When we think about veterinarian surgical lights for our dogs and cats, we consider routine testing, vaccines, and treatment expenses for significant diseases or accidents. However, much like us, dental care is a vital aspect of our pet’s general health.
Dental disease may become as severe in dogs and cats as any other disease. Bad dental hygiene can cause infection, tooth loss, and malnutrition when left untreated. Sometimes the infection is so bad the dog’s life is at risk. Many owners delay routine dental cleaning costs and let the condition steadily deteriorate over time, which leads to more expensive treatments.
Pet dentistry insurance isn’t marketed individually but is included in many higher level pet insurance plans.
In most pet insurance situations, owners pay a monthly charge for their yearly premium. They are compensated a pre-determined percentage of the vet’s fees up to a defined amount (defined benefit limit) per year. The higher this limit, the higher the premium.
Cat insurance or dog insurance will not cover pre-existing conditions and will not cover the cost of aesthetic operations, only those considered being medically essential for your pet’s health will be covered. Pre-existing conditions refer to any health problems found before the insurance coverage for your pet comes into force. It might be associated with a disease or a lost tooth during playtime.
This means the earlier you take out insurance the better.
Also, note that the expense of dental procedures is not covered in all insurance policies, and not all treatments are covered, so review each policy’s specifics to make sure you get the correct option.
Most insurance companies provide extra coverage for your cats or dogs through pet wellness programs, which you will pay extra for. On the flipside, some insurance companies may have coverage restrictions dependent on the age of your pet.
It is a good idea for pet parents to take out pet insurance during the early years, before their pets develop dental or other health problems that may need costly treatments, medicines, or veterinary visits over their lifespan.