PawGuard may earn a commission if you purchase a policy through a partner. That does not change the price you pay. Plan names and options vary by carrier.
Most comparison pages show three buckets. Understanding the buckets first makes the quotes easier to read.
Accident-only
This type is built for unexpected injuries — a broken bone, a swallowed toy, a bite wound, a laceration.
It generally does not cover illnesses such as cancer, infections, or chronic disease. The premium is often lower because the plan covers a narrower set of events.
It can be a fit if you mainly want help with sudden trauma and you accept that illness bills stay with you.
Accident + illness
This is the core medical pet insurance product for many households. After waiting periods, it typically helps with both injuries and new illnesses.
It is still not “everything.” Pre-existing conditions, waiting periods, deductibles, and exclusions still apply. Routine vaccines and annual exams are often not included unless you add wellness.
If your goal is protection against a large, unexpected medical bill, this is usually the type to compare first.
Wellness (often an add-on)
Wellness coverage is designed for predictable, routine care: exams, vaccines, sometimes dental cleanings, heartworm tests, or fecal tests.
It is closer to a budget helper than to insurance for a crisis. Some carriers sell it only as an add-on to a medical plan. Others sell a standalone wellness product.
Run the numbers. If the add-on costs more than you typically spend on routine care, it may not be worth it.
A simple way to choose
- Want help only with injuries? Start with accident-only.
- Want help with injuries and new illnesses? Start with accident + illness.
- Want help with annual checkups too? Ask whether wellness is bundled or extra — then compare the cost against your usual vet visit.
Then look at waiting periods, deductibles, and reimbursement. The type of plan is the first filter, not the last.
Related reading: Waiting periods and deductibles · Coverage overview