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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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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
New Jersey pet owners have some excellent options when protecting their furry family members. Our top pet insurance picks include Healthy Paws, Lemonade, Spot, ASPCA, and Figo. Each offers unique advantages that set them apart.
Pet insurance is particularly valuable in New Jersey, given the state’s high veterinary costs. The state ranks among the most expensive for pet insurance, with monthly rates averaging $45 for dogs and $28 for cats, according to our data. That’s compared to the national monthly average of $42 for dogs and $23 for cats. That said, these rates can vary significantly between companies based on your pet’s age, breed, and coverage level.
Let’s dive into what makes each of these companies stand out and help you find the perfect coverage for your pet.
What You Need to Know About Pet Insurance in New Jersey
Pet insurance costs average $540 per year for dogs and $336 per year for cats.
Spot and Pets Best tend to offer the most budget-friendly options in New Jersey.
New Jersey doesn’t have specific pet insurance regulations, but recent legislation forces insurers to prove pre-existing conditions.[1]
Compare Pet Insurance Companies in New Jersey
We’ve analyzed rates, coverage options, and customer satisfaction across multiple companies to help you make an informed decision. The table below highlights key differences in average premiums, pre-existing condition coverage, and unique benefits for the top pet insurance companies serving New Jersey residents.
Avg. quote, dogs Prices based on average across all available dog breeds and locations $36/mo* | Avg. quote, dogs Prices based on average across all available dog breeds and locations $37/mo* | Avg. quote, dogs Prices based on average across all available dog breeds and locations $27/mo* | Avg. quote, dogs Prices based on average across all available dog breeds and locations $35/mo* | Avg. quote, dogs Prices based on average across all available dog breeds and locations $59/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 $23/mo* | Avg. quote, cats Prices based on average across all available cat breeds and locations $14/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 $31/mo* |
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. 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. 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. $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. $250–$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–$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 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. | 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 New Jersey
Choosing the right pet insurance isn’t a one-size-fits-all situation. For example, what works best for your neighbor’s golden retriever might not be ideal for your tabby cat. Every pet has different needs, health risks, and budget considerations that affect which company offers the best value.
We selected these top companies based on factors that matter most to New Jersey pet parents: competitive pricing, comprehensive coverage options, fast claims processing, and specialized benefits that address common concerns.
Healthy Paws: Best for pets with chronic conditions
Unlimited annual and lifetime payouts
Quick claims processing
Option to pay your vet directly
Not available to older pets
Doesn’t offer wellness plans
15-day accident waiting period
Healthy Paws operates without annual or lifetime benefit caps, which can be valuable for pets with chronic conditions.
The company processes claims relatively quickly compared to industry averages and has lower monthly premiums for New Jersey pets, according to our data. That said, Healthy Paws won’t enroll pets older than 14 years in new policies, so ensure that you secure coverage while your pet is still young.
Lemonade: Best for bundling
Bundling discount available
Mobile app claims filing
Fast claims processing
Behavioral coverage through add-on only
No coverage for alternative therapies
Limited enrollment for older pets
Lemonade takes a tech-focused approach, featuring digital policy management and claims filing through its mobile app.
The company offers flexible deductible options and unlimited coverage limits, though behavioral therapy requires an add-on. And while its base rates test competitively in New Jersey, it doesn’t cover pre-existing conditions or alternative treatments.
Spot: Best for senior pets
No age restrictions
Optional wellness plans
Prescription food coverage
No 100% reimbursement option
14-day accident waiting period
No exotic pet coverage
Spot enrolls pets of any age and covers some curable pre-existing conditions. The company also includes prescription food coverage in its policies, which most insurers don’t.
That said, it caps reimbursement at 90%, and it doesn’t cover animals beyond cats and dogs.
ASPCA: Best for multiple pets
Multi-pet discount available
Preventive care plan available
Accident-only plan available
No prescription food coverage
Slow claims processing
14-day accident waiting period
ASPCA offers various plan types, including accident-only options for budget-conscious pet owners. The organization provides multi-pet discounts and optional preventive care add-ons. Claims processing times tend to be longer than some competitors, and it doesn’t cover prescription food under its standard policies.
Figo: Best for virtual vet visits
No upper age limit
Multiple reimbursement and deductible options
Virtual vet visits included
Mixed customer reviews about claims
No coverage for prescription food
Relatively low multi-pet discount
Figo doesn’t set age limits on new enrollments and includes telehealth consultations with its policies.
The company also offers various deductible and reimbursement combinations for customization. Customer feedback shows mixed experiences with claims handling, and its multi-pet discount is smaller than other insurers.
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 New Jersey
Pet insurance rates vary significantly between companies because each company weighs risk factors differently. Your pet’s breed, age, and location can influence pricing. Some focus heavily on breed-specific health risks, while others prioritize geographic factors like local veterinary costs.
The table below reveals the companies with the lowest average monthly premiums for both dogs and cats across New Jersey, according to our data.
Company | Average Monthly Premium: Dogs | Average Monthly Premium: Cats |
---|---|---|
Spot | $27 | $14 |
Pets Best | $33 | $15 |
ASPCA | $35 | $18 |
Lemonade | $37 | $23 |
Figo | $59 | $31 |
Prudent Pet | $63 | $34 |
Pumpkin | $71 | $32 |
New Jersey Pet Insurance Laws and Requirements
New Jersey doesn’t have specific pet insurance regulations, but recent legislative efforts aim to improve consumer protection. Here’s what you need to know:
Recent changes to pre-existing conditions: New legislation requires companies to clearly prove when pre-existing condition exclusions apply, rather than placing the burden on pet owners.[2]
Separate wellness plans: Companies can’t market wellness programs as actual insurance, so insurers must classify any wellness benefits included in policies as insurance coverage.
State-regulated premium increases: Pet insurance companies must get state approval before raising premiums, with the state often approving smaller increases than requested.[3]
No statewide requirements: Unlike auto insurance, New Jersey doesn’t require pet insurance.
The state’s Department of Banking and Insurance maintains a list of approved pet health companies operating in New Jersey, ensuring all companies meet basic financial and regulatory standards.[4]
How to Pick the Right New Jersey Pet Insurance Company for You
Finding the perfect pet insurance requires more than just comparing prices. Follow these steps to make the best choice for your Garden State pet:
Assess your pet’s specific needs. Consider your pet’s age, breed, current health status, and any breed-specific hereditary conditions.
Set your budget. Determine how much you can comfortably spend monthly and what deductible amount works for your finances.
Compare multiple quotes. Get personalized quotes from at least three companies, as rates can vary dramatically based on your ZIP code and pet details.
Read the fine print. Pay attention to waiting periods, exclusion lists, and coverage limits that could affect your claims.
Check company reviews. Research customer satisfaction ratings and claims processing speed, especially from other New Jersey residents.
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Pet Insurance Terms: A Full Glossary of Everything You Should Know
New Jersey Pet Insurance FAQs
Get quick answers to the most common questions about pet insurance in the Garden State.
What’s the best pet insurance in New Jersey?
No single company is best for every pet owner. But our research shows that Healthy Paws excels for comprehensive coverage, while Lemonade offers great tech features and competitive rates. Your best choice depends on your pet’s age, breed, health status, and your budget preferences.
What is the average cost of pet insurance in New Jersey?
New Jersey pet insurance costs an average of $45 per month for dogs and $28 for cats, according to Compare.com data. Senior dogs typically cost around $111 per month, while older cats average $69.
Is pet insurance expensive in New Jersey?
Yes. Pet insurance in New Jersey costs more than in most states, according to Compare.com data. But compared to neighboring states, New Jersey sits around the middle. New York has higher rates, while Pennsylvania offers lower costs.
Is pet insurance worth it in New Jersey?
Yes. Pet insurance provides valuable financial protection for New Jersey pet parents. When unexpected veterinary emergencies arise, insurance helps you focus on your pet’s care rather than worrying about the cost. With comprehensive coverage, you can make treatment decisions based on what’s best for your pet’s health.
What does pet insurance cover in New Jersey?
Most New Jersey pet insurance policies cover accidents, illnesses, surgeries, medications, and diagnostic tests. Some plans include coverage for behavioral therapy, alternative treatments, or prescription food.
Routine care like vaccinations typically requires separate wellness coverage, and pre-existing conditions are generally excluded unless specifically covered by certain companies.
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
- LegiScan. "Bill Text: NJ A1203 | 2024‑2025 | Regular Session | Amended."
- New Jersey Legislature. "Senate Bill No. 2034 (Pet Insurance Act)."
- NJ.com. "N.J. pet owners left howling as insurance rates surge by up to 47%."
- New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance. "Pet Health Insurers."