Accident-Only Insurance

What It Covers

Accident-only plans cover injuries resulting from unforeseen events. This includes:

• Broken bones and fractures — from falls, being hit by a car, or rough play
• Cuts and lacerations — wounds requiring stitches or surgical repair
• Toxin ingestion — if your pet eats something poisonous like chocolate, xylitol, or certain plants
• Car accidents — emergency care after being struck by a vehicle
• Bite wounds and abscesses — from fights with other animals
• Foreign object ingestion — surgery to remove swallowed toys, socks, or bones
• Eye injuries — corneal scratches, punctures, or foreign bodies

What It Doesn't Cover

• Illnesses of any kind (cancer, infections, diabetes, allergies)
• Routine and preventive care (vaccinations, annual checkups)
• Pre-existing conditions — anything diagnosed before the policy started
• Hereditary or congenital conditions (hip dysplasia, heart defects)
• Dental disease (though tooth fractures from accidents are often covered)
• Behavioral therapy or training

Typical Costs

Accident-only plans are the most affordable option. Monthly premiums typically range from:

Deductibles usually range from $100–$500 annually, and reimbursement rates are typically 70–90% of covered costs. Most plans have annual coverage limits between $2,500 and $10,000.

Who It's Best For

• Young, healthy pets — lower risk of illness means accident coverage may be sufficient
• Budget-conscious pet parents — protection against large unexpected emergency bills without the higher premiums of comprehensive plans
• Indoor cats — lower accident risk but still vulnerable to falls, toxins, and household hazards
• As a starting point — many pet parents begin with accident-only and upgrade later

Key Things to Watch For

• Waiting periods — most plans have a 1–14 day waiting period before coverage begins. Accidents that happen during this time won't be covered.
• Annual vs per-incident limits — check whether the coverage cap applies per year or per accident. Per-incident limits can leave you exposed if multiple accidents happen in one year.
• Bilateral condition exclusions — if your pet injures one knee and later injures the other, some policies exclude the second injury as bilateral.
• Reimbursement model — most plans reimburse you after you pay the vet. Make sure you can float the upfront cost.
• Breed-specific exclusions — some breeds may have higher premiums or specific accident exclusions.