Last updated: September 9, 2025
Introduction
When searching for cheap pet insurance UK 2025, most owners really mean: what is the cheapest pet insurance available? In this guide, we break down the cheapest policy types, the providers with low-cost options, and the trade-offs you need to consider before choosing.
Our research shows that the “cheapest” option usually means accident-only or time-limited cover. While these can cost as little as £5–10 a month, they don’t always provide the protection you might need for long-term conditions.
For broader context, you can also compare our Best Pet Insurance UK 2025 guide to see whether upgrading from the cheapest option might save money long-term.
What is the Cheapest Type of Pet Insurance?
1. Accident-Only Cover
- Cheapest of all types — premiums start around £5–8/month.
- Covers only accidents, not illness.
- Very limited but works for low-risk pets or owners mainly wanting financial backup for emergencies.
2. Time-Limited Cover
- Usually starts from £10–15/month.
- Covers illness and accidents, but only for 12 months per condition.
- A budget-friendly middle ground.
3. Maximum Benefit Cover
- From £15–20/month.
- Sets a limit per condition. Once used, that condition is excluded.
- Affordable for one-off conditions, but not ideal for chronic illness.
4. Lifetime Cover
- The most expensive, starting around £20–25/month.
- Includes ongoing conditions (if you keep renewing).
- Not the “cheapest” monthly, but often the best long-term value.
Cheapest Pet Insurance Providers UK 2025
While prices vary by pet age, breed, and location, these providers are known for offering cheaper entry-level cover:
| Provider | Cheapest Policy Type | From Price (approx) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tesco Bank | Time-Limited | £12/month | Clubcard discount available |
| Animal Friends | Accident-Only | £5/month | One of the lowest cost providers |
| ASDA Money | Time-Limited | £10/month | Backed by a major supermarket |
| Agria | Lifetime only | £20/month | Premium policies, not the cheapest |
| Sainsbury’s Bank | Maximum Benefit | £15/month | Nectar points bonus |
Note: prices are examples only and will vary by pet profile.
Cheapest Pet Insurance for Dogs
Dog owners searching for cheap dog insurance UK often find that premiums are higher than for cats. Small breeds tend to be cheaper, while larger breeds and pedigree dogs cost more to insure.
- Accident-only cover may be £6–10/month.
- Time-limited policies often £15–25/month.
- Lifetime cover for dogs usually starts from £25–30/month+.
See our dedicated guide to Cheap Dog Insurance UK 2025 for more detail.
Cheapest Pet Insurance for Cats
Cats are usually cheaper to insure than dogs. Owners searching cheap cat insurance UK can often find very low monthly premiums.
- Accident-only cover from around £5/month.
- Time-limited cover from £10–15/month.
- Lifetime cover for cats often £15–20/month.
See our full Cheap Cat Insurance UK 2025 article for the best cat-specific options.
Things to Consider Before Choosing the Cheapest Cover
- Exclusions matter: routine care, vaccinations, and pre-existing conditions are never included in “cheapest” cover.
- Renewal price rises: even cheap policies usually increase each year as your pet ages.
- Excess levels: the cheapest premium may come with a higher excess.
- Chronic conditions: lifetime policies cost more, but may save you money if your pet develops diabetes, arthritis, or cancer.
Alternatives to Cheapest Cover
If you want better protection, compare with:
- Best Pet Insurance UK 2025
- Lifetime Pet Insurance UK 2025
- Pet Insurance for Pre-Existing Conditions UK 2025
Conclusion
The cheapest pet insurance UK 2025 usually means accident-only or time-limited cover. While these policies can cost as little as £5–15/month, they won’t suit everyone — especially if your pet develops an ongoing illness.
For owners wanting the lowest monthly premium, providers like Animal Friends and ASDA are worth exploring. But if you want the best long-term value, compare against lifetime policies before making your decision.
FAQs
What is the cheapest pet insurance in the UK?
Accident-only policies are usually the cheapest, starting around £5–8/month. Animal Friends is one of the cheapest providers.
Is accident-only cover worth it?
It’s the cheapest option, but it only covers accidents, not illness. It may work for young, low-risk pets but is risky for long-term needs.
Which provider has the cheapest pet insurance?
Animal Friends often ranks cheapest, but Tesco, ASDA and Sainsbury’s also offer low-cost entry-level cover.
Can I get cheap lifetime cover?
Yes, but “cheap” is relative. Lifetime cover often starts from £20–25/month, which is more expensive upfront but may save money if your pet has ongoing conditions.
How can I reduce my premium?
Choose a higher excess, insure multiple pets for discounts, and use loyalty schemes (e.g. Tesco Clubcard or Sainsbury’s Nectar points).
Conclusion
Cheap pet insurance UK 2025 policies can provide an affordable safety net, particularly for younger pets. Brands like Tesco, ASDA, Animal Friends, and Sainsbury’s offer competitively priced cover that still includes essential protection.
While accident-only or time-limited insurance is the cheapest, it’s important to balance affordability with peace of mind. Spending a little more on maximum benefit or lifetime policies could save you thousands if your pet develops an illness.
🐾 Compare the best cheap pet insurance UK 2025 policies, review trusted sources like the RSPCA, and check out our Pet Insurance Guides to find the right cover for your furry friend.
