The Best Pet Insurance in California in 2025
Pet insurance policies start at $24 per month for dogs and $11 for cats.
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Edited byNick Versaw
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Nick Versaw leads Compare.com's editorial department, where he and his team specialize in crafting helpful, easy-to-understand content about car insurance and other related topics. With nearly a decade of experience writing and editing insurance and personal finance articles, his work has helped readers discover substantial savings on necessary expenses, including insurance, transportation, health care, and more. As an award-winning writer, Nick has seen his work published in countless renowned publications, such as the Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, and U.S. News & World Report. He graduated with Latin honors from Virginia Commonwealth University, where he earned his Bachelor's Degree in Digital Journalism.
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Reviewed byJohn Leach
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John LeachLicensed Insurance Agent
John Leach is a licensed insurance agent who reviews and fact-checks articles for Compare.com. John has several years of experience reviewing and editing various insurance topics, and he also holds a valid personal lines producer license from the California Department of Insurance (NPN #20461358).
He’s also an alumnus of the University of California, Santa Barbara, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in linguistics.
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In This Article
California pet owners have excellent options when choosing coverage for their furry family members. Our top picks include Spot for dogs and Pets Best for cats. Both companies offer competitive rates and strong, flexible coverage options.
That said, getting the right coverage for your pet isn’t always easy. That’s especially true in California, where veterinary costs have increased more than 60% over the last decade, according to the Los Angeles Times.[1]
The current average pet insurance policy runs $46 for dogs and $23 for cats, according to our data. But rates vary based on your pet’s breed, its age, your location, and the coverage options you select.
Let’s explore everything you need to know about protecting your pet with the right insurance policy.
What You Need to Know About Pet Insurance in California
Annual pet insurance costs run $552 for dogs and $276 for cats.
Spot and ASPCA are two of California’s cheapest pet insurers.
New state law requires clearer policy disclosures as of January 2025.
Compare Pet Insurance Companies in California
We analyzed coverage options, pricing, and policy features from California’s top pet insurers. The table below highlights how they compare across several key metrics, including average premiums, reimbursement rates, and coverage for pre-existing conditions, according to our research.
 |  |  |  |  |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Avg. quote, dogs Prices based on average across all available dog breeds and locations $24/mo* | Avg. quote, dogs Prices based on average across all available dog breeds and locations $32/mo* | Avg. quote, dogs Prices based on average across all available dog breeds and locations $40/mo* | Avg. quote, dogs Prices based on average across all available dog breeds and locations $38/mo* | Avg. quote, dogs Prices based on average across all available dog breeds and locations $46/mo* |
Avg. quote, cats Prices based on average across all available cat breeds and locations $11/mo* | Avg. quote, cats Prices based on average across all available cat breeds and locations $17/mo* | Avg. quote, cats Prices based on average across all available cat breeds and locations $0/mo* | Avg. quote, cats Prices based on average across all available cat breeds and locations $22/mo* | Avg. quote, cats Prices based on average across all available cat breeds and locations $0/mo* |
Reimbursement % The percentage of costs your provider will pay for a covered event, after you’ve paid your deductible. 70%–90% | Reimbursement % The percentage of costs your provider will pay for a covered event, after you’ve paid your deductible. 70%–90% | Reimbursement % The percentage of costs your provider will pay for a covered event, after you’ve paid your deductible. 70%–90% | Reimbursement % The percentage of costs your provider will pay for a covered event, after you’ve paid your deductible. 60%–90% | Reimbursement % The percentage of costs your provider will pay for a covered event, after you’ve paid your deductible. 50%–90% |
Payout limits The maximum amount your provider will pay for covered events. $2,500–Unlimited | Payout limits The maximum amount your provider will pay for covered events. $5,000–Unlimited | Payout limits The maximum amount your provider will pay for covered events. $5,000–$15,000 | Payout limits The maximum amount your provider will pay for covered events. $5,000–$100,000 | Payout limits The maximum amount your provider will pay for covered events. Unlimited |
Deductibles The amount you must pay towards a covered event before your coverage kicks in. $100–$1,000 | Deductibles The amount you must pay towards a covered event before your coverage kicks in. $50–$1,000 | Deductibles The amount you must pay towards a covered event before your coverage kicks in. $300–$700 | Deductibles The amount you must pay towards a covered event before your coverage kicks in. $100–$750 | Deductibles The amount you must pay towards a covered event before your coverage kicks in. $250–$1,000 |
Curable pre-existing conditions CoveredPre-existing conditions refer to conditions your pet has shown documented symptoms of before your policy’s waiting period is over. Some companies still cover these conditions if they’re deemed “curable” and haven’t shown symptoms for a specified period of time that varies by insurer. | Curable pre-existing conditions CoveredPre-existing conditions refer to conditions your pet has shown documented symptoms of before your policy’s waiting period is over. Some companies still cover these conditions if they’re deemed “curable” and haven’t shown symptoms for a specified period of time that varies by insurer. | Curable pre-existing conditions CoveredPre-existing conditions refer to conditions your pet has shown documented symptoms of before your policy’s waiting period is over. Some companies still cover these conditions if they’re deemed “curable” and haven’t shown symptoms for a specified period of time that varies by insurer. | Curable pre-existing conditions CoveredPre-existing conditions refer to conditions your pet has shown documented symptoms of before your policy’s waiting period is over. Some companies still cover these conditions if they’re deemed “curable” and haven’t shown symptoms for a specified period of time that varies by insurer. | Curable pre-existing conditions Not coveredPre-existing conditions refer to conditions your pet has shown documented symptoms of before your policy’s waiting period is over. Some companies still cover these conditions if they’re deemed “curable” and haven’t shown symptoms for a specified period of time that varies by insurer. |
Data in this table has been sourced from Compare users who received a pet insurance quote from our partner Fletch.
Save Money with California’s Best Pet Insurers
Policies in California start as low as $11 per month.
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Our Picks for the Best Pet Insurance Companies in California
After extensive research, we’ve identified the top insurers that offer the best combination of coverage, value, and customer service for California pet owners.
Here’s our full list:
Spot: Best for dogs
Pros
No age restrictions
Optional wellness plans available
Multiple deductible and reimbursement options
Cons
No 100% reimbursement option
14-day waiting period for accidents
Six-month orthopedic waiting period
Spot earned our top recommendation for dogs because it currently boasts the cheapest average rates in the state, according to our data.
The company also offers multiple deductible and reimbursement options, covers behavioral and alternative therapies, and even includes prescription food coverage.
Unlike many competitors, Spot has no age restrictions, making it accessible for both puppies and senior dogs.
These comprehensive features, combined with strong pricing advantages, helped Spot rank at the top for dog owners.
Pets Best: Best for cats
Pros
No upper age limit for enrollment
Acupuncture care coverage available
Unlimited coverage option available
Cons
No 100% reimbursement
Doesn’t cover behavioral conditions
Relatively low multi-pet discount
Pets Best stood out for having some of the cheapest rates for cats in California, according to our data. And with its lack of upper age limits and its coverage for certain alternative therapies, it’s a great option for cats of all ages.
The insurer also offers deductibles as low as $50 and provides an unlimited payout option, giving pet owners the flexibility to manage costs while ensuring comprehensive coverage for their feline friends.
Fetch: Best for young pets
Pros
Competitive puppy pricing
Lowest kitten rates
Comprehensive young pet coverage
Cons
Lower payout limits
Limited senior coverage
Fewer plan options
Our research shows that Fetch consistently delivers some of the lowest prices for puppies and kittens. That said, the company doesn’t offer the highest payout limits, so it might not be the best choice for owners of older pets.
Lemonade: Best for senior pets
Pros
Donates excess revenue to non-profits
Paid-in-full discount available
Curable pre-existing condition coverage after 12 months
Cons
Some coverages available only with add-on
Long orthopedic waiting period
No 100% reimbursement rate available
Lemonade offers the cheapest rates for senior cats and dogs, according to our research. The company provides a two-day waiting period for accidents (one of the shortest in the industry) and a 14-day period for illnesses.
The company also covers some curable pre-existing conditions if your senior pet is symptom-free for a year. These shorter waiting periods and generous coverage benefit senior pets that may need more frequent care.
Healthy Paws: Best for unlimited payouts
Pros
Quick claims processing
Covers hereditary and congenital conditions
Covers alternative treatments
Cons
Doesn’t offer wellness plan
No coverage for exam fees
No accident-only plan available
All Healthy Paws policies feature unlimited payouts, providing peace of mind for owners facing potentially expensive treatments. While not the cheapest company in our database, it consistently ranked pretty well when it comes to pricing, especially for adult dogs and puppies.
The company also covers curable pre-existing conditions and will pay for some alternative therapies.
Our editorial team selected these companies based on a combination of average premiums, available coverages, policy features, and more.
These factors include:
State-level average premiums by species, age, and breed
Available reimbursement rates, payout levels, and deductibles
Waiting periods for common conditions
Coverage for curable pre-existing conditions
Plan flexibility and policy management features
We prioritized each factor differently depending on the category to provide the best possible recommendations to pet owners throughout the state.
The Cheapest Pet Insurance Companies in California
Pet insurance rates can vary significantly between companies due to different pricing structures, coverage options, and more. For example, some insurers focus on basic accident coverage, while others provide more comprehensive illness protection.
The table below shows companies with the cheapest average monthly premiums for dogs and cats in California, based on our research.
The below rates are estimated rates current as of: Wednesday, October 1 at 12:00 PM PDT.
Company  | Average Monthly Premium |
|---|---|
| Spot | $24 |
| ASPCA | $32 |
| Pets Best | $32 |
| Lemonade | $38 |
| Fetch Pet | $40 |
| Healthy Paws | $46 |
| Figo | $62 |
| Prudent Pet | $64 |
| Pumpkin | $66 |
The below rates are estimated rates current as of: Wednesday, October 1 at 12:00 PM PDT.
Company | Average Monthly Premium |
|---|---|
| Spot | $11 |
| ASPCA | $16 |
| Pets Best | $17 |
| Lemonade | $22 |
| Pumpkin | $25 |
| Figo | $30 |
| Prudent Pet | $37 |
California Pet Insurance Laws and Requirements
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California recently passed significant reforms to protect pet owners throughout the state. As of Jan. 1, 2025, Senate Bill 1217 requires insurers to provide clearer policy disclosures and greater transparency.[2]
These new regulations mandate that pet insurance companies do each of the following:
Clearly disclose any pre-existing condition exclusions up front
State any waiting periods, deductibles, and policy limits
Explain premium changes based on pet age, claims history, or location
Market wellness programs separately from insurance
Implement coverage within two days of receiving application and payment
California is the first state to implement such comprehensive pet insurance consumer protections. The state also supports spay/neuter accessibility through new certification programs for veterinary schools, authorized under Senate Bill 1233.
While California doesn’t mandate pet insurance, pet owners should know they’re financially responsible for vet costs. With California veterinary visits averaging $71.95 per pet and costs rising more than 60% over the past decade, many pet owners are finding it challenging to afford necessary care.[3]
How to Pick the Right California Pet Insurance Company for You
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Finding the best pet insurance requires evaluating your specific needs and carefully comparing your options. California’s new transparency laws make this process easier than ever.
Follow these steps to find the best policy for your needs.
Assess your budget. Determine how much you can afford to pay each month versus potential out-of-pocket vet costs.
Consider your pet’s age and breed. Some breeds face higher risks for specific conditions.
Compare quotes from multiple insurers. The industry is filled with insurance companies, so the best way to find the right fit is to compare quotes.
Review waiting periods and exclusions. This is especially important given California’s new disclosure requirements.[4]
Ensure your vet qualifies. Most plans allow you to go to any licensed vet, but not every vet works with each company.
Find the Best Company for Your Furry Friend
Spot may be cheapest, but it won’t be right for every California pet parent.
Secure. Free. Easy-to-use.
4.7/5 (1,395+ reviews)
California Pet Insurance FAQs
Here are answers to the most common questions California pet owners ask about insurance coverage.
What’s the best pet insurance in California?
The best pet insurance depends on your pet’s specific needs. Spot offers excellent value for dogs, while Pets Best provides competitive rates for cats. Consider factors like your pet’s age, breed, and health history when choosing.
What’s the average cost of pet insurance for dogs in California?
Pet insurance for dogs in California averages $46 per month, according to Compare.com data. Senior dogs typically cost $109 per month due to higher health risks.
Purebred dogs average $67 per month, while mixed breeds cost around $51 to insure.
What’s the average cost of pet insurance for cats in California?
Pet insurance for cats in California averages $23 per month, according to Compare.com data. But rates can vary depending on age, breed, and other factors.
For example, purebred cats average $34 per month, while mixed breeds cost around $28 monthly.
Is pet insurance expensive in California?
Not really. Compared to nearby states, California’s rates run about average. Washington has similar average costs, but some Western states, like Utah and New Mexico, offer lower premiums.
California’s high cost of living and expensive veterinary care contribute to these rates, but the state’s large insurance market provides competitive options.
Is pet insurance worth it in California?
Yes. Pet insurance can be valuable in California, given the state’s high and rising veterinary costs.
What does pet insurance cover in California?
Most California pet insurance policies cover accidents, illnesses, hereditary conditions, and emergency care. Coverage typically includes diagnostic tests, surgeries, medications, and hospitalization. Wellness care, like routine exams and vaccinations, usually requires separate add-on coverage.
Methodology
Compare.com data scientists analyzed more than 250,000 pet insurance quotes from our proprietary database — sourced by Fletch Insurance Services LLC (“Fletch”) — to determine the premium prices displayed on this page. These quotes come directly from Compare.com’s 10+ partner insurance companies across all 50 states and Washington, D.C., reflecting monthly pet insurance costs for both dogs and cats.
Unless otherwise specified, premium prices represent one-year rolling medians to account for market volatility driven by factors such as rising veterinary care costs and increased pet ownership.
Breed-level prices incorporate both mixed and purebred pets. To ensure reliability, a minimum of 8 quotes is required for dogs and 4 quotes for cats. Breeds with significant price deviations from the average are noted explicitly; other breeds are estimated based on average costs for all purebred pets.
Pets are grouped into three age brackets:
- Young: under 12 months
- Adult: 12 months to 7 years
- Senior: over 7 years
Coverage Limits
Dog premium averages reflect policies with annual coverage limits of $2,500, $5,000, $10,000, or unlimited.
Cat premium averages reflect policies with annual coverage limits of $2,500, $5,000, $7,000, $10,000, or unlimited.
For both dogs and cats, monthly premiums are segmented by:
- Deductible options: $250, $500, $1,000
- Reimbursement options: 70%, 80%, 90%
Sources
- Los Angeles Times. "Vet care costs are skyrocketing in California. 8 people share their bill horror stories."
- Governor Gavin Newsom. "Governor Newsom signs pet insurance reform bill, takes action to support animals and pets."
- American Veterinary Medial Association. "Pet Owners and Demographics Sourcebook."
- California Department of INsurance. "Pet Insurance."
