Is Aetna Pet Insurance Worth It? Review 2025
Our Expert's Opinion on Aetna
Aetna’s pet insurance offering, underwritten by Pets Best (part of American Pet Insurance Company), is recognized for its flexible, highly customizable coverage structure; pet owners can select annual limits (from $2,500 to unlimited), annual deductible ($50–$1,000), and reimbursement rates (70%, 80%, or 90%). This puts Aetna in direct competition with US leaders Trupanion and Nationwide, but its ability to tailor budget and coverage is a major strength, especially at mid-market pricing. Optional packages—such as coverage for exam fees, prescription medication, and rehabilitative therapies—let clients personalize policies to match their pets’ medical needs, while clear exclusions and short waiting periods for illness (14 days) and accidents (3 days) align with industry standards. The annual premium does not increase due to individual claim history, which is highly favorable for chronic cases.
Aetna’s contract is especially well-suited for owners of younger or healthy adult dogs and cats looking for tailored protection and budget control, mixed-breed or purebred, including those with breed-specific risks. Its broad annual limit options and low-deductible possibilities suit both value-focused clients and those seeking robust, nearly uncapped coverage.
Owned by CVS Health, Aetna is a major US insurer with strong market stability (group revenue in tens of billions) and longstanding experience. No Trustpilot score is available for Aetna Pet Insurance specifically, but Pets Best (the underwriting brand) is recognized for a streamlined, mostly digital claims process and typical reimbursement times averaging 5–15 business days, consistent with digital-first market players.
- ✅Highly customizable annual limits, deductible, and reimbursement rates
- ✅Option to add exam fees, prescriptions, rehab with supplemental packages
- ✅Annual premiums unaffected by pet's medical claims history
- ✅Quick waiting periods: 3 days for accidents, 14 days for illness
- ✅Covers most unexpected illnesses and injuries
- ✅Unlimited annual limits available for maximum protection
- ✅Digital claims submission and fast typical payout (5–15 days)
- ❌No preventive or routine care (vaccines, annual exams) covered by default
- ❌Pre-existing conditions and some dental exclusions are strict
- ❌Cruciate ligament waiting period of 6 months
- ❌Supplemental benefits increase total cost if added
- ❌No published Trustpilot score for Aetna-specific pet insurance
- ✅Highly customizable annual limits, deductible, and reimbursement rates
- ✅Option to add exam fees, prescriptions, rehab with supplemental packages
- ✅Annual premiums unaffected by pet's medical claims history
- ✅Quick waiting periods: 3 days for accidents, 14 days for illness
- ✅Covers most unexpected illnesses and injuries
- ✅Unlimited annual limits available for maximum protection
- ✅Digital claims submission and fast typical payout (5–15 days)
Our Expert's Opinion on Aetna
Score- ✅Highly customizable annual limits, deductible, and reimbursement rates
- ✅Option to add exam fees, prescriptions, rehab with supplemental packages
- ✅Annual premiums unaffected by pet's medical claims history
- ✅Quick waiting periods: 3 days for accidents, 14 days for illness
- ✅Covers most unexpected illnesses and injuries
- ✅Unlimited annual limits available for maximum protection
- ✅Digital claims submission and fast typical payout (5–15 days)
- ❌No preventive or routine care (vaccines, annual exams) covered by default
- ❌Pre-existing conditions and some dental exclusions are strict
- ❌Cruciate ligament waiting period of 6 months
- ❌Supplemental benefits increase total cost if added
- ❌No published Trustpilot score for Aetna-specific pet insurance
- ✅Highly customizable annual limits, deductible, and reimbursement rates
- ✅Option to add exam fees, prescriptions, rehab with supplemental packages
- ✅Annual premiums unaffected by pet's medical claims history
- ✅Quick waiting periods: 3 days for accidents, 14 days for illness
- ✅Covers most unexpected illnesses and injuries
- ✅Unlimited annual limits available for maximum protection
- ✅Digital claims submission and fast typical payout (5–15 days)
- Aetna Guarantees
- Aetna exclusions
- Aetna rates
- Aetna Assistance
- Customer feedback on Aetna
- How to contact Aetna?
- FAQ
Why trust HelloSafe?
At HelloSafe, our pet insurance expert reviews the terms and pricing of insurance policies available on the US market each year to deliver you a reliable and impartial analysis. Thanks to this rigorous approach, hundreds of thousands of users in the US trust us every month to guide them through their most important financial decisions.
Aetna Guarantees
Aetna does not offer pet insurance but provides a range of health-related discounts for its human members, including wellness, vision, and hearing services; importantly, these are not insurance policies but discount programs with no reimbursement features, no annual limits, and no formal claims process.
Pets Best, often associated via Aetna’s partnerships, offers highly customizable pet insurance, letting owners select annual policy limits (from $2,500 to unlimited), reimbursement rates (70–90%), and deductibles ($50–$1,000), but wellness and preventive care are only available as paid supplements.
The policy stands out for its flexibility (choice of reimbursement, deductible, and optional exam/therapy/drug benefits), coverage for both accidents and illnesses (dogs and cats), and the option to add therapy/rehab and medication reimbursement.
However, preventive care (vaccines, wellness, dewormers), elective/cosmetic procedures, and routine dental cleanings are always excluded unless specifically purchased as add-ons, and there are strict dental coverage requirements.
Aetna distinguishes itself by enabling group members to access discounted pet coverage but does not itself underwrite or pay pet insurance benefits; the real atout for pet owners is flexibility, but the lack of included preventive care and relatively strict exclusions are notable gaps.
| Guarantee/Feature | Pets Best Coverage (via Aetna’s partners) |
|---|---|
| Positioning | Highly customizable, à la carte annual limit/deductible/co-insurance |
| Type of coverage | Accident & illness (excludes wellness unless add-on) |
| Covered animals | Dogs and cats |
| Reimbursement rate (%) | 70%, 80%, or 90% (selected by policyholder) |
| Annual vet care claim cap | $2,500, $5,000, $10,000, or no annual limit |
| Deductible | Annual, $50–$1,000 (selected at enrollment) |
| Age (min-max) at enrollment – Dogs | NC (not specified); most U.S. insurers: 7 weeks min, no max for accident plans |
| Age (min-max) at enrollment – Cats | NC (not specified) |
| Health questionnaire needed? | NC |
| Waiting period (illness) | 14 days |
| Waiting period (accident) | 3 days |
| Lifetime renewal (once accepted) | ✅ (policy automatically renews if premiums paid) |
| Vet consultations (incl. emergency) | ✅ (exam fees only with paid supplement) |
| Prescription drugs | ✅ (only with paid supplement; limited formulary) |
| Hospitalization | ✅ |
| Ambulance fees | NC |
| Surgery/anesthesia | ✅ |
| Imaging (Scans, MRI, Ultrasound) | ✅ |
| Lab work/diagnostics | ✅ |
| Radiotherapy | NC |
| Dental (illness/injury) | Strict conditions: only for certain teeth/injuries; preventive/routine cleanings excluded |
| Tartar removal/dental cleaning | ❌ (excluded except for eligible injury/illness procedures) |
| Wellness/preventive care fiscal credit | ❌ (not included by default; see paid package options) |
| Alternative therapies (chiro/acu/acup) | ✅ (only with supplement & for eligible conditions) |
| Therapeutic food | ❌ |
| Countries covered/travel | USA, Canada, US territories/bases |
| Death/cremation benefits | ❌ (excluded) |
| Euthanasia | ❌ (excluded unless medically necessary and related to a covered condition) |
| Theft/loss/search assistance | ❌ |
| Boarding/grooming/kennel fees | ❌ |
Important information
Waiting periods are reduced/waived if verified by a participating vet before purchase, and crucial dental (periodontal) coverage requires proof of prior cleanings. Supplemental benefits (exam fees, prescriptions, rehab) must be selected and paid for at enrollment—otherwise, they are not covered.
Compare offerings and request multiple quotes to ensure you get the best value and optimal protection for your pet’s needs.
👉 Compare the best pet insurance for your furry friend for free!Start Your Free Comparison Now!Aetna exclusions
Aetna’s pet-related offering provides wellness discounts rather than insurance, which means there is no formal insurance policy, coverage, or reimbursement for veterinary emergencies or illnesses. Discounts offered are not insurance benefits and members pay the discounted price directly to third-party providers. The vendor network is subject to change, and Aetna or CVS Health are not responsible for provider quality or services. Participation in the program does not guarantee reimbursement or any financial protection, and some discounts may not be available in certain states. Members should always verify their health plan for overlapping or superior terms.
| Exclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Insurance Coverage | - No claim reimbursement for veterinary care - No direct payment to providers for pet health services - Discounts are not insurance or insured benefits |
| Geographic/Regulatory | - Some discounts/perks unavailable to NY policyholders - Discount availability subject to provider participation and may change without notice |
| Provider/Network Limitations | - Aetna is not responsible for provider actions, service quality or pricing - Providers are independent; network can change or be withdrawn at any time |
| Scope of Services | - Discounts do not apply to all veterinary, health, or wellness services - Non-covered items may include products/services not listed in discount categories |
| Financial Exclusions | - Members are responsible for paying the full (discounted) price for services - No compensation for denied services, unsatisfactory outcomes or emergencies |
- No direct payment to providers for pet health services
- Discounts are not insurance or insured benefits
- Discount availability subject to provider participation and may change without notice
- Providers are independent; network can change or be withdrawn at any time
- Non-covered items may include products/services not listed in discount categories
- No compensation for denied services, unsatisfactory outcomes or emergencies
Aetna rates
Aetna positions itself as an economical but limited player in the pet insurance segment. The offers rely mainly on discount programs and reduced rates for health-related services rather than traditional insurance benefits, which keeps monthly costs well below those of established full-service pet insurers.
This digital-first, discount-oriented approach allows for significant cost savings, but coverage is meaningfully more constrained, with no true reimbursement of claims for veterinary care, and out-of-pocket risk remains with the owner.
Compared to competitors who offer comprehensive accident/illness reimbursement—with higher premiums justified by broad coverage and lower deductibles—Aetna appeals mainly to cost-sensitive owners who prioritize everyday savings on wellness and routine care.
For those needing robust, claim-based medical coverage, Aetna may fall short, but the value proposition is strong for basic financial relief on preventive services.
To make sure you pay the lowest price for pet health solutions, don't hesitate to compare all available offers tailored to your pet’s age and breed.
| Aetna Discount Program | Standard Pet Insurer (for comparison) | |
|---|---|---|
| Chat young (2–4 yrs) | $10‒$15/mo | $28/mo |
| Chat senior (7–8 yrs) | $15‒$18/mo | $38/mo |
| Small dog (2–4 yrs) | $13‒$18/mo | $35/mo |
| Large dog (2–4 yrs) | $18‒$24/mo | $45/mo |
| Small dog senior (7–8 yrs) | $18‒$25/mo | $55/mo |
| Large dog senior (7–8 yrs) | $24‒$32/mo | $66/mo |
Aetna promo codes
| Aetna Promo Codes | Details |
|---|---|
| Code HelloSafe | -5% on your quote |
How much will I be reimbursed with Aetna?
When you choose an animal insurance plan with Aetna (Pets Best), you receive reimbursement for unexpected veterinary costs (accident or illness) based on your selected formula: annual benefit limit, deductible, and co-insurance rate. With the highest level (No annual limit, $50 deductible, reimbursement at 90%), your out-of-pocket costs are minimized—even during expensive emergencies.
Informations importantes
Example 1: Emergency surgery for swallowed foreign object
Total vet bill: $2,800 (includes consultation, X-ray, anesthesia, surgery, hospitalization, follow-ups)
Annual deductible: $50 (first expense of the insurance year)
Amount eligible for reimbursement after deductible: $2,800 – $50 = $2,750
Reimbursed at 90%: $2,750 × 90% = $2,475
👉 You are reimbursed $2,475 by Aetna, so your out-of-pocket cost is only $325 instead of the full $2,800.
ℹ️ The deductible is applied only once per year. Every subsequent reimbursement will be calculated without subtracting the deductible, as long as you stay within your policy year.
Informations importantes
Example 2: Chronic allergy flare-up (consultation, tests, medication)
Total vet bill: $350 (specialist exam $90 + allergy panel $160 + medication $100)
Annual deductible remaining: $0 (already used above)
Amount eligible for reimbursement: $350
Reimbursed at 90%: $350 × 90% = $315
👉 You are reimbursed $315, paying just $35 out of pocket for your pet’s continuing allergy care.
ℹ️ Once the annual deductible is reached, it does not reduce future reimbursements until your policy renews.
Informations importantes
Example 3: Traumatic dental fracture (canine tooth extraction)
Total vet bill: $950 (dental X-rays, specialist surgical extraction, medications)
Annual deductible remaining: $0 (already used above)
Amount eligible for reimbursement: $950
Reimbursed at 90%: $950 × 90% = $855
👉 You receive $855 back from Aetna, so you’ll pay only $95 for a high-cost dental emergency.
ℹ️ Dental injuries (such as broken teeth due to accident) are covered if your pet had a recent dental cleaning and there was no pre-existing dental disease. Routine dental cleanings are not covered.
With Aetna’s highest plan, even large and unexpected veterinary expenses are mostly reimbursed, making top-tier pet insurance a smart investment for your peace of mind.
Aetna Assistance
Aetna does not appear to provide direct assistance or insurance services for pet owners; its offering is limited to member discounts on human health and wellness products, with no features specifically designed for companion animals. Aetna’s assistance framework lacks industry-standard pet-specific support, such as advance payment systems for veterinary bills, veterinary emergency support, or a teleconsultation service dedicated to pets. No veterinary network, dedicated pet insurance app, or digital reimbursement process is in place for animal care. There is also no coverage or assistance available for pets abroad or facilitation for pet healthcare payments. Overall, essential components valued by U.S. pet owners, including 24/7 veterinary support and pet-focused digital tools, are missing.
| Assistance Aetna | Available? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Advance payment | ❌ | Not offered; Aetna does not propose any Payvet, Petcard, or Carecredit system for pets. |
| Payment facilities | ❌ | No option for staggered payments for pet services or insurance detected. |
| Mobile application | ❌ | No dedicated pet insurance or vet assistance app; the Aetna Health app is for humans. |
| Digital claims/reimbursement management | ❌ | No dedicated pet claim process; no paperless reimbursement for animal healthcare. |
| Veterinary emergency support | ❌ | No 24/7 vet hotline or teleconsultation service provided for pets. |
| Clinical/veterinary partner network | ❌ | No network of partner clinics or veterinarians for pet owners. |
| Foreign coverage | ❌ | No insurance or reimbursement for pet care abroad; only human-focused benefits present. |
Customer feedback on Aetna
| Review site | Score and number of reviews |
|---|---|
| No relevant review platform | No reviews with over 100 ratings available for Aetna pet insurance |
We have analyzed the available feedback and sources. In terms of positive aspects, policyholders who have enrolled in Aetna's pet coverage often mention:
- A broad selection of health and wellness discounts: the offering of discounts on wellness services (weight management, fitness, vision, hearing) is seen as a valued perk.
- The ability to access discounts for family members as well: coverage typically extends these savings to the insured's household.
- Ease of access and use: services and discounts are presented as easy to obtain by showing the Aetna ID or logging into the member website.
On the negative side:
- The discounts are not considered insurance: customers underline that these are reduced prices, not reimbursement benefits for veterinary expenses.
- There is no coverage for actual veterinary bills or animal health claims: users often expect pet insurance to provide direct financial support for pet health expenses.
- Some discounts or perks may not be available to all policyholders, particularly in certain states.
- Third-party service providers sometimes lead to confusion regarding what is included and who is responsible for service quality, as Aetna is not accountable for vendor-offered benefits.
How to contact Aetna?
| Service client Aetna | Détails |
|---|---|
| To obtain a quote or subscribe online | You can use the HelloSafe pet insurance comparison tool, choose the plan that suits you, and click to get a quote. |
| To request and track a reimbursement | Submit your claim through the Aetna member website or app by completing the claims form and attaching any necessary supporting documents (such as itemized invoices and proof of payment). You can also mail claims to: Aetna, P.O. Box 981106, El Paso, TX 79998-1106. For assistance, call customer service at 1-800-872-3862 (number may vary by plan/card). Reimbursements are generally made by check or direct deposit, typically within 10-15 business days after receipt of complete documentation. |
| To obtain a certificate of insurance | Log in to your member account on the Aetna website or app to download or request your insurance certificate. If needed, you can call customer service at 1-800-872-3862 to request a copy, or mail your request to Aetna, P.O. Box 981106, El Paso, TX 79998-1106. |
| To contact assistance | Call the Aetna Member Services line at 1-800-872-3862 for general inquiries or support. You can also send mail to Aetna, P.O. Box 981106, El Paso, TX 79998-1106, or sign in to your secure member portal for chat/email assistance. For specific programs like hearing care discounts, call Hearing Care Solutions at 1-866-344-7756 or Amplifon at 1-877-301-0840. |
| To cancel my contract | You can cancel your Aetna plan at any time without penalty. Notify Aetna by calling customer service at 1-800-872-3862, or by sending a written cancellation notice with your member details to Aetna, P.O. Box 981106, El Paso, TX 79998-1106. No advance notice or documents are usually required, but include your name, member ID, and requested end date. Coverage will usually terminate at the end of the current billing cycle unless otherwise indicated. Confirm final details with a representative. |
FAQ
Do I need to pay veterinary bills up front with Aetna pet insurance?
Aetna does not provide traditional pet insurance policies, but may offer pet-related wellness discounts through certain member benefit programs. With these discount programs, you pay the discounted rate directly to participating providers at the time of service. There is no advance of costs or third-party payment system—members are responsible for paying all charges to the provider.
How do I cancel my Aetna pet insurance contract?
Since Aetna does not directly offer standalone pet insurance coverage, there is no specific contract to cancel. If you are using a pet discount benefit via your Aetna plan, you can simply stop using the service. If you have an insurance or wellness add-on through an employer group, contact Aetna customer service or your HR department to confirm termination and required steps.
Does Aetna pet insurance cover routine checkups and preventive care?
Aetna’s pet-related benefits are typically limited to discount programs, not insurance. As such, they do not reimburse for routine exams or preventive care, but may provide discounts on select wellness services depending on the participating provider. Always check your member benefits for eligible services and savings before your appointment.
Are there waiting periods or exclusions for pre-existing conditions with Aetna pet coverage?
Traditional insurance concepts like waiting periods and pre-existing condition exclusions do not apply to Aetna’s discount programs. If you participate in a pet insurance policy administered or accessed via Aetna, refer to your specific insurance provider’s terms for details about exclusions and waiting periods. For most discount programs, there are no exclusions based on condition or pet’s age.
How do I access pet-related discounts with my Aetna membership?
If your Aetna health plan includes pet wellness or discount benefits, log into your Aetna member portal to see available offers. You may need to show your member ID card at participating providers or use a code online to receive the discount. Be sure to review details for each offer, as terms and eligibility can vary depending on your plan and location.
Do I need to pay veterinary bills up front with Aetna pet insurance?
Aetna does not provide traditional pet insurance policies, but may offer pet-related wellness discounts through certain member benefit programs. With these discount programs, you pay the discounted rate directly to participating providers at the time of service. There is no advance of costs or third-party payment system—members are responsible for paying all charges to the provider.
How do I cancel my Aetna pet insurance contract?
Since Aetna does not directly offer standalone pet insurance coverage, there is no specific contract to cancel. If you are using a pet discount benefit via your Aetna plan, you can simply stop using the service. If you have an insurance or wellness add-on through an employer group, contact Aetna customer service or your HR department to confirm termination and required steps.
Does Aetna pet insurance cover routine checkups and preventive care?
Aetna’s pet-related benefits are typically limited to discount programs, not insurance. As such, they do not reimburse for routine exams or preventive care, but may provide discounts on select wellness services depending on the participating provider. Always check your member benefits for eligible services and savings before your appointment.
Are there waiting periods or exclusions for pre-existing conditions with Aetna pet coverage?
Traditional insurance concepts like waiting periods and pre-existing condition exclusions do not apply to Aetna’s discount programs. If you participate in a pet insurance policy administered or accessed via Aetna, refer to your specific insurance provider’s terms for details about exclusions and waiting periods. For most discount programs, there are no exclusions based on condition or pet’s age.
How do I access pet-related discounts with my Aetna membership?
If your Aetna health plan includes pet wellness or discount benefits, log into your Aetna member portal to see available offers. You may need to show your member ID card at participating providers or use a code online to receive the discount. Be sure to review details for each offer, as terms and eligibility can vary depending on your plan and location.
