Metlife Pet Insurance: Everything You Need to Know

It’s a fact: pets are a beloved part of our family, and we want to ensure they stay healthy for as long as possible. However, veterinary bills can add up quickly, especially if your pet requires surgery or other expensive treatments. That’s where pet insurance comes in, providing financial protection against unexpected pet health costs. In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at Metlife Pet Insurance, a leading provider of pet insurance in the United States.

What is Metlife Pet Insurance?

Metlife Pet Insurance (formerly known as PetFirst) is a pet insurance provider that offers coverage for dogs and cats. It was founded in 2004 and has since become one of the largest pet insurance companies in the United States. Metlife Pet Insurance offers a range of coverages, including accident-only plans, accident and illness plans, and wellness plans.

One of the unique features of Metlife Pet Insurance is their focus on preventative care. With their wellness plans, pet owners can receive reimbursement for routine care such as vaccinations, annual exams, and flea and tick prevention. This coverage can help pet owners stay on top of their pet’s health needs and catch any potential health issues early on.

How does Metlife Pet Insurance work?

Metlife Pet Insurance works like most other pet insurance providers. Pet owners choose a plan that fits their budget and their pet’s needs. They then pay a monthly premium that covers their pet’s medical expenses up to a certain amount. If their pet requires veterinary care, they can submit a claim to Metlife Pet Insurance for reimbursement.

Here’s how the process works:

  1. Choose a Plan: Metlife Pet Insurance offers three types of plans, accident-only, accident and illness, and wellness. Choose the plan that fits your budget and your pet’s needs.
  2. Enroll Your Pet: Once you choose a plan, you’ll need to enroll your pet. Metlife Pet Insurance requires a veterinary exam to verify your pet’s health before they can enroll in a plan.
  3. Pay Your Premium: Pay your monthly premium to keep your pet’s coverage active.
  4. Visit the Vet: If your pet requires veterinary care, take them to a licensed veterinarian. Make sure to provide your pet’s insurance information at the time of the visit.
  5. Submit a Claim: After your pet’s visit, submit a claim to Metlife Pet Insurance for reimbursement. Make sure to include all necessary information, including a copy of the veterinary bill.
  6. Receive Reimbursement: Once your claim is processed, you’ll receive reimbursement for covered expenses up to your plan’s limit.

What Does Metlife Pet Insurance Cover?

Metlife Pet Insurance offers three types of plans, each with varying levels of coverage. Here’s what each plan covers:

Accident-Only Plan

An accident-only plan covers veterinary expenses related to accidental injuries, such as broken bones, bite wounds, and lacerations. It does not cover illnesses, routine care, or pre-existing conditions.

Accident and Illness Plan

An accident and illness plan covers veterinary expenses related to both accidents and illnesses. This plan covers a broader range of conditions, including cancer treatments, infections, and chronic conditions. However, pre-existing conditions may not be covered.

Wellness Plan

A wellness plan covers routine care such as vaccinations, annual exams, and preventative care. This plan does not cover accidents or illnesses.

How Much Does Metlife Pet Insurance Cost?

The cost of Metlife Pet Insurance varies depending on several factors, including your pet’s age, breed, and location. Here’s a breakdown of the average cost of each plan:

Plan
Average Monthly Cost
Accident-Only
$9 – $15
Accident and Illness
$25 – $45
Wellness
$20 – $28

It’s important to note that the cost of pet insurance can vary widely depending on several factors. Always request a quote for your specific pet before making a decision.

FAQs

Can I Use Any Veterinarian?

Metlife Pet Insurance allows you to use any licensed veterinarian in the United States or Canada.

What is the Claims Process?

To submit a claim, pet owners can visit Metlife Pet Insurance’s online portal and upload their pet’s medical records and veterinary invoices. Claims are typically processed within 7-10 business days.

Is There a Waiting Period?

Yes, there is a waiting period of 14 days for illness coverage and 48 hours for accident coverage. Wellness coverage begins immediately.

Can I Cancel My Policy?

Yes, pet owners can cancel their policy at any time. However, there may be fees and restrictions associated with canceling a policy.

Is My Pet Covered for Pre-Existing Conditions?

Pre-existing conditions are generally not covered by pet insurance providers, including Metlife Pet Insurance. It’s important to enroll your pet in a plan as early as possible to ensure coverage for any future health issues.

Is Metlife Pet Insurance Worth It?

Deciding whether pet insurance is worth it for your pet depends on your individual circumstances. If you have a young, healthy pet, you may not need extensive coverage. However, if you have an older pet or a pet that has a history of health issues, pet insurance can provide peace of mind and financial protection.

Final Thoughts

Metlife Pet Insurance offers a wide range of coverage options and is a leading provider of pet insurance in the United States. With their focus on preventative care, their wellness plans can help pet owners stay on top of their pet’s health needs and catch any potential health issues early on. While the cost of pet insurance can vary, it’s important to consider the long-term financial protection it can provide for our beloved pets. Be sure to request a quote from Metlife Pet Insurance or other pet insurance providers to find the plan that works best for you and your furry friend!