The number of pet insurance companies out there is growing rapidly. When choosing the best pet insurance coverage for you and your pet, reading the pet insurance policy is crucial. Each pet insurance policy may vary, especially when covering hereditary and congenital disorders. Doing your homework and understanding each pet insurance policy will lessen the chances of being surprised with a claim denial later on.

Good pet health is extremely important to all pet owners. Pet health problems are either hereditary, congenital, or acquired through other conditions such as injuries. There are a variety of hereditary disorders that range from heart, eye, and blood diseases, endocrine, respiratory, and musculoskeletal disorders. These disorders usually vary but are prevalent in a number of breeds, and can seriously affect your pet’s health. Many pet insurance companies cover them partially, none at all, or entirely. It is important when shopping for pet insurance to read and understand these limitations before signing the dotted line.

Congenital disorders are present at birth; however they may not show signs until later on. During a pet’s development, something occurs and the abnormality is expressed. Some congenital disorders may vary in severity such as epilepsy and zinc responsive dermatosis. They may occur as a result of exposure to toxins or are indicators of other underlying diseases. Often, it may be difficult to tell the difference between the two. Congenital problems may arise due to genetic abnormalities, but in some cases, these genetic defects are hereditary.

Do pet insurance policies cover congenital and hereditary disorders? This option varies from each pet insurance company. Some pet insurance companies do not cover both, some require additional coverage and increased premiums, some severely limit the maximum payout, and some may even cover them both entirely.

It is important to compare pet insurance policies and determine if your pets breed is more prone to one of these disorders. Ultimately, it is a safe bet to have pet insurance coverage for these disorders because they may be prevalent in your dog breed. Better be safe than sorry. Some pet insurance companies cover all diagnostic tests, surgeries, and medications for hereditary and congenital disorders.

Several pet insurance companies who do not fully cover these disorders may have an option for additional coverage. Hip dysplasia is one disorder that some pet insurance companies can cover. Trupanion pet insurance covers hip dysplasia for a small additional cost. It is very expensive to treat and it is important to look into a pet insurance company that will provide you some coverage for it, before it happens.

While some pet insurance providers cover hereditary conditions under circumstances, others may exclude them. It is important to research each pet insurance company’s policies so you know. Ultimately, all pet insurance companies exclude pre-existing conditions in their pet insurance policies. Since congenital disorders occur before birth, by definition, that is pre-existing. The pet insurance companies who do cover congenital disorders take into account that they may not be expressed until later on in the pet’s life. If you were to get pet insurance with congenital and hereditary coverage, and the pet later developed one of those disorders, it would greatly benefit the pet insurance owner by decreasing those costly medical bills.

It is important to consider these options when purchasing pet insurance. Many pet insurance providers advertise that they cover hereditary disorders; however they only cover a certain dollar amount leaving you with the remainder. Although some pet insurance companies advertise coverage, make sure to read the fine print in the pet insurance policy before you purchase. Pet insurance offers pet owners a peace of mind and a method for budgeting those unexpected pet medical needs. It is unfortunate when your pet becomes ill, but having pet insurance will help decrease the costs of vet care. Understanding pet insurance coverage options and what you are entitled to pay is crucial. Keep this information in mind when shopping for pet insurance because you would not want to have this as a reason for getting a pet insurance claim denied.