Best Pet Insurance for Cats with Pre-Existing Conditions in the UK

Understanding Pre-Existing Conditions in Pet Insurance

A pre-existing condition is any illness, injury, or health issue your cat has been diagnosed with before the policy start date. Insurance companies typically do not cover pre-existing conditions, considering them as “known risks.” However, some insurers provide limited coverage, especially for conditions that are stable or have been treated and are no longer a concern.

It’s important to differentiate between chronic conditions, such as diabetes or arthritis, which may be covered under lifetime policies, and conditions that were ongoing or untreated before the policy started. Make sure to fully disclose any pre-existing conditions when applying for insurance to avoid claim rejections later on.

Best Pet Insurance Providers for Cats with Pre-Existing Conditions

While not all pet insurers will cover pre-existing conditions, a few providers in the UK offer policies that may include coverage under certain circumstances. Here’s a look at some of the best options for insuring cats with pre-existing conditions in 2025:

1. Agria Pet Insurance

Agria is one of the few pet insurance providers that offer cover for pre-existing conditions, especially for cats that have had stable and well-managed conditions. They offer lifetime cover, which is particularly beneficial for pets with chronic or ongoing health issues.

Key Features:

• Lifetime cover with coverage for ongoing conditions
• Pre-existing conditions considered on a case-by-case basis, especially if the condition is stable
• Up to £20,000 annual cover for veterinary fees
• Free 24/7 vet video consultations

Pricing: Agria’s premiums typically start around £5-£6 per month, depending on the age and breed of your cat, as well as the coverage level chosen.

2. Petplan

Petplan is another leading insurer that may provide coverage for pre-existing conditions, especially if the condition is managed and under control. They offer a range of policies, including lifetime cover, which is beneficial for pets with long-term health issues.

Key Features:

• Lifetime cover for accidents, illnesses, and ongoing conditions
• 97% claims paid rate
• No premium increase after making a claim (on some policies)
• Highly praised customer service

Pricing: Petplan’s premiums start at around £6 per month, but the cost will vary depending on the breed, age, and medical history of your cat.

3. Direct Line Pet Insurance

Direct Line offers flexible policies with lifetime coverage options, which may help cats with pre-existing conditions. They are known for providing affordable rates for comprehensive cover, including treatments for chronic conditions, especially if they have been stable for a period of time.

Key Features:

• Lifetime cover for accidents and illnesses
• Up to £12,000 annual vet fee cover
• Fast claims processing with a 30-day cooling-off period

Pricing: Premiums typically start from £7 per month, depending on the coverage level and your cat’s health status.

4. ManyPets

ManyPets is an emerging provider known for offering flexible lifetime cover options, including coverage for pre-existing conditions under specific circumstances. Their policies can be tailored to suit your cat’s needs, including providing coverage for dental treatments, which can be essential for older cats with dental issues.

Key Features:

• Lifetime cover with optional coverage for dental care
• Pre-existing conditions may be considered if stable
• Direct vet payment available for quicker claims processing

Pricing: Premiums start at £5.50 per month, but the final cost will depend on the specifics of your cat’s condition and the coverage level.

5. PDSA Pet Insurance

PDSA provides affordable pet insurance with lifetime and time-limited policies. They are known for covering a wide range of conditions, and their lifetime policies offer the best chance for covering pre-existing conditions that have been managed and controlled. PDSA is also a charity, which can make it an appealing option for those who want to support a cause while insuring their pet.

Key Features:

• Lifetime and time-limited policies
• 97% claims paid in five working days
• Offers free vet helpline
• Discounts for multi-pet households

Pricing: Premiums vary based on the type of cover and the breed of the cat, but they generally start at around £4-£6 per month.

Tips for Choosing the Best Pet Insurance for Cats with Pre-Existing Conditions

Finding the right pet insurance for a cat with a pre-existing condition can be challenging, but with a bit of research and patience, you can find a plan that meets your needs. Here are some essential tips for selecting the best policy:

• Check the Exclusions: Make sure to carefully review the policy details to understand what’s excluded. Some insurers may offer partial coverage for stable pre-existing conditions, while others may not offer any coverage at all.
• Look for Lifetime Cover: Lifetime coverage is the most comprehensive option, especially for cats with chronic or long-term conditions. It ensures that your cat will have continuous cover for the duration of the condition.
• Consider the Waiting Period: Some insurers impose a waiting period before coverage begins, particularly for pre-existing conditions. Be sure to check the terms to avoid surprises when you need to make a claim.
• Compare Premiums and Excess Fees: Don’t just look at the premium cost; also consider the excess fees (the amount you must pay before a claim is paid). A higher excess can reduce the premium, but may lead to more out-of-pocket costs when claiming.
• Ask About Discounts: Some providers offer discounts for multi-pet households, which can help reduce the overall cost of insurance. Additionally, some insurers may offer lower premiums for older cats or those with fewer health issues.

Conclusion

Insuring a cat with pre-existing conditions doesn’t have to be a daunting task. While many pet insurance providers exclude coverage for pre-existing conditions, several insurers in the UK offer tailored policies that can help. Agria, Petplan, Direct Line, ManyPets, and PDSA are some of the best options to consider in 2025 for cats with pre-existing conditions.

By understanding your options, comparing coverage levels, and asking the right questions, you can ensure that your cat receives the best possible care without financial strain. Always read the fine print, and consider working with an insurance advisor if you need additional help navigating your options.