Trupanion pet insurance received a 2.5 out of 5 stars rating in a recent analysis. The company's direct payment system to veterinarians stands out as a key feature. If a veterinarian uses Trupanion's VetDirect Pay software, claims can be submitted directly from the office, eliminating the need for pet owners to pay upfront and wait for reimbursement. Other insurers that offer direct payments typically require additional forms.
The analysis found Trupanion's average rates were significantly higher than the industry average. This negatively impacted its rating. The company also requires add-ons for certain coverage types, which increases overall costs.
Trupanion offers several benefits. It provides direct vet payments and has no special waiting periods for conditions like cruciate ligament problems. Deductible options range from $0 to $1,000. The policy covers prescription supplements and prescription food at 50%. A rider is available for breeding-related illnesses and injuries.
Drawbacks include high average rates and the absence of a multi-pet discount. The company does not offer a wellness plan for routine care costs. Vet exam fees are not covered.
The basic policy provides unlimited annual coverage with a 90% reimbursement rate. Accident coverage has a 5-day waiting period in most states, while illness coverage has a 30-day waiting period. There is no special waiting period. Policies can be purchased for pets up to 14 years old, with no minimum age requirement.
Trupanion's accident and illness policy covers hereditary and congenital conditions, cancer, diagnostics like X-rays and CT scans, dental accidents and illnesses, prescription drugs, and prescription food and supplements. It does not cover preexisting conditions and does not offer exceptions for curable conditions. A 24/7 telehealth line is not available, though the company provides a resource center for pet care tips.
Exclusions include vet exam fees, rehabilitative and behavioral therapies unless an add-on is purchased, cremation or burial expenses unless a package is bought, anal gland expression, illnesses from reckless activity, breeding-related issues unless a rider is purchased, racing injuries, elective procedures like microchipping, and boarding. Preventive services such as wellness exams, vaccines, and routine tests are not covered due to the lack of a wellness plan.
Coverage adjustments are permitted. Within the first 30 days, policyholders can increase their deductible or add the Recovery and Complementary Care rider. The Breeding rider or Pet Owner Assistance package can be added anytime. Deductible decreases or rider removals are also allowed within the first 30 days, with rider or package removal possible anytime.
The average monthly premium for unlimited coverage is $258.64, placing Trupanion among the most expensive insurers reviewed. No multi-pet discount is offered.
The direct payment feature requires veterinarians to participate in VetDirect Pay. A tool on Trupanion's website helps locate participating vets. For non-participating vets, claims can be submitted online, by email to [email protected], or by fax to 866-405-4536, requiring an itemized invoice. Claims must be submitted within 90 days of treatment. Reimbursements for direct claims are processed within 24 hours for 70% of cases, while VetDirect Pay offers immediate payment.
Trupanion's mobile app is no longer available; members use an online portal for claims. Dental care is covered if a vet examines the pet's teeth annually and cleaning is performed as advised. Neutering is only covered if medically necessary due to injury or illness. Vaccines are not covered as they are considered routine care.
Policies are available in all 50 states, with claims accepted from licensed vets in the U.S., its territories, Puerto Rico, and Canada. No vet exam is required for enrollment, but annual dental cleanings are needed for dental illness coverage. Customer service is available 24/7 by phone at 1-888-733-2685 or online chat. Cancellation requires contacting customer care with the policy number; returning later resets waiting periods and preexisting condition assessments.