Is Trupanion Pet Insurance Worth It? Our Review 2025
Our Expert's Review of Trupanion
Trupanion stands out in the US pet insurance market with its sole, comprehensive plan offering a 90% reimbursement rate and no payout limits per year or incident, a rare feature among major competitors like Healthy Paws or Nationwide. This straightforward structure—absent caps even for chronic or costly treatments—makes it highly competitive for owners wary of large vet bills. The policy uses a per-condition lifetime deductible, generally ranging from $0 up to $1,000, customizable to fit most budgets, but lacks a routine or wellness/preventive care package, unlike some rivals. Trupanion particularly suits owners of purebred animals and those seeking protection for young pets against hereditary or congenital issues, offering robust coverage even for high-breed costs. As a NASDAQ-listed insurer (TRUP) with annual revenues around $900 million and over 900,000 enrolled pets, Trupanion demonstrates financial solidity and long-term stability. The company’s Trustpilot score is 4.2/5 based on over 5,400 reviews, signaling broad customer satisfaction. Claims are frequently processed in less than a week, with some clinics enabling direct vet payments in real-time—streamlining reimbursements beyond typical market standards.
- 90% reimbursement on all eligible vet bills
- No annual or per-incident payout limits
- Per-condition lifetime deductible, customizable
- Covers breed-specific, hereditary, and congenital conditions
- Direct payment available with participating vets
- Strong financial stability; publicly traded company
- Fast claim processing, often under one week
- No coverage for wellness or preventive care
- Exam fees excluded unless optional add-on purchased
- No multi-pet discount available
- Waiting periods: 5 days accident, 30 days illness
- Premiums higher for older pets or certain breeds
- Trupanion guarantees
- Trupanion Exclusions
- Trupanion Rates
- Trupanion Assistance
- Customer feedback on Trupanion
- How can I contact Trupanion?
- FAQ
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Trupanion guarantees
Trupanion stands out with its unique single plan for both cats and dogs, providing comprehensive illness and injury coverage with a straightforward 90% reimbursement rate after a flexible per-condition deductible, and no annual or lifetime payout limits.
The absence of wellness and preventive care coverage (like vaccines or regular check-ups) is a notable gap compared to competitors, but Trupanion excels in direct vet bill payment in participating clinics, reducing out-of-pocket expenses for policyholders.
Coverage includes diagnostic testing, surgery, hospitalization, prescription medications, and hereditary/congenital conditions from enrollment, with short 5-day (injury) or 30-day (illness) waiting periods and no age cap for new enrollments.
While the absence of alternative therapies, dental cleanings (prophylactic), and preventive routines can be limiting, the rarity of per-condition deductible options offers more control over premium costs.
Trupanion’s focus remains on helping pet owners manage major unexpected costs rather than routine care, making it ideal for those seeking to minimize large unforeseen veterinary expenditures.
| Guarantee Name | Trupanion Plan (Single Formula) |
|---|---|
| Plan Positioning | Comprehensive, illness & injury cover, no wellness |
| Coverage Type | Accident & illness |
| Animals Covered | Cats and dogs |
| Reimbursement Rate (%) | 90% |
| Annual Reimbursement Limit | Unlimited |
| Deductible | Per-condition, flexible ($0–$1,000) |
| Min & Max Age: cats | Minimum: 8 weeks; no maximum |
| Min & Max Age: dogs | Minimum: 8 weeks; no maximum |
| Health Questionnaire Prerequisite? | Not required |
| Waiting Period (Illness) | 30 days |
| Waiting Period (Accident) | 5 days |
| Lifetime Coverage Once Enrolled? | Yes, as long as premiums paid |
| Regular Vet Consultations | Covered if related to eligible accident/illness |
| Emergency or Specialist Consultations | Covered if related to eligible accident/illness |
| Medications | Prescription drugs covered |
| Hospitalization | Covered |
| Ambulance Fees | Covered |
| Surgery & Anesthesia | Covered |
| Advanced Imaging (MRI, CT, Ultrasound) | Covered |
| Laboratory Tests | Covered |
| Radiation Therapy | Covered |
| Dental Care | Only if due to injury/not for cleanings or maintenance |
| Dental Cleaning | Not covered |
| Wellness/Preventive Care | Not covered (no vaccine, worming, spay/neuter, etc.) |
| Holistic/Alternative Therapies | Not covered |
| Therapeutic Diet | Not covered |
| Geographic Coverage | US, Canada, Puerto Rico |
| Death / Cremation | Not covered |
| Euthanasia | Covered if medically necessary due to covered event |
| Theft/Loss & Search Costs | Not covered |
| Boarding/Kenneling Costs | Not covered |
Good to know
Trupanion pays participating vets directly, reducing upfront costs for policyholders; coverage for hereditary and congenital conditions is included as long as they are not pre-existing; preventive/routine care and exam fees are not included, so routine checkups and vaccinations are out-of-pocket; per-condition lifetime deductible means you only pay once for each new condition; monthly premium depends on pet’s age, breed, and chosen deductible; no coverage for pre-existing conditions or elective procedures.
Trupanion Exclusions
Trupanion maintains a precise list of exclusions similar to most US pet insurers, but stands out by its strict approach to pre-existing conditions, specifically excluding any illness or injury—symptomatic or diagnosed—prior to enrollment or during waiting periods. Congenital and hereditary diseases are covered unless they were apparent before coverage started, differing from some competitors who exclude these conditions outright. Preventive care (vaccinations, spaying/neutering) and elective procedures, regardless of potential health effects, are always excluded. Routine dental cleanings and treatment for retained deciduous teeth are not covered, and coverage is generally limited to events within the US, Canada, and Puerto Rico, excluding treatment elsewhere. Notably, injuries from owner negligence or improper care, as well as injuries related to organized racing or commercial use of the animal, are systematically left out.
| Exclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Medical exclusions | - Pre-existing conditions (illnesses or injuries before enrollment or during waiting period) - Preventive care (vaccinations, flea/tick/heartworm prevention, spaying/neutering) - Elective and cosmetic procedures - Dental cleanings/routine oral care - Retained deciduous teeth treatment - Experimental or investigational treatments - Alternative therapies not prescribed by a vet |
| Conditions based on origin/timing | - Congenital and hereditary disorders apparent or symptomatic before enrollment - Conditions resulting from breeding, whelping, or pregnancy |
| Geographic exclusions | - Medical care received outside the US, Canada, or Puerto Rico |
| Behavioral/owner-related exclusions | - Illness or injury due to owner neglect, abuse, or intentional acts - Injuries from organized racing, coursing, or commercial/professional use of animal |
| Identification/administrative | - Claims received after the policy's allowable submission period - Conditions arising while policy is inactive or lapsed |
- Preventive care (vaccinations, flea/tick/heartworm prevention, spaying/neutering)
- Elective and cosmetic procedures
- Dental cleanings/routine oral care
- Retained deciduous teeth treatment
- Experimental or investigational treatments
- Alternative therapies not prescribed by a vet
- Conditions resulting from breeding, whelping, or pregnancy
- Injuries from organized racing, coursing, or commercial/professional use of animal
- Conditions arising while policy is inactive or lapsed
Trupanion Rates
Overall, Trupanion positions itself as a higher-priced but very comprehensive pet insurance option in the US market. Its offering stands out by providing unlimited annual payouts and simple, single reimbursement levels—often 90%—regardless of the pet’s age or condition, giving strong predictability but at a cost premium versus competitors with lower annual limits or tiered models. Trupanion consistently applies low or no deductibles, but charges higher premiums partly due to its broad, minimally-excluded coverage, and direct vet payments. The digital-first, pure player model does offer smaller administrative savings, but these are counterbalanced by the generosity of benefits included versus legacy insurers. Ultimately, Trupanion is best categorized as expensive but complete, targeting pet owners seeking robust financial protection and straightforward claims processes over budget premiums.
| Trupanion Standard Plan | Trupanion Breeder Support | Trupanion Recovery & Complementary Care | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Young Cat (2-4 yrs) | $38/mo | $45/mo | $12/mo |
| Older Cat (7-8 yrs) | $54/mo | $63/mo | $18/mo |
| Small Breed Dog (2-4 yrs) | $68/mo | $81/mo | $17/mo |
| Large Breed Dog (2-4 yrs) | $89/mo | $106/mo | $23/mo |
| Senior Dog (7-8 yrs) | $120/mo | $140/mo | $34/mo |
Compare multiple pet insurance offers to ensure you’re getting the best coverage at the lowest possible cost for your animal’s specific needs.
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| Trupanion Promo Codes | Details |
|---|---|
| HelloSafe Promo Code | -5% on your quote |
Note: Promo codes are subject to change. For the latest promo codes, visit our comparison of the best pet insurance plans.
How much will I be reimbursed with Trupanion?
| Type of Care | Average Cost (USD) | Trupanion (90% reimbursement, no annual limit) |
|---|---|---|
| Spay/Neuter | $350 | Reimbursed $315 Out-of-pocket: $35 (excluding deductible) |
| Vaccinations | $95 | Reimbursed $85.50 Out-of-pocket: $9.50 (excluding deductible) |
| Accident (e.g. broken leg) | $2,500 | Reimbursed $2,250 Out-of-pocket: $250 (excluding deductible) |
| Major Surgery (e.g. tumor removal) | $4,000 | Reimbursed $3,600 Out-of-pocket: $400 (excluding deductible) |
| Chronic Condition (diagnosis & treatment per year) | $1,200 | Reimbursed $1,080 Out-of-pocket: $120 (excluding deductible) |
Out-of-pocket: $35 (excluding deductible)
Out-of-pocket: $9.50 (excluding deductible)
Out-of-pocket: $250 (excluding deductible)
Out-of-pocket: $400 (excluding deductible)
Out-of-pocket: $120 (excluding deductible)
Trupanion Assistance
Trupanion stands out by offering a direct payment system to veterinarians, relieving pet owners from large upfront payments, which remains rare in the US market.
There is no dedicated telehealth or 24/7 emergency vet support included, potentially leaving policyholders without assistance for urgent medical advice.
A user-friendly mobile app is available, highly rated on both iOS and Android, providing easy claims submission and policy management, but lacks distinct advanced features compared to competitors.
No network of partnered clinics means owners have flexibility but miss out on negotiated rates or specialized provider networks.
International coverage is limited, with reimbursement available outside the US and Canada only for brief trips, excluding extended stays or relocation needs.
| Assistance Trupanion | Available? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Advance payment to vets | ✅ | Trupanion pays vet bills directly to participating clinics. No reimbursement needed by the pet owner if the vet uses the direct pay system. |
| Payment flexibility | ❌ | Monthly subscriptions only. No installment or deferred payment options beyond regular monthly billing. |
| Mobile app | ✅ | App available on iOS (4.8/5) and Android (4.6/5). Enables claims submission, coverage tracking, and support access. UX is functional and reliable. |
| Digital claims processing | ✅ | Claims can be filed via app or online portal. Real-time claim status tracking is included. |
| 24/7 vet emergency or telehealth | ❌ | No teleconsultation or 24/7 emergency line. Owners must arrange emergency care themselves and submit standard claims. |
| Vet/clinic partner network | ❌ | No proprietary network of clinics or vets. Owners can visit any licensed vet, but rates are not negotiated. |
| International coverage | ✅ | US and Canada only. Limited coverage abroad for short vacations. No coverage for long-term stays or moving overseas. |
Customer feedback on Trupanion
| Review Site | Rating and Number of Reviews |
|---|---|
| Trustpilot | 4.2/5 (7,300+ reviews) |
| ConsumerAffairs | 4.1/5 (1,000+ reviews) |
| Google Reviews | 4.3/5 (2,700+ reviews) |
We have analyzed the feedback from the sites listed above. In terms of positives, policyholders who have chosen Trupanion for their pet frequently mention:
- The direct payment to veterinarians: the fact that Trupanion settles claims directly with many vet clinics is greatly appreciated, often minimizing out-of-pocket expenses for pet owners.
- The clear and comprehensive coverage: the transparency and simplicity of the policy regarding what is covered and what is not are often highlighted as reassuring, with many owners stating there are no unpleasant surprises.
- The speedy claims process: many customers praise the quick turnaround times for claims, particularly when handled directly through veterinarians’ offices.
- The responsive customer service: the attentiveness and empathy shown by Trupanion’s support staff during stressful times is noted as a significant benefit by numerous pet parents.
- The lifetime per-condition deductible: pet owners appreciate that the deductible applies per condition for the lifetime of the pet, which can help reduce long-term out-of-pocket expenses for chronic or recurring health issues.
In terms of negatives:
- The monthly premiums are considered high compared to competitors, especially as pets age or according to breed, leading some clients to find the rates prohibitive in the long run.
- The lack of routine care coverage is frequently noted as a drawback, since Trupanion does not reimburse for wellness visits, vaccinations, or preventative care.
- The waiting periods and pre-existing condition exclusions have frustrated some clients, particularly when unexpected issues arise shortly after enrollment.
- The requirement for vet clinics to be set up for direct payment can occasionally cause issues, as not all veterinarians participate, meaning clients must pay upfront and wait for reimbursement.
- The premium increases over time, especially after claims or as the pet ages, catch some customers off guard and create dissatisfaction about cost predictability.
How can I contact Trupanion?
| Trupanion customer service | Details |
|---|---|
| To get a quote or subscribe online | You can use the HelloSafe best pet insurance comparison tool, choose the plan that suits you and click to get a quote. Otherwise, go to the official Trupanion website: www.trupanion.com Customer service by phone: 1-855-727-9079 Online chat available on the website |
| To request and track a reimbursement | Log in to your Trupanion Client Area: https://www.trupanion.com/login Submit your reimbursement request by uploading the vet bill You can also request by email: [email protected] Or by mail: Trupanion, P.O. Box 25947, Seattle, WA 98165 USA Payment method: bank transfer or check Average time observed: between 5 and 7 business days after receipt of the complete file |
| To obtain a certificate of insurance | Access your Trupanion online member area to download the certificate Or contact customer service by phone: 1-855-727-9079 Or send a request to [email protected] |
| To contact assistance | 24/7 telephone assistance: 1-855-727-9079 Contact form available at www.trupanion.com/contact-us Email: [email protected] |
| To cancel my contract | Send your request by email to: [email protected] Or by registered mail to: Trupanion, Attn: Cancellations Dept, P.O. Box 25947, Seattle, WA 98165 USA Include: contract number, ID, signed cancellation letter Notice: at least 30 days You can also call customer service at 1-855-727-9079 for assistance |
Otherwise, go to the official Trupanion website: www.trupanion.com
Customer service by phone: 1-855-727-9079
Online chat available on the website
Submit your reimbursement request by uploading the vet bill
You can also request by email: [email protected]
Or by mail: Trupanion, P.O. Box 25947, Seattle, WA 98165 USA
Payment method: bank transfer or check
Average time observed: between 5 and 7 business days after receipt of the complete file
Or contact customer service by phone: 1-855-727-9079
Or send a request to [email protected]
Contact form available at www.trupanion.com/contact-us
Email: [email protected]
Or by registered mail to: Trupanion, Attn: Cancellations Dept, P.O. Box 25947, Seattle, WA 98165 USA
Include: contract number, ID, signed cancellation letter
Notice: at least 30 days
You can also call customer service at 1-855-727-9079 for assistance
FAQ
Do I have to pay upfront at the vet with Trupanion?
Trupanion partners with many veterinarians in the US through their direct payment system. This means that, at participating clinics, Trupanion can pay your vet directly when you check out, so you only pay your share of the bill. If your vet doesn’t offer this, you’ll pay upfront and submit a claim for reimbursement.
How do I cancel my Trupanion pet insurance policy?
To cancel your Trupanion insurance, you simply need to contact their customer support by phone or email. There is no long-term contract, so you can cancel at any time without penalty—no specific notice period is required. Be sure to have your policy number on hand; Trupanion may ask for written confirmation of your cancellation.
What does Trupanion pet insurance cover?
Trupanion covers unexpected injuries and illnesses for your pet, including diagnostic tests, surgeries, hospital stays, and medications. Preventive care such as vaccines, annual exams, or routine dental is not included. Coverage applies to both cats and dogs, with no payout limits per condition or per year.
Are there any age or breed restrictions when enrolling with Trupanion?
Trupanion covers both cats and dogs but your pet must be under 14 years old when you enroll. They accept all breeds, but pre-existing conditions are excluded. The younger and healthier your pet is at signup, the more comprehensive your coverage will be.
How does Trupanion determine my monthly premium?
Your monthly premium is based on factors like your pet’s age, breed, location, and chosen deductible. Premiums may increase over time as your pet ages or if veterinary costs rise in your area. Trupanion allows you to customize your deductible to find a price that fits your budget.
Do I have to pay upfront at the vet with Trupanion?
Trupanion partners with many veterinarians in the US through their direct payment system. This means that, at participating clinics, Trupanion can pay your vet directly when you check out, so you only pay your share of the bill. If your vet doesn’t offer this, you’ll pay upfront and submit a claim for reimbursement.
How do I cancel my Trupanion pet insurance policy?
To cancel your Trupanion insurance, you simply need to contact their customer support by phone or email. There is no long-term contract, so you can cancel at any time without penalty—no specific notice period is required. Be sure to have your policy number on hand; Trupanion may ask for written confirmation of your cancellation.
What does Trupanion pet insurance cover?
Trupanion covers unexpected injuries and illnesses for your pet, including diagnostic tests, surgeries, hospital stays, and medications. Preventive care such as vaccines, annual exams, or routine dental is not included. Coverage applies to both cats and dogs, with no payout limits per condition or per year.
Are there any age or breed restrictions when enrolling with Trupanion?
Trupanion covers both cats and dogs but your pet must be under 14 years old when you enroll. They accept all breeds, but pre-existing conditions are excluded. The younger and healthier your pet is at signup, the more comprehensive your coverage will be.
How does Trupanion determine my monthly premium?
Your monthly premium is based on factors like your pet’s age, breed, location, and chosen deductible. Premiums may increase over time as your pet ages or if veterinary costs rise in your area. Trupanion allows you to customize your deductible to find a price that fits your budget.
