Last updated: September 8, 2025
Introduction
One of the most common questions UK pet owners ask is: “Can I get pet insurance for pre-existing conditions?” Unfortunately, the answer is usually no. Most standard policies exclude any illness or injury that was diagnosed before the insurance started.
But in 2025, more specialist providers are offering policies that cover certain pre-existing conditions, often with restrictions. If your cat or dog has a history of health problems, it’s important to know what your options are.
This guide explains what counts as a pre-existing condition, why most insurers exclude them, the providers that may still offer cover, and how these policies compare in price and protection.
What Counts as a Pre-Existing Condition?
A pre-existing condition is any illness, injury, or health issue your pet had before the policy began. Examples include:
- Chronic illnesses such as diabetes, arthritis, or kidney disease.
- Previous injuries like fractures or cruciate ligament problems.
- Dental issues that required treatment before cover started.
- Skin conditions such as allergies or dermatitis.
Even if your pet has been symptom-free for months, many insurers still treat the issue as pre-existing.
Why Do Most Policies Exclude Them?
Insurance works by spreading risk. Covering known health issues would make premiums unaffordable for everyone. For that reason, most UK pet insurers exclude pre-existing conditions entirely.
However, some insurers make exceptions:
- Conditions that have been resolved for 24 months or more may no longer count.
- Some providers cover recurring conditions if your pet has been symptom-free for a set period.
Standard Exclusions for Pre-Existing Conditions
Most insurers will not cover:
- Ongoing treatment for conditions diagnosed before policy start.
- Recurring issues linked to a past illness or injury.
- Congenital or hereditary conditions (common in pedigree breeds).
- Dental treatment required before the policy began.
This is why owners of pets with long-term health problems often face higher costs or fewer choices.
Policies That May Cover Pre-Existing Conditions in 2025
While most mainstream providers exclude them, a few insurers specialise in covering pets with medical histories:
VetsMediCover
- Offers policies for pets with certain pre-existing conditions.
- May exclude the condition for the first 24 months, then review cover.
Bought By Many (ManyPets)
- Some policies include “pre-existing condition cover” if the pet has been symptom-free for 2 years.
- Still excludes chronic or ongoing illnesses.
Lifetime Policies
- Comprehensive but usually exclude pre-existing issues.
- However, they are the best option for protecting your pet against future chronic conditions.
- See our full guide to Lifetime Pet Insurance UK 2025.
Pros of Pre-Existing Condition Cover
- ✅ Provides peace of mind if your pet has a medical history.
- ✅ May cover conditions considered “cured” after a symptom-free period.
- ✅ Protects against new issues that arise.
Cons of Pre-Existing Condition Cover
- ❌ More expensive premiums than standard policies.
- ❌ Limited choice of providers.
- ❌ Often excludes the most serious chronic conditions.
- ❌ Restrictions such as waiting periods or reduced payouts.
Average Cost of Cover for Pets with Pre-Existing Conditions
Premiums vary widely, but owners should expect higher prices:
- Cats: £20–£30 per month (vs £8–£15 for standard cover).
- Dogs (small breeds): £25–£40 per month.
- Dogs (large breeds): £40–£70+ per month.
This makes it crucial to compare policies carefully.
Best Options for UK Pet Owners in 2025
- Petplan – Leading lifetime provider, but excludes pre-existing conditions. Best for covering new health issues long-term.
- ManyPets – Offers pre-existing condition policies for pets who’ve been symptom-free for 2 years.
- VetsMediCover – Niche provider that may cover conditions after a waiting period.
- Animal Friends / Tesco / Waggel – Budget-friendly but exclude pre-existing entirely.
👉 For a full market comparison, see our Best Pet Insurance UK 2025 guide.
Alternatives if You Can’t Get Cover
If no insurer will cover your pet’s condition:
- Pet savings plan – set aside money each month for vet bills.
- Charity support – the PDSA may help with costs if you meet their criteria.
- Budget-friendly policies – consider Accident-Only Cover for emergencies.
FAQs About Pre-Existing Conditions and Pet Insurance
Can you get pet insurance if your pet already has a condition?
Yes, but most insurers exclude pre-existing conditions. Some, like ManyPets, may cover them if your pet has been symptom-free for 2 years.
What if my pet has been healthy for two years?
Some insurers stop classing the condition as pre-existing after 24 months without symptoms, meaning cover may be available.
Are hereditary conditions covered by pet insurance?
Usually not if diagnosed before cover starts. Lifetime policies may cover new hereditary issues that arise in the future.
Can I switch insurers if my pet has a condition?
Yes, but the condition will likely be excluded by the new insurer. It’s usually best to stick with your current provider.
Is dental disease classed as a pre-existing condition?
Yes, if diagnosed before the policy began. See our Dental Cover Guide for more details.
Key Takeaway
Finding pet insurance for pre-existing conditions in the UK is challenging, but options do exist in 2025. Specialist providers like ManyPets and VetsMediCover may offer limited protection, while mainstream insurers focus on new conditions only.
For long-term peace of mind, a Lifetime Pet Insurance policy is still the best way to protect against future health issues. If your pet already has conditions, compare specialist cover, consider accident-only policies, and budget separately for ongoing care.
