Is Chewy Pet Insurance Worth It? Full Review 2025
Our Expert's Opinion on Chewy
Chewy’s Complete Accident & Illness pet insurance, underwritten by American Pet Insurance Company and managed by Trupanion Managers USA, stands out in the US market for its highly customizable coverage and its strong focus on unexpected veterinary costs. Offering three core plans—Complete Accident & Illness, Essential Accident & Illness, and Accident Only—Chewy lets owners adjust reimbursement rates and yearly deductibles, with reimbursement up to 90% of actual vet bills (after deductible) and direct pay options at participating vets. There is no annual benefit cap, and the inclusion of 100% reimbursement (on Chewy.com) for medications and prescription diets for up to 180 days is uncommon among US competitors, positioning Chewy as a premium, digitally enabled insurer. The contract is particularly well-matched for owners of young pets, purebreds, or those seeking flexible, generous reimbursement options; it fits both those prioritizing extensive illness/accident protection and pet parents with variable budgets adjusting deductible and payout. Chewy is backed by the solid APIC group, and the Trupanion-managed platform processes claims swiftly, especially when direct payment with vets is used—many reimbursements are made within days. On Trustpilot, Chewy holds a 3.5/5 rating from over 12,600 reviews: exceptional customer care and digital tools are often praised, though pharmacy delays and communications draw some criticism. Overall, Chewy advances a strong technical offer and reliability above mid-market US competitors, especially for tech-savvy and demanding pet owners.
- Up to 90% reimbursement, customizable deductible and payout options
- No annual payout limits or caps
- Direct vet pay available with Trupanion network clinics
- Covers prescription medications and diets 100% if bought on Chewy.com
- Physical/behavioral and alternative therapies included
- Fast claim process, digital management via Chewy.com portal
- 24/7 customer service access and remote vet advice
- No coverage for pre-existing conditions or preventive care
- Mandatory recent vet exam before signup
- Routine dental, vaccines, spay/neuter excluded outside medical necessity
- Some negative feedback on pharmacy and delivery delays
- Trustpilot rating moderate at 3.5/5 despite strong service reputation
- Chewy Guarantees
- Chewy exclusions
- Chewy Pricing
- Chewy Support
- Customer feedback on Chewy
- How can I contact Chewy?
- FAQ
Why trust HelloSafe?
At HelloSafe, our pet insurance expert reviews the policy terms and rates of insurance contracts on the US market every year to deliver reliable and unbiased analysis. Thanks to this rigorous approach, hundreds of thousands of users across the United States trust us each month to guide them through their most important financial decisions.
Chewy Guarantees
Chewy, via Trupanion, offers a highly customizable Complete Accident & Illness plan, standing out for its broad inclusion—covering diagnostics, specialized therapies, diet foods, and direct vet payments—with reimbursed rates and deductibles selectable by the policyholder. Alternative downgraded plans (Essential Accident & Illness, Accident Only) are available for those seeking more limited coverage, all with flexible reimbursement levels and annual deductible structure. A distinctive advantage is reimbursement up to 100% on Chewy.com for certain medicines and diet foods, as well as direct payment to partnered vets, while 24/7 support and digital management ease claims. However, Chewy lacks any preventive, routine care coverage (vaccinations, wellness, routine dental, sterilization), and all pre-existing conditions are strictly excluded. The absence of death, theft, liability, or boarding coverage may also be limiting for owners seeking broader protection.
| Guarantee Name | Complete Accident & Illness Plan | Essential Accident & Illness Plan | Accident Only Plan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Formula positioning | Premium, broadest coverage, customizable | Lower-tier, reduced scope | Basic, accident-only protection |
| Type of coverage | Accidents & illnesses | Accidents & (limited) illnesses | Accidents only |
| Covered animals | Domestic dogs and cats | Dogs and cats | Dogs and cats |
| Reimbursement rate (%) | Customizable (example: 90%, see declaration) | Customizable | Customizable |
| Annual reimbursement cap for vet expenses | Customizable per contract | Customizable | Customizable |
| Deductible (annual or per visit) | Annual deductible, customizable (ex: $250) | Annual, customizable | Annual, customizable |
| Minimum & maximum age to enroll – Dogs | Not specified (puppies | NC | NC |
| Minimum & maximum age to enroll – Cats | Not specified (kittens | NC | NC |
| Health questionnaire before enrollment? | Vet exam required (within prior 12 months) | NC | NC |
| Waiting period for illness | 14 days after enrollment | NC | Not covered |
| Waiting period for accident | 5 days after enrollment | NC | 5 days |
| Lifetime coverage while insured? | Yes, renews as long as premiums paid | Yes | Yes |
| Veterinary consultations (classic, ER, specialist, etc.) | All included if for covered condition | NC | Accident-related only |
| Medications | 100% reimb. on Chewy.com, covered elsewhere | NC | Accident-related only |
| Hospitalization | Covered if medically required | NC | Accident-related only |
| Ambulance costs | Not covered | Not covered | Not covered |
| Surgery, anesthesia | All covered if medically necessary | NC | Accident-related only |
| Imaging (CT, MRI, ultrasound, x-ray) | Covered | NC | Accident-related only |
| Laboratory analysis | Covered | NC | Accident-related only |
| Radiotherapy | Covered if medical necessity proven | NC | Accident-related only |
| Dental (non-preventive) | Only for accidents or illnesses; routine excluded | NC | Accident-related only, routine not covered |
| Scaling/dental cleaning (routine) | Not covered | Not covered | Not covered |
| Preventive package (amount & what it includes) | Not covered | Not covered | Not covered |
| Alternative therapies (osteopathy, acupuncture, etc.) | Included for medical necessity | NC | Accident-related only |
| Therapeutic diet | 100% Chewy.com (≤180 days); 90 days elsewhere | NC | Accident-related only |
| Covered countries/travel | US, Puerto Rico, Canada, Australia (bases) | NC | NC |
| Death / cremation | Not covered | Not covered | Not covered |
| Euthanasia | Only if medically necessary | NC | Accident-related only |
| Theft or loss, search fees | Not covered | Not covered | Not covered |
| Kennel/boarding fees | Not covered | Not covered | Not covered |
Good to know
- Each animal must be insured individually; multi-pet discounts are not mentioned.
- Choice of deductible and reimbursement percentage adjusts premium and out-of-pocket cost; check your own "declaration page."
- Claims for routine preventive care (vaccines, wellness, sterilization, parasite treatment) are always excluded.
- Vet direct-pay available only at participating clinics; elsewhere, owner pays then claims for reimbursement.
- All policy changes (downgrade, transfer, address change) must be reported promptly; only one pricing adjustment per year possible.
- No stated cover for travel emergencies or legal liability.
Chewy exclusions
Among US pet insurance providers, the Chewy Health/Trupanion plan stands out for very clear exclusions mostly focused on pre-existing conditions (including issues occurring during waiting periods), which are strictly enforced and require up-to-date veterinary records.
Unlike some competitors, routine care (wellness, vaccines, antiparasitics, elective procedures like spay/neuter unless medically necessary) is always excluded, and so are any treatments or conditions preventable by vaccine or standard prevention not done as required.
The plan is also particularly strict about excluding any costs related to breeding, pregnancy, and sports/racing injuries, as well as treatments deemed experimental or unapproved.
No reimbursement is granted for administrative, lifestyle, or non-medical services (transportation, grooming, daycare, food/toys not prescribed, etc.), nor in situations of negligence or intentional harm.
Notably, unlike other major US competitors, the contract includes explicit exclusions for costs related to acts of war, natural disaster, or any nuclear incidents, and does not allow plan transfer between animals.
| Exclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Medical-related exclusions | - Any pre-existing condition (including those during waiting period) - Treatments for conditions preventable by vaccine/prevention if not up to date - Routine/wellness care (checkups, vaccinations, deworming, flea/tick/heartworm prevention, elective spay/neuter) - Routine dental scaling, cleaning, elective cosmetic procedures - Reproduction, breeding, pregnancy - Experimental or non-approved treatments - Non-emergency euthanasia |
| Behavioral/responsibility exclusions | - Illness or injury due to owner negligence, deliberate harm, or non-standard activities (racing, risky sports etc.) - Illness/injury from illegal activities or abuse |
| Geographical/external event | - Costs arising from war, insurrection, natural disasters, nuclear contamination - No exclusion for care abroad but all claims subject to US/APIC jurisdiction |
| Administrative/lifestyle exclusions | - Administrative fees - Transport costs - Boarding, daycare or custodial services - Grooming/toenail trims/bathing - Non-therapeutic products/services (food except prescribed veterinary diets, toys etc.) |
| Identification/contractual | - Coverage not transferable to another animal - Duplicate insurance: benefit payout adjusted pro-rata if other insurance involved |
- Treatments for conditions preventable by vaccine/prevention if not up to date
- Routine/wellness care (checkups, vaccinations, deworming, flea/tick/heartworm prevention, elective spay/neuter)
- Routine dental scaling, cleaning, elective cosmetic procedures
- Reproduction, breeding, pregnancy
- Experimental or non-approved treatments
- Non-emergency euthanasia
- Illness/injury from illegal activities or abuse
- No exclusion for care abroad but all claims subject to US/APIC jurisdiction
- Transport costs
- Boarding, daycare or custodial services
- Grooming/toenail trims/bathing
- Non-therapeutic products/services (food except prescribed veterinary diets, toys etc.)
- Duplicate insurance: benefit payout adjusted pro-rata if other insurance involved
Chewy Pricing
Overall, Chewy positions itself in the mid-range segment for pet insurance in the US market, combining digital-only distribution with coverage levels that are robust but not ultra-premium.
The Complete Accident & Illness Plan is among the most comprehensive in the sector, covering major expenses like diagnostics, surgeries, hospitalization, therapies, prescription diets, prosthetics, and direct payment to veterinarians (where available), yet preventive and routine care are excluded as is standard for the category.
Chewy’s model as a pure digital player reduces distribution and administration costs, allowing for notably competitive premiums despite a solid level of coverage and service (including 24/7 support and instant claims at partner clinics), which positions it favorably compared to conventional insurers.
Customizations—such as adjustable deductible and reimbursement rate—allow consumers to tailor both coverage and price, but in its standard configuration (90% reimbursement, $250 deductible), Chewy is usually neither the cheapest nor the most expensive, but offers strong value for mid/high-expectation owners.
In conclusion, Chewy stands as a well-balanced option: competitive for its benefits, especially for those prioritizing seamless digital management and broad accident/illness cover, though not the entry-level choice for those seeking minimal monthly costs.
| Complete Accident & Illness | Essential Accident & Illness | Accident Only | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Young Cat (2-4 years) | $32/mo | $22/mo | $16/mo |
| Senior Cat (7-8 years) | $45/mo | $32/mo | $22/mo |
| Small Dog (2-4 years) | $45/mo | $33/mo | $21/mo |
| Large Dog (2-4 years) | $68/mo | $49/mo | $31/mo |
| Senior Dog (7-8 years) | $83/mo | $59/mo | $38/mo |
To benefit from the most suitable pricing and coverage, compare Chewy's plans and premiums with other insurance providers before subscribing.
👉 Compare the best pet insurance for your furry friend for free!Start Your Free Comparison Now!Chewy promo codes
| Chewy Promo Codes | Details |
|---|---|
| Code promo HelloSafe | -5% on your quote |
Note: Promo codes are subject to change. For the latest promo codes, check our comparison of the best pet insurance providers.
How much will I be reimbursed with Chewy?
| Type of Care | Average Cost (USD) | Chewy Complete Accident & Illness (90% reimbursement, excl. routine care)(ex: $250 annual deductible, only after deductible met) |
|---|---|---|
| Diagnostic Exam (illness/accident) | $120 | Reimbursed $108 Remainder: $12 (excluding deductible) |
| Surgery for Broken Bone | $2,500 | Reimbursed $2,250 Remainder: $250 (excluding deductible) |
| Hospitalization (2 days) | $1,500 | Reimbursed $1,350 Remainder: $150 (excluding deductible) |
| Vaccines (annual, routine) | $90 | Not covered (routine & preventive care excluded) Remainder: $90 |
| Spay/Neuter Surgery (routine) | $350 | Not covered (routine & preventive care excluded) Remainder: $350 |
(ex: $250 annual deductible, only after deductible met)
Remainder: $12 (excluding deductible)
(ex: $250 annual deductible, only after deductible met)
Remainder: $250 (excluding deductible)
(ex: $250 annual deductible, only after deductible met)
Remainder: $150 (excluding deductible)
(ex: $250 annual deductible, only after deductible met)
Remainder: $90
(ex: $250 annual deductible, only after deductible met)
Remainder: $350
Chewy Support
The Chewy insurance, administered by Trupanion for Chewy Health, stands out for its 24/7 assistance and ability to offer direct payment at partnering veterinary clinics, a valuable option that reduces the need for pet owners to advance funds. Online claim management and tracking are streamlined via the Chewy.com member portal, but there is no dedicated Chewy Insurance mobile app, which could be limiting compared to other U.S. players with strong mobile experiences. “Connect with a Vet” tele-advice is included except in Alaska and Hawaii, providing remote triage but not 24/7 veterinary teleconsultations for emergencies. There is no structured network of preferred veterinary partners beyond those who accept Trupanion direct payments, and access to care abroad is confined to select countries, mainly for U.S. military on assignment. Notably absent are payment installment options or a broad international coverage, which could be drawbacks for relocating or traveling policyholders.
| Assistance Chewy | Disponible ? | Détails |
|---|---|---|
| Advance payment | ✅ | Direct payment possible at participating vets via Trupanion’s system. No upfront payment needed if the vet uses Trupanion’s integrated platform. |
| Payment facilities | ❌ | No mention of payment in installments, deferred payments, or related options for contributions or claims. |
| Mobile application | ❌ | No dedicated Chewy Insurance app. Claim and contract management via Chewy.com member portal. No App Store/Google Play rating available. |
| Digitized claim management | ✅ | Claims can be submitted and tracked online via the Chewy.com member portal. No paper forms required unless mailing by choice. |
| Veterinary emergency service | ✅ | Covered at clinics, with direct payment at partner vets. Remote veterinary advice via "Connect with a Vet," but not a 24/7 tele-emergency line. |
| Vet/clinic partner network | ❌ | No formal preferred vet network beyond those who accept Trupanion direct payment. Does not promote a structured U.S. partner clinic system. |
| International coverage | ❌ | Only available for U.S., Puerto Rico, Canada, Australia (including U.S. controlled bases). No coverage for pets residing/staying elsewhere. |
Customer feedback on Chewy
| Review Site | Rating and number of reviews |
|---|---|
| Trustpilot | 3.5/5 (12,657 reviews) |
We analyzed the reviews from the site mentioned above. On the positive side, policyholders who have subscribed to Chewy commonly mention:
- An exceptionally compassionate and proactive customer service: the customer support team is frequently described as fast, effective, and exceeding expectations, with numerous reports of thoughtful gestures such as sending flowers or personalized notes after the loss of a pet.
- An intuitive digital experience: the Chewy.com platform is appreciated for its easy-to-use interface, extensive selection, and competitive pricing.
- Fast and reliable deliveries: most customers receive their orders on schedule, contributing to a smooth user experience.
- Advantageous offers and subscription management: regular promotions, discounts for pet birthdays, and the autoship program are praised for adding convenience and value.
On the negative side:
- A perception of inconsistent issue resolution: some customers report being unable to reach satisfactory solutions or escalate their concerns, especially regarding blocked gift cards and unresolved account issues.
- Recurring problems with subscription management (autoship): shipments reportedly continue even after requests to suspend or modify schedules, causing frustration for customers trying to manage deliveries.
- Significant delays with Chewy’s pharmacy service: late deliveries of medications and insufficient follow-up in urgent veterinary situations are commonly cited as pain points.
- Promotions deemed misleading: several customers express frustration about restricted or unobtainable advertised discounts, leading to a sense of false advertising.
- Cases of orders being arbitrarily canceled or blocked due to anti-fraud procedures: some users report that these procedures are not clearly explained and cause unnecessary complications.
- Occasional packaging and delivery concerns: issues related to bulky or difficult-to-handle packages are sometimes mentioned.
How can I contact Chewy?
| Customer service Chewy | Details |
|---|---|
| To get 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 | 1. Go to the Chewy.com member portal to submit your refund request online, or mail it to: 6100 4th Avenue South, Suite 200, Seattle, WA 98108. 2. Attach the detailed care invoice, the claim form, and if necessary, veterinary supporting documents. 3. For direct billing, go through a Trupanion partner veterinarian (no upfront payment needed). 4. Fast refund after your complete file is received (usually a few business days if everything is compliant). For any questions: Phone 844-958-1679, Email: [email protected] |
| To obtain a certificate of insurance | Log in to your personal space on Chewy.com to download your certificate, or request it from customer service: Phone: 844-958-1679 Email: [email protected] |
| To contact assistance | 24/7 assistance available via: Phone: 844-958-1679 Email: [email protected] Chewy.com member area for online assistance and follow-up. Chat or contact form also available through the website. |
| To cancel my contract | Cancellation at any time by phone (844-958-1679), email ([email protected]) or by mail: 6100 4th Avenue South, Suite 200, Seattle, WA 98108. Provide your contract number, contact details, owner's and pet's name. Delay: Immediate effect upon receipt. Documents to include: proof of identity and policy number if requested. Pro rata refund on the current monthly payment. If canceled within 30 days and no claims paid: full refund of the first premium. |
2. Attach the detailed care invoice, the claim form, and if necessary, veterinary supporting documents.
3. For direct billing, go through a Trupanion partner veterinarian (no upfront payment needed).
4. Fast refund after your complete file is received (usually a few business days if everything is compliant).
For any questions: Phone 844-958-1679, Email: [email protected]
Phone: 844-958-1679
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 844-958-1679
Email: [email protected]
Chewy.com member area for online assistance and follow-up.
Chat or contact form also available through the website.
Provide your contract number, contact details, owner's and pet's name.
Delay: Immediate effect upon receipt.
Documents to include: proof of identity and policy number if requested.
Pro rata refund on the current monthly payment.
If canceled within 30 days and no claims paid: full refund of the first premium.
FAQ
Do I need to pay the vet bill up front with Chewy pet insurance?
With Chewy (Trupanion under Chewy Health), you may not have to pay the full bill up front if your veterinarian is part of the Trupanion direct pay network, as Chewy offers direct payment to participating vets. If your vet is not in the network, you pay first and submit a claim for rapid reimbursement. Always check with your clinic beforehand to see if they accept Chewy/Trupanion direct payment.
How can I cancel my Chewy pet insurance policy?
To cancel your Chewy pet insurance, contact their team by phone, email, fax, or mail at any time. There is no minimum notice required; cancellation is effective immediately or from your chosen date. If you cancel within 30 days and haven't made a claim, you’ll get a full refund of your first premium. No special documents are needed unless requested.
What does Chewy pet insurance cover and exclude?
Chewy’s Complete Accident & Illness Plan covers unexpected accidents and illnesses, including diagnostics, surgeries, hospitalizations, medicines, and dietary food. Preventive care (like vaccines, routine dental, or spaying/neutering), pre-existing conditions, and elective treatments are excluded. Always review policy details for specifics and full list of covered and excluded services.
Can I cover more than one pet under a Chewy insurance policy?
Each pet must be insured under a separate contract. You cannot combine multiple animals under one policy, but you can manage several contracts in your Chewy account. This allows you to tailor coverage and reimbursement rates per animal as needed.
How do I make a claim and how fast are reimbursements processed?
You can submit a claim online through your Chewy member portal or by mail using your invoice and claim form. If your vet accepts direct pay, claims can be processed in real-time with no upfront payment. Otherwise, Chewy aims to process reimbursements quickly, often within a few days after submission. Be sure to provide all necessary documents for prompt payment.
Do I need to pay the vet bill up front with Chewy pet insurance?
With Chewy (Trupanion under Chewy Health), you may not have to pay the full bill up front if your veterinarian is part of the Trupanion direct pay network, as Chewy offers direct payment to participating vets. If your vet is not in the network, you pay first and submit a claim for rapid reimbursement. Always check with your clinic beforehand to see if they accept Chewy/Trupanion direct payment.
How can I cancel my Chewy pet insurance policy?
To cancel your Chewy pet insurance, contact their team by phone, email, fax, or mail at any time. There is no minimum notice required; cancellation is effective immediately or from your chosen date. If you cancel within 30 days and haven't made a claim, you’ll get a full refund of your first premium. No special documents are needed unless requested.
What does Chewy pet insurance cover and exclude?
Chewy’s Complete Accident & Illness Plan covers unexpected accidents and illnesses, including diagnostics, surgeries, hospitalizations, medicines, and dietary food. Preventive care (like vaccines, routine dental, or spaying/neutering), pre-existing conditions, and elective treatments are excluded. Always review policy details for specifics and full list of covered and excluded services.
Can I cover more than one pet under a Chewy insurance policy?
Each pet must be insured under a separate contract. You cannot combine multiple animals under one policy, but you can manage several contracts in your Chewy account. This allows you to tailor coverage and reimbursement rates per animal as needed.
How do I make a claim and how fast are reimbursements processed?
You can submit a claim online through your Chewy member portal or by mail using your invoice and claim form. If your vet accepts direct pay, claims can be processed in real-time with no upfront payment. Otherwise, Chewy aims to process reimbursements quickly, often within a few days after submission. Be sure to provide all necessary documents for prompt payment.
