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Lequita Westbrooks is an insurance editor at Compare.com. Her writing and editing experiences span several industries, including insurance, personal finance, higher education, and more. She excels at explaining complex topics like auto insurance in simple, easy-to-understand language and is passionate about helping readers save money. Lequita graduated from the University of South Florida, where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in English.
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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.
Updated
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While we make money through partnerships with some of the brands we discuss in our articles, our editorial team operates 100% independently, and these partners never influence or affect the topics, reviews, ratings, or recommendations we provide. We never guarantee favorable reviews or mentions in exchange for compensation from any brands or partners, and we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure our content is always independent, truthful, and unbiased.
In This Article
When you’re caring for a furry family member in Illinois, unexpected vet bills can quickly add up. That’s where our top picks for pet insurance come in handy. You’ll find some of the best coverage and rates for your pet with Spot, Lemonade, and Pets Best.
Pet insurance is especially helpful in Illinois due to the state’s weather risks. Its often harsh winters can lead to frostbite and hypothermia in pets, and barometric pressure changes may also affect your cat’s or dog’s health.
The average cost of pet insurance in Illinois is $44 per month for dogs and $24 per month for cats. But rates vary significantly between companies based on your pet’s age, breed, and the coverage level you choose.
Let’s explore your best options and help you find the perfect policy for your four-legged friend.
What You Need to Know About Pet Insurance in Illinois
Average annual pet insurance costs for dogs are $528 and $288 for cats.
Spot tends to have the cheapest pet insurance rates for dogs in Illinois. Cat owners often find a good deal with Spot.
Illinois currently has no specific pet insurance regulations, but it requires owners to get rabies vaccination for dogs and cats.[1]
Compare Pet Insurance Companies in Illinois
We’ve analyzed rates and coverage from leading pet insurance companies to help you decide on the best policy for your furry loved one.
The table compares several of the top companies’ key features, such as average premiums, coverage for pre-existing conditions, and reimbursement options. Check them out to simplify your shopping experience.
Avg. quote, dogs Prices based on average across all available dog breeds and locations $23/mo* | Avg. quote, dogs Prices based on average across all available dog breeds and locations $30/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 $28/mo* | Avg. quote, dogs Prices based on average across all available dog breeds and locations $69/mo* |
Avg. quote, cats Prices based on average across all available cat breeds and locations $12/mo* | Avg. quote, cats Prices based on average across all available cat breeds and locations $18/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 $15/mo* | Avg. quote, cats Prices based on average across all available cat breeds and locations $29/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. 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%–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–$100,000 | 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. $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. $100–$750 | 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–$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. |
Our Picks for the Best Pet Insurance Companies in Illinois
You won’t find one company that’ll meet every pet’s needs or owner’s budget. But we’ve streamlined the process by highlighting our top picks.
After analyzing each company’s rates and coverage, we have selected the top insurers that offer the best value and protection for Illinois pet owners.
Spot: Best overall
No age restrictions
Optional wellness plans
Multiple deductible and reimbursement options
No 100% reimbursement option
14-day waiting period for accidents
No option to pay vet directly
Spot stands out as the best overall pet insurer in Illinois, thanks to its competitive pricing and unlimited annual coverage. Spot also offers valuable perks, including coverage for behavioral therapy, alternative treatments, and prescription food.
The company doesn’t have age restrictions, so it’s a great option for senior dogs and cats who need reliable coverage.
Lemonade: Best for dogs
Bundling discount of up to 15%
Can file claims through app
Pay-in-full discount available
Behavioral coverage only available as add-on
Doesn’t cover alternative therapies
Not available in every state
Lemonade earns our top spot for the most affordable pet insurance rates for dogs in Illinois, at $30 per month, according to our data.
It’s also an excellent choice for dogs with curable pre-existing conditions, such as roundworm infections. Lemonade’s user-friendly mobile app also makes filing claims simple and convenient for busy pet parents.
Pets Best: Best for cats
No upper age limit for enrollment
Acupuncture care coverage available
Unlimited coverage option available
No 100% reimbursement option
Doesn’t cover behavioral conditions
Relatively low multi-pet discount
Pets Best secured the top spot for the cheapest cat coverage in Illinois, at just $17 per month, according to our data. It’s an affordable option for cat owners seeking quality coverage.
Its unlimited payout option provides valuable peace of mind for expensive, long-term treatment. Pets Best also offers a budget-friendly accident-only plan for owners looking for basic emergency protection.
ASPCA: Best for senior pets
Covers alternative therapies
Discount of 10% for each additional pet
Covers hereditary and congenital issues
No coverage for prescription food
Must call for unlimited coverage quote
Limited deductible options
ASPCA excels at covering senior pets in Illinois, thanks to having no upper age limit for enrollment and consistent coverage for older animals. Senior dog coverage averages $73 per month, while senior cats cost $48 per month, according to our data.
The company provides coverage for hereditary and congenital conditions only if symptoms aren’t present before enrollment or during waiting periods. Senior pet owners should keep this limitation in mind when considering coverage.
Figo: Best for maximum coverage
No upper age limit for new policies
24/7 virtual vet visits
Three-day claims processing
Mixed customer reviews about claims
No coverage for prescription food
Relatively low multi-pet discount
Figo leads with maximum coverage options despite slightly higher premiums. The company provides 100% reimbursement, unlimited payouts, and covers curable pre-existing conditions.
With only a one-day waiting period for accidents, Figo quickly covers your pet when emergencies arise. But you’ll need to wait 14 days for illness coverage, and it doesn’t offer prescription food coverage.
Our editorial team selected these companies based on a comprehensive analysis of average premiums, coverage options, policy features, and customer value.
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 weighted each factor differently by category to provide the most relevant recommendations for Illinois pet owners.
The Cheapest Pet Insurance Companies in Illinois
Pet insurance rates vary significantly between insurers due to different pricing structures, coverage levels, deductibles, and more. Some companies focus on basic accident coverage while others provide comprehensive illness protection.
We searched for the cheapest pet insurers in Illinois. Here are the companies with the lowest average monthly premiums for dogs and cats, according to Compare.com data.
Company | Average Monthly Premium: Dogs | Average Monthly Premium: Cats |
---|---|---|
Spot | $23 | $12 |
ASPCA | $28 | $15 |
Lemonade | $30 | $18 |
Pets Best | $32 | $17 |
Pumpkin | $66 | $32 |
Figo | $69 | $29 |
Prudent Pet | $70 | $39 |
Illinois Pet Insurance Laws and Requirements
Illinois doesn’t have pet insurance regulations beyond standard consumer protections. The Illinois Department of Insurance treats pet insurance like other insurance products.[2] But the state’s Animal Control Act includes broad animal-related laws that still affect pet owners.
Here’s what you need to know about pet rules in Illinois.
Rabies requirements
Dogs and cats aged 4 months and older must receive a rabies vaccination from a licensed veterinarian. Dogs require a second shot within one year of the first. Subsequent vaccinations must comply with USDA vaccine licensing guidelines.
Leash laws
Dangerous dogs must remain leashed when off their owners’ property. If authorities catch a dog running at large, they can issue the owner a $25 public safety fine. Owners of repeat offenders must sterilize the dog within 30 days of reclaiming it. Hunting dogs and those in designated dog parks are exempt from leash requirements.
Spay/neuter programs
If authorities catch a dog running at large multiple times, the owner must sterilize it. Owners must spay or neuter potentially dangerous dogs within 14 days of reclaiming them. Counties can use animal control funds for low-income spay/neuter programs.
Dog breed legislation
Illinois passed House Bill 1049 into law in 2023, which prevents insurers from denying or canceling policies or increasing premiums solely based on dog breed. But companies can still deny coverage if they consider the dog dangerous.[3]
Liability laws
The state holds dog owners strictly liable for unprovoked attacks on lawful visitors. The state also allows livestock owners to kill dogs that attack their animals. Pet owners are liable for all damages their dogs cause to livestock.
How to Pick the Right Illinois Pet Insurance Company for You
Illinois pet owners pay around $1,300 per year for pet medical costs, and the state’s weather creates additional health risks for animals. Choosing the right pet insurance is especially important — and it starts with understanding your pet’s specific needs and the state’s unique challenges.
Follow these steps to make the best choice for your Illinois pet:
Assess your pet’s risk factors. Consider your pet’s age, breed, and health history. Certain breeds are more prone to specific health conditions and require more extensive coverage.
Compare multiple quotes. Rates vary by many factors, so get quotes from at least three different insurers.
Review coverage details. Check waiting periods, exclusions, and reimbursement rates to understand what your policy does and doesn’t cover.
Consider Illinois-specific factors. Choose coverage that accounts for weather-related risks and local vet costs, such as cold winters and seasonal illnesses that can affect your costs.
Read customer reviews. Look for feedback about the company’s claims processing and customer service to understand the service quality.
Remember that the cheapest option isn’t always the best value. Focus on finding comprehensive coverage that fits your budget and provides peace of mind.
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Pet Insurance Terms: A Full Glossary of Everything You Should Know
Illinois Pet Insurance FAQs
From harsh winters in Chicago to the challenges of finding vet care in rural parts of the state, these answers address the most common concerns for Illinois pet parents.
What’s the best pet insurance in Illinois?
No single best pet insurer exists, no matter where you live. That said, our research shows that Spot offers the best overall value pet insurance in Illinois. Spot’s competitive rates, no age restrictions, and comprehensive coverage, including behavioral therapy and prescription food benefits, make it a great fit for pet owners.
What’s the average cost of pet insurance for dogs in Illinois?
Dog insurance averages $44 per month in Illinois, according to our data. Senior dogs typically cost $118 per month, while purebred dogs average $67 per month, and mixed breeds cost $50 per month.
What’s the average cost of pet insurance for cats in Illinois?
Cat owners in Illinois pay an average of $44 per month, according to our research. Senior cats cost approximately $118 per month, purebreds average $67 per month, and mixed breeds run $50 per month.
Is pet insurance expensive in Illinois?
It depends. Illinois pet insurance costs are moderate compared to neighboring states. Rates are generally higher than in Indiana and Iowa but lower than in California and New York, reflecting regional veterinary costs and claim frequencies.
Is pet insurance worth it in Illinois?
Yes. Pet insurance is especially worth it in Illinois due to high veterinary costs and extreme weather risks. Illinois vet bills average $1,300 annually compared to $900 in nearby Missouri, while harsh winters and weather changes create additional health risks for pets.
What does pet insurance cover in Illinois?
Most pet insurance policies in Illinois cover accidents, illnesses, diagnostic tests, surgeries, medications, and hospitalization. Some plans also include behavioral therapy, alternative treatments, and prescription food 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
- Illinois General Assembly. "Animals (510 ILCS 5/) Animal Control Act.."
- Illinois.gov. "Pets."
- Illinois Senate Democrats. "Governor signs Holmes’ bill to end insurance discrimination based on dog breeds."