Free checklist

Questions to Ask Before Buying Pet Insurance

By PetAssured Editorial Team • Last reviewed : July 27, 2026

These are the questions to ask before buying pet insurance in Canada — the coverage, cost, claims and fine-print questions that expose the gaps an insurer won't volunteer. Ask them before you enrol and you'll avoid the two worst surprises: a denied claim and a policy that costs far more than it pays.

The single most important one is how the insurer defines a pre-existing condition — it's the number-one reason claims are denied. Here's a taste of the checklist:

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Frequently asked questions

What should I ask before buying pet insurance in Canada?
Ask how the insurer defines a pre-existing condition, whether hereditary and dental issues are covered, what the annual or per-condition payout cap is, whether premiums rise with age or after a claim, what the deductible and reimbursement percentage are, and what the waiting periods are for accidents, illness and orthopedic conditions. The full printable checklist on this page groups every question by category.
What's the most important question to ask a pet insurer?
How you define a pre-existing condition — because it's the single biggest reason claims are denied. Get the definition in writing, ask whether a 'cured' condition can ever be covered again, and enrol while your pet is young and healthy so there's little history to exclude.
Are these questions specific to Canada?
Yes. This checklist is written for Canadian shoppers — CAD costs, Canadian insurers, and the coverage rules that apply here. It's a general planning tool, not advice on a specific policy; always read the actual policy wording and confirm details with the insurer.