Lately, I have been spending more time around our home pets. While casually reading up on pet care and health, I stumbled upon something I had not really thought about before. Pet insurance is now available in India. Sometimes, just being aware is useful, even if you do not need them or immediately act on them.
For a lot of pet owners, animals are family. They become part of everyday life. Along with that companionship comes responsibility, especially when it comes to healthcare. Veterinary costs today are not insignificant. A routine visit can cost Rs. 1,000 to Rs. 2,000. Surgeries may go up to Rs. 50,000. Long term conditions like kidney issues or diabetes can mean regular medical expenses over time.
This is where pet insurance comes into the picture.
Pet insurance in India generally covers medical expenses arising from accidents or illnesses. This includes hospitalisation, surgeries, medicines, and sometimes ICU care or pre and post surgery expenses. Some policies also include third party liability cover, which helps if a pet accidentally injures someone or causes property damage. A few even offer coverage in case of theft or loss of pets.
Insurance providers such as Bajaj Allianz, New India Assurance, and Hdfc Ergo now offer pet insurance plans. The space is still new and evolving, and options are limited, but they do exist.
Premiums typically start under Rs. 500, with coverage ranging between Rs. 15,000 and Rs. 50,000 depending on factors like breed, age, and health condition. Like most insurance products, there are exclusions. Pre existing conditions are usually not covered, and waiting periods apply for certain treatments.
Is it necessary? That depends on individual circumstances. Some may prefer insurance for peace of mind, while others may choose not to opt for it. There is no right or wrong answer.
What felt important was simply knowing that this option exists. Awareness helps us make informed choices, when and if we need to.
At Moneybar, we often come across such new financial topics that do not always get discussed in our day to day life. Sometimes, learning something new and staying aware is a good place to start.
Paweii Kayina,
Founder, Moneybar
Monday, March 16, 2026