define “pre-existing” as any illness or injury known before the policy start date. It’s important to check how your insurer defines and assesses previous medical history.
What is the difference between accident-only and comprehensive pet insurance?
Accident-only policies cover injuries from accidents (like cuts or broken bones), but not illnesses or chronic conditions. Comprehensive policies cover both accidents and most illnesses, including hereditary conditions and cancer, providing far broader protection.
Will my premium increase after a claim?
Your premium may rise at renewal if you make claims, especially for large amounts or repeat issues. Age-related increases also apply automatically, so insurance generally costs more each year as your pet grows older.
Are vaccinations and routine care covered?
Standard Irish pet insurance plans do not cover routine vaccinations, flea/tick treatments, or annual check-ups unless you buy a wellness or routine care add-on. Always check if your chosen policy offers this and what’s included.
Can I use pet insurance at any vet in Ireland?
Most Irish pet insurers provide freedom of choice, so you can visit any licensed vet or specialist in Ireland. For treatment abroad or while travelling, check the small print—cover is usually limited to emergency care within the EU.
How quickly are claims paid?
With many providers, straightforward claims are paid in 5 to 10 working days once valid documents are submitted. Digital claims systems have helped speed up payments, but complex or incomplete claims may take longer to process.
Do I need pet insurance by law in Ireland?
No, pet insurance is not legally required in Ireland, but all dogs must be microchipped and registered. Insurance is highly recommended to protect against high veterinary bills and liability costs for dog owners.
How do waiting periods work?
Most policies in Ireland apply a waiting period of 10 to 14 days for illness cover, though accident cover often starts immediately. Claims for conditions occurring during the waiting period will not be accepted. Always confirm waiting periods before purchase.
