MetLife pet insurance has been noted for its combination of solid coverage and below-average costs. The insurer's Family Plan allows coverage for up to three cats or dogs under one policy with a shared annual limit and deductible.
Policies include both accident and illness coverage by default, with no accident-only plan offered. Coverage encompasses exams, diagnostics, hospitalization, hereditary conditions, dental care, alternative therapies, prescription medications, end-of-life care, lost pet coverage, and boarding fees under certain conditions.
MetLife offers two optional preventive care plans: the Preventative 365 plan providing $365 in value and the Preventive 575 plan covering up to $575 for routine care services. These cover items like routine vet exams, parasite prevention, vaccinations, spay/neuter, teeth cleaning, health screenings, microchipping, and deworming.
Like most pet insurers, MetLife does not cover preexisting conditions. The company includes 24/7 access to a vet helpline with all policies.
Exclusions include treatment by unlicensed veterinarians, services outside the U.S., cosmetic procedures, injuries from neglect or abuse, injuries from racing or law enforcement activities, and routine care without a wellness plan.
Policyholders can decrease benefits at any time, but increases must wait until renewal. MetLife offers a Healthy Pet Incentive that reduces deductibles by $50 after claim-free years and an automatic policy limit increase of $500 when certain conditions are met.
Average monthly cost for a $5,000 annual limit is $81.05, slightly below the industry average of $85.26. MetLife offers a 5% multi-pet discount and additional discounts for military members, first responders, healthcare workers, federal employees, animal industry employees, affinity group members, and group customers.
The insurer typically requires policyholders to pay veterinarians directly and submit claims for reimbursement. Claims must be submitted within 90 days of treatment, with most processed in about five business days though MetLife allows up to 30 days for approval or denial.
MetLife's mobile app allows policy management, claim submission, access to virtual vet support, and viewing of policy documents and health records. The app has ratings of 4.5 stars on the App Store and 4.4 stars on Google Play.
Dental coverage is included for accidents and illnesses, with cleanings covered only with preventive care plans. MetLife pet insurance is available in all 50 states and D.C., with no veterinary exam required for enrollment.
Customer service can be reached by phone, email, fax, live chat, or mail. Policies can be cancelled at any time with written request, with full refunds available within the first 30 days if no claims have been filed.