The Best Pet Insurance in San Diego in 2025
Spot, ASPCA, and Lemonade top our list of the best pet insurers in San Diego.
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Edited byMatthew Gross
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Matthew Gross is an editor at Compare.com. With a background in editing and SEO, he’s passionate about creating content that helps readers get the information they need to make more informed decisions. Prior to Compare.com, Matthew brought his user-centered approach to his work with global brands like Apple and Adobe.
Matthew graduated from Illinois State University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in 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
With veterinary costs rising in California,[1] having the right pet insurance can save you money. The state was the first to impose pet insurance regulations, so you can feel confident in the policy you purchase.
San Diego follows California requirements for pets, including mandatory rabies vaccinations and licensing.[2] These rules make proper pet insurance coverage even more valuable for protecting both your pet’s health and your finances.
Dog insurance in California averages $46 per month, while cat coverage costs an average of $23. But your rates can vary significantly based on your pet’s age, breed, and the coverage you choose.[3]
Our top picks for the best pet insurance in San Diego combine affordable premiums with a variety of coverage options. We’ll tell you everything you need to know to get the best coverage for your furry friend.
What You Need to Know About Pet Insurance in San Diego
Dog insurance in California averages $552 annually, while cats cost an average of $276 per year to insure.
San Diego has extensive pet care requirements, and pet insurance can help keep vet costs affordable.
California has some of the strongest pet insurance regulations in the nation, including disclosures for waiting periods and pre-existing condition exclusions.[4]
Compare Pet Insurance Companies in San Diego
When you’re shopping for pet insurance, it can be helpful to know how companies compare. Checking average rates and policy features is important to find the best coverage for your pet.
The table below lists monthly rates, pre-existing condition coverage, and other policy details for the leading pet insurance companies in San Diego, according to Compare.com data.
 |  |  |  |  |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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 $38/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 $62/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 $22/mo* | Avg. quote, cats Prices based on average across all available cat breeds and locations $16/mo* | Avg. quote, cats Prices based on average across all available cat breeds and locations $30/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. 60%–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%–100% |
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–$100,000 | 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 |
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. $100–$750 | Deductibles The amount you must pay towards a covered event before your coverage kicks in. $100–$500 | Deductibles The amount you must pay towards a covered event before your coverage kicks in. $100–$750 |
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 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 San Diego’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 San Diego
We selected these five insurers based on their combination of affordable rates, coverage options, and consumer protections that align with California’s pet insurance regulations.
Spot: Best for dogs
Pros
No age restrictions
Optional wellness plans
Multiple deductible and reimbursement options
Cons
No 100% reimbursement option
14-day waiting period for accidents
No option to pay vet directly
Spot is our top choice for dog coverage in San Diego, offering the most affordable premiums for canines in California. The company has flexible reimbursement levels and deductibles, so you can get coverage that fits your budget.
Spot has no age restrictions on coverage, making it accessible for dogs of all ages. Its accident and illness plans also include coverage for cancer treatment, behavioral issues, and alternative therapies.
Pets Best: Best for cats
Pros
No upper age limit for coverage
Acupuncture coverage available
Unlimited coverage option available
Cons
No 100% reimbursement option
Doesn’t cover behavioral conditions
Relatively low multi-pet discount
Pets Best stands out for cat owners in San Diego with flexible policies without upper age limits. The insurer also has multiple deductible and reimbursement options. Pets Best even offers coverage for alternative therapies like acupuncture, making it ideal for cats requiring specialized treatments.
Lemonade: Best for young pets
Pros
Bundling discount available
Can file claims through app
Low premiums
Cons
Behavioral coverage available only as add-on
Doesn’t cover alternative therapies
Not available in every state
Lemonade is our top pick for young pets thanks to its low average premiums. The company offers a preventative care package that covers two wellness exams, vaccines, spay/neuter procedures, microchipping, and heartworm medication.
Lemonade’s short waiting periods and user-friendly mobile claims processing make pet insurance accessible for first-time pet owners.
ASPCA: Best for senior pets
Pros
Discount of 10% for each additional pet
Covers alternative therapies
Covers hereditary issues
Cons
No coverage for prescription food
Must call for quote
Limited deductible options
ASPCA has no upper age limit for coverage, making it great for senior pets. The company offers comprehensive coverage, including for alternative therapies and hereditary conditions. The insurer also has options for chronic conditions like diabetes, cancer, and heart disease.
Figo: Best for unlimited payouts
Pros
No upper age limit for coverage
Multiple reimbursement options
24/7 virtual vet
Cons
Mixed customer reviews
No prescription food coverage
Low multi-pet discount
Figo excels by offering unlimited annual payouts and multiple reimbursement options. The company also offers 24/7 virtual vet visits, so you can talk to someone whenever you need to. Figo’s unlimited coverage means you don’t have to worry about reaching annual or lifetime benefit caps and can focus on your pet’s care.
Our editorial team selected these companies based on a comprehensive analysis of average premiums, available coverages, policy features, and regulatory compliance. We evaluated several key factors:
State-level average premiums
Available reimbursement rates
Waiting periods
Coverage scope
Plan flexibility
We prioritized each factor differently depending on the category to provide optimal recommendations for pet owners throughout California.
The Cheapest Pet Insurance Companies in San Diego
Pet insurance rates vary significantly between insurers. Companies have different coverages and risk calculations, which affect how much they charge. Insurers also use factors like your pet’s breed and age to calculate premiums. When shopping for coverage, you might find substantial price differences for identical coverage.
The table below shows the companies offering the most affordable average pet insurance for dogs and cats in California, based on Compare.com data analysis.
The below rates are estimated rates current as of: Sunday, October 5 at 12:00 PM PDT.
Company  | Average Monthly Premium: Dogs | Average Monthly Premium: Cats |
|---|---|---|
| Spot | $24 | $11 |
| ASPCA | $32 | $16 |
| Pets Best | $32 | $17 |
| Lemonade | $38 | $22 |
| Figo | $62 | $30 |
| Prudent Pet | $64 | $37 |
| Pumpkin | $66 | $25 |
San Diego Pet Insurance Laws and Requirements
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In addition to California’s pet insurance laws, San Diego has its own pet regulations, including:
Rabies vaccination: All dogs in San Diego older than 4 months must receive a rabies vaccination and license.
Licensing requirements: You must license your dog within 30 days of reaching 4 months old, acquiring a new pet, or moving to San Diego. This can be especially important if you lose your pet, because licensed dogs typically have higher reunification rates. Licensing fees range from $20 to $50 annually.[5]
Vehicle safety laws: California law prohibits leaving animals unattended in vehicles in conditions that can cause suffering. The state has legal protections for citizens removing animals in immediate danger from a vehicle.[6]
How to Pick the Right San Diego Pet Insurance Company for You
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Living in a city where the sunshine brings year-round outdoor adventures and with busy dog parks, San Diego pet parents need coverage that fits their needs. From surfside walks to urban hikes, you should consider how your coverage handles emergencies, rising vet costs, and wellness requirements.[7]
Follow these steps to find the right policy for your pet:
Consider your pet’s needs. Think about your pet’s age, breed, and any hereditary or pre-existing conditions when shopping for coverage options. Senior pets might benefit from plans without age limits, while younger pets may need affordable rates and accident coverage.
Understand waiting periods. Most insurers require you to wait before coverage kicks in. Waiting periods are typically 14 days for accidents but can be longer for illnesses. Some companies offer shorter waiting periods, which can be crucial if your pet needs care shortly after you sign up.
Check vet networks. Make sure your current vet accepts the insurer, or find out if the company lets you visit any vet and reimburses you directly. You don’t want to be stuck switching vets just because of your insurance choice.
Estimate your total costs. Don’t just look at the monthly payment. You should also factor in deductibles, copays, annual limits, and any excluded treatments to figure out what you’ll actually pay. A higher monthly premium could have lower deductibles or higher reimbursement rates, giving you a better overall value.
Compare quotes from multiple insurers. When shopping around, you should get quotes from at least three different insurers. Premiums can vary dramatically for identical coverage levels and pet profiles. Make sure to get quotes with the same deductible and reimbursement amounts for the best comparison.
Find the Best Company for Your Furry Friend
Spot may be cheapest, but it won’t be right for every San Diego pet parent.
Secure. Free. Easy-to-use.
4.7/5 (1,395+ reviews)
San Diego Pet Insurance FAQs
We answered some common questions about pet insurance for San Diego residents. Check them out below.
What’s the best pet insurance in San Diego?
It depends. Spot ranks as our top overall choice for San Diego pet owners, offering affordable rates and flexible coverage. But the best insurer for your pet depends on its age, breed, and any current or hereditary health issues.
What’s the average cost of pet insurance for dogs in San Diego?
Dog insurance in California averages $46 per month, according to Compare.com data. But costs vary significantly by age and breed.
For example, senior dogs typically cost $109 per month. Purebred dogs average $67 per month to insure, compared to $51 for mixed breeds.
What’s the average cost of pet insurance for cats in San Diego?
Cat insurance averages $23 per month in California, according to Compare.com data.
Purebred cats average $34 per month to insure, compared to $28 for mixed breeds.
Is pet insurance worth it in San Diego?
Yes. Pet insurance helps ensure you can afford to get your pet the care it needs. California’s regulatory protections make pet policies more reliable than in many other states.
Is there a waiting period for pet insurance in San Diego?
Yes. California law requires pet insurance companies to issue policies within two business days of receiving a completed application and payment.[8] Coverage itself may still have waiting periods for certain conditions, typically ranging from two to 14 days.
Disclosure
Our editorial team created this article with the help of highly trained generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools. That said, multiple insurance experts — including at least one licensed agent — have rigorously reviewed, fact-checked, and edited every word and data point you see here.
We write, edit, and review all of the content on Compare.com according to our strict editorial standards, regardless of how we created it. Learn more about our editorial process.
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."
- San Diego Humane Society. "Dog Licensing Frequently Asked Questions."
- North American Pet Health Insurance Association. "NAPHIA’s Pet Insurance Buying Guide."
- National Association of Insurance Commissioners. "NAIC Passes Pet Insurance Model Act."
- San Diego Humane Society. "Animal Services Fees."
- California State Legislature. "California Code, PEN 597.7."
- American Animal Hospital Association. "How Do I Choose the Right Pet Insurance?."
- LegiScan. "Bill Text: CA SB1217."
