Award-winning Pet Insurance for your furry family members

Other Frequently Asked Questions

• What is a pre-existing condition?

  A pre-existing condition is:

  • A condition that existed or occurred prior to the commencement date of your first policy period or within any applicable waiting period.
  • A condition that you or your vet were aware of, or a reasonable person in your circumstances would have been aware of.

  This is irrespective of whether the underlying or causative condition was diagnosed at the time.

  Whether it is a pre-existing condition will depend on its nature and experience. Outside of any applicable waiting period, if your Pet has a Temporary Condition that is considered to be a Pre-existing Condition (because it occurred or existed prior to the Commencement Date of the First Policy Period, or during any applicable Waiting Period, but that Condition has not existed, occurred or shown noticeable signs, symptoms or an abnormality in the 18-month period immediately prior to your claim Treatment date), it will no longer be excluded from Cover as a Pre-existing Condition. Chronic Conditions and several other specified Conditions cannot fall within this category. For more information please refer to the relevant Policy Booklet.

• How do I apply to have a pre-existing condition reviewed?

  If your pet has had a temporary condition that was subject to the pre-existing condition exclusion, you can apply to have it reviewed.

  Your vet will need to certify and provide veterinary records verifying that the condition remains a temporary condition and has not existed, occurred or shown noticeable signs, symptoms or an abnormality for a period of 18 months. The pre-existing condition exclusion(s) will not be deemed to have been lifted unless agreed to by us in writing.

  You can download a copy of the Pre-existing Condition Review form here: rspcapetinsurance.org.au/useful-documents

  If your pet has a chronic condition that existed or occurred before the commencement date of your first policy period or during any applicable waiting period, that condition will always be excluded from your policy.

  For more information please refer to the relevant Policy Booklet.

• Is it worth it to have pet insurance?

  Pet insurance can take care of the unexpected expenses that come with the unpredictable lives of cats and dogs. Thankfully, there are a range of different insurance options, from basic policies to comprehensive coverage. That means you can choose one that suits your budget and lifestyle.

• How does pet insurance work?

  Pet insurance covers up to a set percentage of the cost of eligible vet bills when your cat or dog gets sick or is injured. You can choose your level of cover and then make payments — usually monthly — to your provider. When it's time to make a claim, your insurer will cover a portion of the costs.

• What is the average cost of pet insurance per year?

  With so many pet insurance options, the costs can vary depending on which policy you choose, the type of pet you have, it’s age and breed and whether it has been desexed. Get a quote from RSPCA Pet Insurance