Chewy Pet Insurance: Our Full Review {{current_year}
Our expert's opinion on Chewy
Chewy’s Complete Accident & Illness Plan, administered by Trupanion and backed by American Pet Insurance Company, delivers a robust accident and illness policy with flexible plan options, 70–90% reimbursement rates, and a single annual deductible—plus exclusive savings and vet telehealth when using Chewy.com. Positioned as a premium offering with broad coverage and competitive wellness perks, Chewy stands out among US providers for seamless claims integration and tailored online shopping benefits, though strong pricing depends on high reimbursement tiers and optional add-ons. This policy is especially recommended for owners of young to middle-aged dogs or cats, including purebreds and those prioritizing vet spending flexibility or online pharmacy use. Financial strength is excellent via APIC’s established pet insurance portfolio and Trupanion’s robust premium base (over $1 billion annually); however, Chewy.com’s Trustpilot score (3.5/5 from 12,659 reviews) is average, partly due to pharmacy and communication critiques—claims are typically resolved in 5–15 business days, ahead of many competitors.
- ✅Comprehensive accident and illness coverage
- ✅70–90% customizable reimbursement, up to unlimited limits
- ✅Annual deductible, once per year
- ✅Additional discounts for purchases on Chewy.com
- ✅Direct vet pay option with Trupanion-partnered clinics
- ✅Access to 24/7 vet telehealth (Connect with a Vet)
- ✅Claims and enrollment fully digital
- ❌No preventive care or routine wellness in base policy
- ❌Strict exclusion of pre-existing conditions
- ❌Requires recent vet exam before enrollment
- ❌Average customer satisfaction (Trustpilot 3.5/5)
- ❌Some pharmacy claim processing complaints
Score- ✅Comprehensive accident and illness coverage
- ✅70–90% customizable reimbursement, up to unlimited limits
- ✅Annual deductible, once per year
- ✅Additional discounts for purchases on Chewy.com
- ✅Direct vet pay option with Trupanion-partnered clinics
- ✅Access to 24/7 vet telehealth (Connect with a Vet)
- ✅Claims and enrollment fully digital
Our expert's opinion on Chewy
- ✅Comprehensive accident and illness coverage
- ✅70–90% customizable reimbursement, up to unlimited limits
- ✅Annual deductible, once per year
- ✅Additional discounts for purchases on Chewy.com
- ✅Direct vet pay option with Trupanion-partnered clinics
- ✅Access to 24/7 vet telehealth (Connect with a Vet)
- ✅Claims and enrollment fully digital
- ❌No preventive care or routine wellness in base policy
- ❌Strict exclusion of pre-existing conditions
- ❌Requires recent vet exam before enrollment
- ❌Average customer satisfaction (Trustpilot 3.5/5)
- ❌Some pharmacy claim processing complaints
Score- ✅Comprehensive accident and illness coverage
- ✅70–90% customizable reimbursement, up to unlimited limits
- ✅Annual deductible, once per year
- ✅Additional discounts for purchases on Chewy.com
- ✅Direct vet pay option with Trupanion-partnered clinics
- ✅Access to 24/7 vet telehealth (Connect with a Vet)
- ✅Claims and enrollment fully digital
Why Trust HelloSafe?
At HelloSafe, our pet insurance experts review the terms and pricing of insurance policies on the market every year to offer you trustworthy, objective analysis. Thanks to this rigorous process, hundreds of thousands of users in the United States trust us each month to help guide them through their most important financial decisions.
Chewy Guarantees
Chewy offers a premium-level Complete Accident & Illness Plan administered by Trupanion, with a variable reimbursement rate (commonly up to 90%) and an annual deductible, ensuring robust financial assistance in the event of unexpected illness or injury. The plan uniquely integrates Chewy.com benefits, such as higher reimbursement on medications and prescription diets purchased via their platform, and grants 24/7 access to teleconsultation through "Connect with a Vet," except in AK and HI.
While coverage is extensive for diagnostics, surgery, hospitalization, and most medications—including alternative therapies with veterinary recommendation—significant gaps remain: preventive care (like vaccines and spay/neuter), routine care, and reproductive expenses are excluded, and coverage is strictly unavailable for pre-existing conditions or illnesses appearing during waiting periods.
The mandatory pre-enrollment veterinary exam and strict observance of waiting periods are noteworthy; additionally, Chewy’s lack of civil liability or funeral expense coverage, as well as limitations for boarding, loss, or theft, may be drawbacks for some owners.
Nonetheless, the plan’s flexibility (including direct pay at participating clinics and options to adjust or downgrade coverage) and Chewy-specific perks make it a standout choice for pet parents seeking comprehensive illness and accident support.
| Name of coverage | Complete Accident & Illness Plan | Essential Accident & Illness Plan | Accident Only Plan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plan positioning | Premium, high reimbursement, Chewy service perks | Streamlined coverage, lower cost | Immediate accident needs, lowest cost |
| Type of coverage | Accidents & illness | Accidents & illness | Accidents only |
| Animals covered | Dogs & cats | Dogs & cats | Dogs & cats |
| Reimbursement rate (%) | Up to 90%, as chosen at sign-up | N.C. | N.C. |
| Annual reimbursement limit | Unlimited for covered expenses | N.C. | N.C. |
| Deductible (annual or per claim) | Annual, level set at sign-up | N.C. | N.C. |
| Age limits for enrollment | N.C. | N.C. | N.C. |
| Pre-enrollment health questionnaire | Mandatory vet exam within past 12 months (except for pets <1 year) | N.C. | N.C. |
| Waiting period (illness) | 14 days | N.C. | N.C. |
| Waiting period (accident) | 5 days | N.C. | N.C. |
| Lifetime coverage once subscribed | ✅ For as long as premiums paid | N.C. | N.C. |
| Vet consultations (regular + emergency) | ✅, both included if related to illness/accident | N.C. | N.C. |
| Medications | ✅, higher reimbursement if bought via Chewy.com | N.C. | N.C. |
| Hospitalization | ✅ | N.C. | N.C. |
| Surgery (including anesthesia) | ✅ | N.C. | N.C. |
| Diagnostic tests (X-ray, MRI, ultrasound, lab tests) | ✅ | N.C. | N.C. |
| Dental care (includes scaling and procedures) | ❌, only illness-related and medically necessary | N.C. | N.C. |
| Preventive care package (vaccines, antiparasitics, spaying/neutering, ID/microchipping) | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Alternative medicine (osteopathy, acupuncture, etc.) | ✅, if vet-prescribed | N.C. | N.C. |
| Travel coverage (countries included, duration) | USA, Puerto Rico, Canada, Australia; see policy | N.C. | N.C. |
| Civil liability | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Euthanasia | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Death & cremation coverage | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Theft or loss of pet + search expenses | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Boarding fees (if owner is hospitalized) | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
Important Information Regarding Coverage
Medications and therapeutic diets are reimbursed at 100% if purchased on Chewy.com (within specific limits and durations), otherwise standard plan rates apply.
“Connect with a Vet” virtual vet access is available 24/7 except in Alaska and Hawaii.
Direct pay to veterinarians is available if the clinic participates with Trupanion; otherwise, claims are reimbursed directly to pet owners.
Waiting periods and exclusions apply for pre-existing conditions and certain incident types.
Downgrade to a less comprehensive plan possible at any time.
Compare options to find the best Chewy pet insurance plan for your needs and budget.
👉 Compare the best pet insurance for your furry friend for free!Start Your Free Comparison Now!Chewy Exclusions
Chewy’s pet insurance, underwritten by Trupanion, contains several comprehensive exclusions that align with industry norms but include some particularly strict provisions.
These include a broad definition of pre-existing conditions—any sign, diagnosis, or recurrence prior to enrollment or within the waiting period—as well as the exclusion of nearly all preventive care, elective, and cosmetic procedures (such as tail docking or declawing).
No coverage is provided for reproduction-related care, boarding, funeral expenses, or routine wellness services, and carefully defined waiting periods apply (5 days for accidents, 14 days for illnesses).
Notably, dental coverage is significantly restricted, and treatments for conditions linked to owner negligence or lack of required veterinary prevention are never covered.
Such rigor in exclusions, especially regarding routine, dental, and pre-existing issues, sets Chewy apart as stricter than some competitors, emphasizing a genuine insurance model over a “maintenance care” solution.
| Exclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Medical exclusions |
|
| Preventive/routine care |
|
| Elective/cosmetic exclusions |
|
| Reproductive exclusions |
|
| Behavioral/boarding/social |
|
| Owner-related/obligations |
|
| Administrative/legal |
|
| Geographic/external events |
|
- Pre-existing conditions (all signs/diagnoses before enrollment or waiting period)
- Conditions arising in waiting period
- Dental disease (except accident or specified situations)
- Chronic/recurrent issues already present
- Vaccinations, spaying/neutering, parasite prevention
- Preventive exams, dental cleanings, screening or routine lab work
- Cosmetic surgeries (tail docking, declawing, ear trimming)
- Microchipping
- Cloning or experimental procedures
- Breeding, pregnancy, or whelping care
- Infertility diagnosis or treatment
- Obedience training, socialization, boarding or kennel costs, non-medical observation, grooming, walking, or pet-sitting
- Negligence, lack of required routine veterinary prevention
- Injuries from racing, organized fighting, or professional use
- Administrative fees, transportation unrelated to medical emergency
- Funeral/cremation fees, search/reward for lost pet, owner’s travel cancellation expenses
- Non-covered beyond specified countries/territories
- Damages from war, nuclear or biological events, rebellion, or similar large-scale incidents
Chewy Prices
Chewy sits in the mid-to-high range of the pet insurance market, reflecting its comprehensive coverage, high reimbursement rate (up to 90%), and relatively low annual deductibles for its most robust plan.
While its premiums are not the lowest available, the extensive list of covered treatments—including special perks for pharmacy and therapeutic foods through Chewy.com—adds significant value for pet owners seeking minimal out-of-pocket costs in major health events.
As a fully digital pure player, Chewy benefits from streamlined online policy management and claims, potentially lowering operational expenses compared to traditional insurers.
Overall, Chewy is best characterized as competitive for those prioritizing broad medical protection and seamless digital experience, rather than bare-bones pricing or limited coverage.
Compare Chewy pet insurance plans and get the right coverage for your pet’s age and breed.
| Complete Accident & Illness | Essential Accident & Illness | Accident Only | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Young cat (2–4 years) | $26–$31/month | $21–$25/month | $11–$13/month |
| Senior cat (7–8 years) | $37–$44/month | $29–$36/month | $17–$20/month |
| Small breed dog (2–4 yr) | $39–$47/month | $28–$37/month | $15–$18/month |
| Senior dog (7–8 years) | $54–$64/month | $40–$52/month | $22–$26/month |
| Large breed dog (2–4 yr) | $51–$63/month | $35–$43/month | $18–$23/month |
| Senior large dog (7–8 yr) | $71–$86/month | $50–$59/month | $26–$30/month |
Chewy Promo Codes
| Chewy Promo Codes | Details |
|---|---|
| HelloSafe Promo Code | -5% on your quote |
Note: Promo codes are subject to change. For the latest offers, check our comparison of the best pet insurance providers.
Chewy Reimbursement Information
With Chewy’s Complete Accident & Illness Plan, after you pay your annual deductible, you are reimbursed for 90% of eligible veterinary expenses, making it much easier to handle costly, unexpected care for your pet.
Knee Ligament Surgery Reimbursement
Knee ligament surgery (cruciate ligament repair)
Total veterinary cost: $2,500
Deductible to subtract: $250 (first claim of the year)
Amount eligible after deductible: $2,500 – $250 = $2,250
90% of that amount reimbursed: $2,250 × 90% = $2,025
👉 You receive a reimbursement of $2,025.
ℹ️ After your deductible is met, all additional covered claims within the policy year are reimbursed at 90% until your annual limit is reached.
Emergency hospitalization for pancreatitis - Reimbursement Example
Total veterinary cost: $1,800
Deductible already met during the policy year
90% reimbursement: $1,800 × 90% = $1,620
👉 You receive a reimbursement of $1,620, with only $180 to pay out of pocket.
ℹ️ Any eligible follow-up treatments during the year will be reimbursed at 90%, provided you have not hit your policy’s annual limit.
Reimbursement Example: Lameness Diagnosis
Diagnostic imaging and outpatient care for unexplained lameness. Total veterinary cost: $700 (exam, x-rays, consultation, medication). Deductible remaining: $0 (already applied earlier in the year). 90% reimbursement: $700 × 90% = $630. 👉👉 You receive a reimbursement of $630, for an actual cost to you of just $70.
ℹ️ Preventive care like vaccines is not covered unless you select an optional wellness add-on.
Chewy Assistance
| Assistance Chewy | Available? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Advance payment | ✅ | Direct payment to selected vets if the veterinarian accepts Trupanion’s direct pay system. |
| Payment facilities | ❌ | N.C. |
| Mobile app | ❌ | N.C. |
| Paperless claims process | ✅ | Claims can be submitted digitally via online portal or by email/mail. |
| Emergency vet service | ✅ | 24/7 support hotline: 844-958-1679, but no guaranteed access to an emergency vet telehealth. |
| Vet/clinic partner network | ❌ | No published partner network; policyholders choose any licensed veterinarian. |
| Coverage abroad | ✅ | Insured in the US, Puerto Rico, Canada, Australia, US/Australian military bases. |
Customer Reviews of Chewy
| Review platform | Rating and number of reviews |
|---|---|
| Trustpilot | 3.5/5 (12,659 reviews) |
We analyzed reviews from the sites listed above. On the positive side, customers who subscribed to Chewy for their pets often mention:
- An attentive and compassionate customer service, with notable gestures such as sympathy cards and assistance after pet loss.
- Fast, efficient auto-shipments and generally reliable delivery of products and medications.
- Good value for pet supplies and accessible pricing compared to some competitors.
- Easy ordering processes and convenient online account management.
On the negative side:
- Issues with delayed or canceled pharmacy orders and critical medications, sometimes causing inconvenience.
- System failures and technical glitches impacting repeated orders and account management.
- A lack of effective escalation for unresolved complaints and communication lapses with support.
- Frustration with promotions advertised that some users could not redeem due to unclear exclusions.
- Occasional packaging issues with large or heavy shipments being difficult to manage.
- Prescription and vet coordination problems leading to delayed treatments or order confusion.
Contacting Chewy
| Chewy Customer Service | 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 | File a claim through the Trupanion insurance portal, by phone at 844-958-1679, by email (Care@Trupanion.com), or by mail to 6100 4th Avenue South, Suite 200, Seattle, WA 98108. You will need to submit a completed claim form and the itemized invoice from your veterinarian. Reimbursement is typically by check or direct deposit; average processing time is 7–14 business days after receipt of required documents. |
| To obtain a certificate of insurance | Contact Trupanion at 844-958-1679 or email Care@Trupanion.com, with your policy details. You may also request by mail to 6100 4th Avenue South, Suite 200, Seattle, WA 98108. State your policy number and specify that you require an official certificate of insurance. |
| To contact assistance | Call the customer support hotline 24/7 at 844-958-1679. Email Care@Trupanion.com for all questions regarding your Chewy insurance policy. Mail: 6100 4th Avenue South, Suite 200, Seattle, WA 98108. |
| To cancel my policy | Call the customer hotline at 844-958-1679, or send a written cancellation request by email (Care@Trupanion.com) or mail (address above). Provide your policy number, effective cancellation date, and your contact information. No notice period required; cancellation is effective upon request, with any eligible premium refunds processed pro-rata. |
You will need to submit a completed claim form and the itemized invoice from your veterinarian.
Reimbursement is typically by check or direct deposit; average processing time is 7–14 business days after receipt of required documents.
You may also request by mail to 6100 4th Avenue South, Suite 200, Seattle, WA 98108.
State your policy number and specify that you require an official certificate of insurance.
Email Care@Trupanion.com for all questions regarding your Chewy insurance policy.
Mail: 6100 4th Avenue South, Suite 200, Seattle, WA 98108.
Provide your policy number, effective cancellation date, and your contact information.
No notice period required; cancellation is effective upon request, with any eligible premium refunds processed pro-rata.
FAQ
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with Chewy?
Most of the time, you will pay your veterinarian directly at the time of service and then file a claim for reimbursement. However, if your vet participates in Trupanion’s direct pay program and agrees to accept payment, Chewy (through Trupanion) can pay the covered portion directly to your vet, reducing or eliminating your upfront out-of-pocket expense.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with Chewy?
You can cancel your Chewy pet insurance policy at any time by calling Trupanion Customer Care at 844-958-1679, or by emailing Care@Trupanion.com. No notice period is required. You will need to provide your policy number and written request. Any eligible refund for unused premium will be paid pro-rata.
What does Chewy pet insurance cover and exclude?
Chewy pet insurance (administered by Trupanion) covers unexpected accidents and illnesses, including diagnostics, surgery, hospitalization, medications, and therapeutic diets. Routine or preventive care (wellness exams, vaccines, spay/neuter), pre-existing conditions, and elective or cosmetic treatments are not covered. Refer to the policy for the complete list of covered and excluded items.
Are there any waiting periods before coverage starts?
Yes, there is a 5-day waiting period for accident coverage and a 14-day waiting period for illnesses beginning from the date your policy starts. Any injuries or illnesses that occur during these waiting periods will not be covered by your insurance. You must also meet the requirement for a recent veterinary exam to activate full coverage.
How do I file a claim and how are reimbursements processed?
You can file a claim through the Trupanion member portal, by email at Care@Trupanion.com, or by mail. Attach the completed claim form and corresponding veterinary invoice. Reimbursements are typically issued by check or direct deposit, with average processing time ranging from 7 to 14 business days, provided all documentation is complete.
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with Chewy?
Most of the time, you will pay your veterinarian directly at the time of service and then file a claim for reimbursement. However, if your vet participates in Trupanion’s direct pay program and agrees to accept payment, Chewy (through Trupanion) can pay the covered portion directly to your vet, reducing or eliminating your upfront out-of-pocket expense.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with Chewy?
You can cancel your Chewy pet insurance policy at any time by calling Trupanion Customer Care at 844-958-1679, or by emailing Care@Trupanion.com. No notice period is required. You will need to provide your policy number and written request. Any eligible refund for unused premium will be paid pro-rata.
What does Chewy pet insurance cover and exclude?
Chewy pet insurance (administered by Trupanion) covers unexpected accidents and illnesses, including diagnostics, surgery, hospitalization, medications, and therapeutic diets. Routine or preventive care (wellness exams, vaccines, spay/neuter), pre-existing conditions, and elective or cosmetic treatments are not covered. Refer to the policy for the complete list of covered and excluded items.
Are there any waiting periods before coverage starts?
Yes, there is a 5-day waiting period for accident coverage and a 14-day waiting period for illnesses beginning from the date your policy starts. Any injuries or illnesses that occur during these waiting periods will not be covered by your insurance. You must also meet the requirement for a recent veterinary exam to activate full coverage.
How do I file a claim and how are reimbursements processed?
You can file a claim through the Trupanion member portal, by email at Care@Trupanion.com, or by mail. Attach the completed claim form and corresponding veterinary invoice. Reimbursements are typically issued by check or direct deposit, with average processing time ranging from 7 to 14 business days, provided all documentation is complete.
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