This overall score is a weighted combination of the features score (70% of the total), value for money score (15%) and price rating (15%).

This scores maximum limits (30%) and cover, limits and exclusions (70%). For example, limits and conditions for vet consultations and emergency care, policy renewal conditions and exclusions and the availability of routine care cover.

The better the score, the better value-for-money based on maximum limits and the quotes we collected.

The fewer the $ signs, the cheaper the policy premium based on the quotes we collected.

The fewer the $ signs, the cheaper the policy premium based on the quotes we collected.

There are four types of cover:

Accident cover: for example for broken bones, spider and snake bites. 

Special events: accidental injuries and some major illnesses.

Illness only: cancer and other illnesses.

Accident and illness Most comprehensive includes accidental injuries, cancer and other illnesses.  

Most policies won't offer new cover to animals over the age of 7 or 8. Older animals that first got cover when they were younger will continue to be covered.

Some insurers lower the benefit percentage for example from 100% of the bill to 80% of the bill and you have to foot the rest. 

If you choose to pay an excess you will pay a lower premium, but you'll pay it if you have a claim.

Percentage of the claim the insurer pays. For example, if your policy has an 80% benefit and you have a $1000 claim, you pay $200 and the insurer pays $800.

Maximum benefit per year. For accident and illness policies the maximum limit is normally combined for accidents and illnesses.

Maximum benefit per year. For accident and illness policies the maximum limit is normally combined for accidents and illnesses.

Policies usually do not cover pre-existing conditions but may allow them on application - check with insurer for details. 

Will the policy cover hereditary or genetic conditions?

Many policies do not cover a condition if it recurs again the next year.

A bilateral or 'whole of body' condition affects body parts of which the pet has at least two, e.g. the knees. If the policy applies an exclusion, the animal will not be covered for a condition in one knee if it was previously affected in another knee.

Some insurer guarantee to allow you to renew the policy - other could reject renewals, for example, after you had a large claim.

Is there an annual sublimit for vet consultation claims?

Paralysis ticks are common on the east coast of Australia and can require intensive emergency treatment.

Is there an annual sublimit for tick paralysis claims?

Is there an annual sublimit for cruciate ligament injury claims? (All policies cover this.)

Is there an annual sublimit for skin condition claims?

Is there an annual sublimit for alternative therapy claims?

Public liability cover - mainly for damage or injury caused by dogs.

Does the policy pay a benefit if your animal is lost due to theft or straying?

Does the policy offer a benefit if you pet is injured by a vehicle such as a car.

How many times a year will the policy cover for swallowing foreign objects?

Does the policy cover allergic reactions (allergic reactions to flees and insect bites are normally excluded)

Common conditions affecting leg joints.

Treatment for illness caused by internal or external parasites.

Does this policy include or offer for an extra fee routine care (also called wellness care or tender loving care)? This is additional cover that pays for things like vaccinations and teeth cleaning.

The cost of putting your pet down, when necessary.

The value of your pet if it has to be put down.