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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.
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In This Article
Pet insurance in Massachusetts is a little more expensive than in other states. Our data shows that coverage averages $51 per month for dogs and $27 for cats.
Massachusetts pet owners face higher veterinary costs, with average claims reaching $427, according to Spot. The state’s veterinary costs have also increased by 16% since 2023.[1][2]
Regardless of the Bay State’s average rates, affordable pet insurance is possible with companies like ASPCA, Spot, and Lemonade. We’ll explore these top insurers, compare rates across companies, and cover everything you need to know about pet coverage in Massachusetts.
What You Need to Know About Pet Insurance in Massachusetts
Average annual costs run $612 for dogs in Massachusetts and $324 for cats.
ASPCA is the cheapest insurer in Massachusetts for dogs, and Pets Best is the most affordable for cats.
Massachusetts has no specific pet insurance regulations beyond standard insurance laws, giving you flexibility to choose coverage that fits your needs.
Compare Pet Insurance Companies in Massachusetts
To give you an idea of how different insurers compare, we’ve selected five leading pet insurance companies to compare side by side. The table below highlights key metrics, including average rates for dogs and cats, pre-existing condition coverage, and unique benefits. This way, you can see how each insurer stacks up on what matters most to Massachusetts pet owners.
Avg. quote, dogs Prices based on average across all available dog breeds and locations $31/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 $31/mo* | Avg. quote, dogs Prices based on average across all available dog breeds and locations $51/mo* | Avg. quote, dogs Prices based on average across all available dog breeds and locations $83/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 $20/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 $0/mo* | Avg. quote, cats Prices based on average across all available cat breeds and locations $34/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. 50%–90% | Reimbursement % The percentage of costs your provider will pay for a covered event, after you’ve paid your deductible. 80%–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–$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. 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–$500 | 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–$1,000 | Deductibles The amount you must pay towards a covered event before your coverage kicks in. $250–$1,000 | Deductibles The amount you must pay towards a covered event before your coverage kicks in. $100–$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 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. | 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 Massachusetts
Every pet has unique needs, which means no single company works best for every pet parent. The right choice depends on your pet’s age, its breed, its health status, and your budget preferences.
We selected these companies based on the factors most important to pet owners: average rates, comprehensive coverage options, and specialized benefits that address common pet health concerns. Each insurer on our list offers something unique while delivering solid value for Massachusetts residents.
ASPCA: Best for dogs
Covers hereditary and congenital issues
Behavioral issue coverage available
Preventive care plan available
Must call for unlimited coverage quote
Limited deductible options
Relatively low annual reimbursement limits
If you’re a Massachusetts dog owner looking for solid coverage without paying high prices, the ASPCA consistently delivers some of the most competitive rates we’ve seen in the state.
The insurer may appeal to Bay State pet parents for its budget-friendly flexibility. You can choose between 70%, 80%, and 90% reimbursement levels to keep your monthly budget in check. Plus, you can take advantage of one of the lowest minimum deductible options around.
The company is a smart choice for Massachusetts families who want comprehensive protection but need to keep monthly costs manageable.
Spot: Best for cats
Prescription food coverage
Two-day claims reimbursement
Discount for multiple pets
No 100% reimbursement option
14-day waiting period for accidents
No direct payment to vets
For Massachusetts cat owners, Spot consistently offers the lowest premiums we’ve found in our research. That’s huge when you’re dealing with the state’s higher vet costs.
Spot has an unlimited payout option, which means you won’t hit a cap if your cat needs expensive treatment. Plus, the insurer’s coverage of curable conditions gives you peace of mind that your policy won’t permanently exclude certain health issues.
Lemonade: Best for senior pets
Donates excess revenue to non-profits
Paid-in-full discount available
Curable pre-existing condition coverage after 12 months
Not available in every state
Some coverages only with add-on
Long orthopedic waiting period
If you’re in Massachusetts with an older pet, Lemonade beats the competition on senior pet premiums, according to our research. What really matters for older pets is having coverage as quickly as possible, and Lemonade’s two-day waiting period for accidents is incredibly short compared to industry standards.
Lemonade’s willingness to cover curable conditions after 12 months is also a game-changer for senior pets who could potentially develop manageable health issues.
Healthy Paws: Best for purebred dogs
Unlimited annual and lifetime payouts
Quick claims processing
Covers hereditary and congenital conditions
Won’t issue policies to older pets
Doesn’t offer wellness plan
No coverage for exam fees
For Massachusetts owners of purebred dogs, Healthy Paws takes the guesswork out of coverage limits by offering unlimited payouts. With Healthy Paws, there are no caps, no tiers, and no worrying about hitting a ceiling when your purebred develops an expensive hereditary condition.
This is particularly valuable in Massachusetts, where specialized veterinary care for breed-specific issues can get costly fast. You’ll get competitive premiums without having to stress about whether your coverage will actually be there when you need it most.
Pumpkin: Best for mixed cats
Covers behavioral and dental issues
Includes optional wellness package
No upper age limit
Preventive care only available as add-on
14-day waiting period for illnesses
No coverage for special diet pet foods
While Pumpkin might not offer the absolute lowest premiums for mixed-breed cats in Massachusetts, the company makes up for it with higher reimbursement rates of 80%–90%.
This means you’ll get back a bigger percentage of what you spend at pricier Massachusetts vet clinics. For cat owners who prioritize getting more money back on their claims over paying the lowest monthly premium, Pumpkin delivers real value.
Our editorial team selected the companies you see here 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 Massachusetts
Rates vary significantly from one insurer to the next based on factors like your pet’s age, its breed, its location, and the coverage options you select. Younger pets and mixed breeds typically cost less to insure than older or purebred animals.
Here are the companies offering the most competitive average rates for dogs and cats in Massachusetts, according to our data.
Company | Average Monthly Premium: Dogs | Average Monthly Premium: Cats |
---|---|---|
ASPCA | $31 | $15 |
Spot | $31 | $12 |
Lemonade | $38 | $20 |
Figo | $63 | $38 |
Prudent Pet | $65 | $40 |
Pumpkin | $83 | $34 |
Massachusetts Pet Insurance Laws and Requirements
Massachusetts treats pet insurance like property insurance, so no specific law covers pet health policies. The state legislature has introduced a bill (HD.2910) to create clear rules and protections for pet insurance, but it hasn’t passed it into law as of this writing.[3] [4]
Here’s an overview of Massachusetts pet laws that affect pet owners:
Dog licensing: Owners must annually license all dogs 6 months and older and provide proof of current rabies vaccination. The state reduces license fees for spayed and neutered dogs.[5]
Leash laws: State law requires dogs to be on leash when off the owner’s property. Dogs must be under control at all times when not in the house or a fenced yard.
Spay/neuter: While spaying and neutering aren’t required, Massachusetts offers reduced licensing fees for these pets. Animal shelters can’t sell or give away dogs or cats without spaying or neutering them, unless the new owner signs a written agreement and leaves a deposit of at least $40 with the shelter.
Strict liability: Massachusetts follows strict liability for dog bites and injuries. Owners are automatically held responsible for damages their dogs cause, regardless of the dog’s prior history or the owner’s knowledge of aggressive tendencies.
Rabies vaccination: Massachusetts requires owners to vaccinate dogs against rabies, with the first given around 6 months of age, then annually or every three years, depending on vaccine type.[6]
How to Pick the Right Massachusetts Pet Insurance Company for You
Finding the right pet insurance starts with understanding your pet’s specific needs and your budget constraints. Massachusetts’ higher veterinary costs make a thorough comparison especially important.
Assess your pet’s risk factors. Consider your pet’s age, breed, and existing health conditions. Purebred dogs often need coverage for hereditary conditions, while senior pets benefit from plans with shorter waiting periods.
Compare multiple quotes. Get quotes from at least three companies since rates can vary significantly. Include your pet’s specific details and your Massachusetts ZIP code for accurate pricing.
Review coverage options. Look beyond price to examine what a plan covers. Check waiting periods, annual limits, reimbursement percentages, and whether pre-existing conditions receive any coverage.
Examine policy exclusions. Read the fine print to understand what policies don’t cover. Some policies exclude certain breeds’ common conditions or limit behavioral treatments.
Consider your veterinarian. Make sure your preferred vet accepts the insurance company’s claims process. Some insurers require you to pay up front and seek reimbursement, while others offer direct payment options.
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Pet Insurance Terms: A Full Glossary of Everything You Should Know
Massachusetts Pet Insurance FAQs
Here are answers to the most common questions people ask about pet insurance in Massachusetts.
What’s the best pet insurance in Massachusetts?
The best pet insurance depends on your pet’s specific needs. That said, our data shows that ASPCA offers competitive dog coverage, Spot excels for cats, and Lemonade provides excellent senior pet options. Compare quotes from multiple companies to find your best match.
What is the average cost of pet insurance in Massachusetts?
Pet insurance in Massachusetts costs an average of $51 per month for dogs and $27 for cats, according to our data. But rates can vary from owner to owner.
Is pet insurance expensive in Massachusetts?
Yes. Massachusetts pet insurance premiums run higher than national averages because of its higher veterinary costs. Pet healthcare costs have risen significantly (as much as 16%) in Massachusetts, with the average claim costing around $427. Basic annual checkup costs have increased by $500 since 2018, making pet insurance coverage valuable for protecting your budget in the Bay State.[7]
Is pet insurance worth it in Massachusetts?
Yes. Pet insurance is especially valuable in Massachusetts due to its higher vet costs. Emergency treatments and specialized care can easily cost thousands, so having coverage helps protect your budget. It also gives you peace of mind and the ability to choose care based on your pet’s needs, not just your wallet.
What does pet insurance cover in Massachusetts?
Pet insurance in Massachusetts typically covers accidents, illnesses, diagnostic tests, surgeries, and medications. Many plans include hereditary conditions, behavioral treatments, and prescription diets. Wellness plans for routine care, like vaccinations and dental cleanings, are usually available as add-ons. Coverage varies by company and plan level.
Our editorial team created this article with the help of highly trained generative 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
- Spot Pet Insurance. "Pet Insurance in Massachusetts."
- Spot Pet Insurance. "Pet Healthcare Costs Have Risen the Most in These Ten U.S. States."
- The Commonwealth of Massachusetts. "No. 1186."
- MASSACHUSETTS ANIMAL FUND. "Animal Laws and Regulations in Massachusetts."
- Acushnet Massachusetts. "2025 Dog License Information."
- MSPCA-Angell. "Dog Health and Veterinary Care."
- Boston 25 News. "As veterinary bills soar, a local push to bring down pet care costs."