This article explains pet insurance quote information in plain English, so UK pet owners can understand the question being answered before comparing policies or reading the small print.
Getting a pet insurance quote is fairly straightforward, but having a few things ready before you start makes the process quicker. Here's what you'll typically need to provide.
About your pet
This is the core of any quote. You'll usually need:
- Species: dog, cat, rabbit and so on
- Breed: pedigree, crossbreed or mixed breed
- Age: date of birth if you know it, or an approximate age
- Sex: male or female
- Neutered or not: this can affect the premium
- Name: not always required at the quote stage but often asked
Breed matters more than people sometimes expect. Some breeds carry higher premiums because they're statistically more likely to need veterinary treatment. Flat-faced breeds, certain large breeds and some pedigree cats tend to cost more to insure than crossbreeds.
Your pet's health history
Most quote forms will ask whether your pet has any pre-existing conditions or has had recent veterinary treatment. Answer this honestly. If you don't disclose something and then try to claim for it later, the insurer may refuse the claim or cancel your policy.
If your pet is young and has only had routine check-ups and vaccinations, this section is usually quick to complete. If your pet has had treatment for anything, it's worth having a rough idea of what and when.
"Answer health history questions honestly. Non-disclosure can result in a claim being refused."
Your details
You'll need to provide your postcode, as premiums vary by location, and basic contact details. Some insurers ask for your pet's microchip number, particularly for dogs, though this isn't always required at the quote stage.
What level of cover you want
Most quote tools will ask you to choose a cover type, whether that's accident-only, time-limited or lifetime cover, and sometimes a cover limit. If you're not sure which type suits you, our guide to pet insurance types explains the differences clearly before you commit to anything.
What you don't need
You don't need your pet's full vet records to get a quote. You don't need to have decided which policy you want. A quote is just an estimate based on the information you provide, and you can get several quotes from different places before making any decisions.
Having a rough idea of your budget and which type of cover interests you makes it easier to compare quotes like for like once you have them.
This article is for general information only and does not constitute advice of any kind.