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Best Pet Insurance Texas

Pet Insurance options vary greatly among states. Here’s a look at the best pet insurance plans in Texas to keep your pet protected in the Lone Star State!

Written by
Lauren Rey
Last Update on Dec 7, 2023
Key Takeaways
  • Pet insurance is one of the best ways to save on your pet’s veterinary care
  • Insurance providers and plans can vary from state to state
  • Texas is a very pet-friendly state and has some great insurance options for pet owners
  • Like all states, Texas has some unique hazards that pet owners should be aware of to keep their pets safe and healthy

The Importance of Pet Insurance

Pet insurance is one of the best tools that pet owners can have to be financially prepared for their pet’s healthcare. This is especially true when it comes to unexpected veterinary bills when accidents or illnesses arise. Sadly, about one out of three pets will need emergency veterinary care every year and these bills can quickly add up. 

With ongoing rising inflation impacting nearly every aspect of our lives, many pet owners are finding the costs associated with caring for their pets like food, medicine, and veterinary care are also going up. Now more than ever, pet insurance can be one of the best ways to help manage these costs, in some cases, saving pet owners thousands. 

The Best Pet Insurance Plans in Texas 

Pet insurance options vary from state to state. Here’s a look at some of the best pet insurance plans available in Texas. 

Pets Best

Waiting Periods
3 days for accident coverage, 14 days for illness coverage, and 6 months for cruciate ligament coverage
Available Plans
Accident and Illness, Accident-only, and Wellness Plan (add-on)
Pets Covered
Dogs and Cats
Maximum Annual Coverage
$5,000 or unlimited
Reimbursement Choices
70%, 80%, or 90%
Deductible Choices
$50, $100, $250, $500, or $1,000
Discounts Available
5% multi-pet discount
Show More Details

Veterinarian-founded, Pets Best offers top-notch, affordable coverage for exams, diagnostics, treatments, surgeries, hospitalizations, prescription medications, and more.

Pros

  • Covers a wide variety of conditions, including dental illness
  • 24/7 Pet Telehealth access for policyholders
  • Emergency direct-vet-pay option

Cons

  • 6-month waiting period for cruciate ligament injury coverage
  • Bilateral conditions are not covered
Additional Details

Claims Process

  • Online, Pets Best App, or by email or fax

Lemonade

Waiting Periods
2 days for accident coverage, 14 days for illness coverage, and 6 months for cruciate ligament coverage
Available Plans
Accident and Illness Plan, Preventative Care, Preventative Care Plus, and Puppy/Kitten Plan
Pets Covered
Dogs and Cats
Maximum Annual Coverage
$5,000, $10,000, $20,000, $50,000, or $100,000
Reimbursement Choices
70%, 80%, or 90%
Deductible Choices
$100, $250, or $500
Discounts Available
5% multi-pet discount, 10% bundle discount when pairing with other plans (home, auto, renters, or life)
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Pros

  • Covers a wide range of conditions
  • Highly customizable coverage
  • Affordable plans for all budgets

Cons

  • Exam fees are not included in the base plan
  • No direct-vet-pay option
Additional Details

Known for its groundbreaking high-tech, AI-powered approach to insurance, Lemonade offers highly affordable coverage for diagnostics, lab work, treatments, surgeries, hospitalizations, and more.

Claims Process

  • AI-powered claims through the Lemonade App

Embrace

Waiting Periods
2 days for accident coverage, 14 days for illness coverage, and 6 months for orthopedic coverage
Available Plans
Accident and Illness, Accident-only, and Wellness Rewards (add-on)
Pets Covered
Dogs and Cats
Maximum Annual Coverage
$5,000, $8,000, $10,000, $15,000, or $30,000
Reimbursement Choices
70%, 80%, or 90%
Deductible Choices
$100, $250, $500, $750, or $1,000
Discounts Available
10% multi-pet discount, 5% military discount
Show More Details

Pros

  • Covers a wide range of conditions, including dental illness or injury
  • Offers policyholders access to 24/7 Pet Telehealth
  • Diminishing deductible perks for every year a pet goes without a claim

Cons

  • Orthopedic conditions have a 6-month waiting period (unless waived by exam)
  • No direct-vet-pay option
Additional Details

One of the leading pet insurance providers in the country, Embrace offers comprehensive customizable coverage for exams, diagnostics, treatments, surgeries, hospitalizations, prescription medications, and more.

Claims Process

  • Online, Embrace App, or by email or fax

ManyPets

Waiting Periods
15 days for all coverage (may be waived if switching providers)
Available Plans
Accident and Illness Plan and Wellness add-on
Pets Covered
Dogs and Cats
Maximum Annual Coverage
Unlimited
Reimbursement Choices
70% or 80%
Deductible Choices
$500
Discounts Available
None
Show More Details

Pros

  • Covers a wide range of conditions, including dental illness or injury
  • Unlimited coverage at an affordable price
  • No extended waiting periods for orthopedic conditions

Cons

  • Hip dysplasia is only covered in pets enrolled before 6 years of age
  • No direct-vet-pay option
Additional Details

One of the top pet insurance providers in the UK, ManyPets entered the US market recently and has quickly risen in popularity for its unlimited coverage and affordable plans. Coverage includes exams, diagnostics, treatments, surgeries, hospitalizations, prescription medications, and more.

Claims Process

  • Online portal

Figo

Waiting Periods
1 day for accident coverage, 14 days for illness coverage, and 6 months for orthopedic conditions
Available Plans
Only offers a single plan but optional “powerups” are offered to boost coverage which includes exam fee coverage, wellness options, and more
Pets Covered
Dogs and Cats
Maximum Annual Coverage
$5,000, $10,000, or unlimited
Reimbursement Choices
70%, 80%, 90%, or 100%
Deductible Choices
$100, $250, $500, or $750
Discounts Available
5% multi-pet discount
Show More Details

Pros

  • Covers a wide range of conditions, including dental illness and injury
  • Offers a 100% reimbursement option
  • Access to 24/7 Pet Telehealth and other perks with Figo Cloud

Cons

  • Exam fees are not included in the base plan (must be added as “power-ups”)
  • Orthopedic conditions have a 6-month waiting period
  • No direct-vet-pay option
Additional Details

Pet insurance founded by pet owners, Figo offers excellent base coverage plus optional “power-ups” for pet owners to tailor their plan to their pet’s unique needs. Coverage includes diagnostics, lab work, treatments, hospitalizations, surgeries, and more.

Claims Process

  • Digital claims are processed through the Figo Pet Cloud App

Disclaimer: As with all insurance, pre-existing conditions are excluded, changes in coverage or eligibility can occur, and other stipulations may apply. Get a personalized pet insurance quote for more details.

Texas Pet Hazards

Like all states, Texas has its own unique hazards that pet owners should be aware of and prepared for with pet insurance. Learning about these hazards, knowing how to prevent them, and knowing what to do if an incident occurs are all important for pet owners residing in the state. Here are some of the most common pet health hazards found in Texas: 

Heat

Texas is known for its extreme temperatures at times, especially in the desert regions. With heat waves that can top well over 100 degrees, pet owners need to be extra mindful of their four-legged friend’s safety. Even a short walk can quickly turn into a dangerous case of heatstroke, especially for dogs that are older, overweight, or brachycephalic (breeds with shortened, “smushed” noses like Bulldogs and Pugs). 

Signs of Heatstroke in Dogs:

  • Heavy panting/difficulty breathing
  • Bright red gums
  • Drooling
  • Excessive thirst/dehydration
  • Weakness/lethargy/collapse
  • Disorientation
  • Vomiting and diarrhea
  • Increased heart rate and body temperature
  • Seizures

Heatstroke in dogs can occur quickly and be fatal. If you suspect your dog is developing heatstroke, it’s imperative to bring them to the emergency vet immediately! While heatstroke is less common in cats, it can still occur. If you have an outdoor cat, be mindful of the heat and keep them inside during high temperatures. 

Practicing Heat Safety for Pets:

  • When outdoors, always make sure your pet has access to shade and water
  • Limit walks and keep your pets indoors during high temperatures
  • Don’t run, jog, hike, play fetch, or other forms of exercise with your pet in the heat
  • Never leave a pet in a parked car
  • Be mindful of the temperature of the sidewalk as these can burn paws

Toxic Algae 

While Texas has some beautiful lakes and coastal areas for water recreation, during the summer, these bodies of water can become a hazard to both humans and pets. High temperatures can cause toxic algal blooms to pop up in bodies of water across Texas, including the Gulf Coast beaches. The biggest danger typically occurs when dogs go for a swim or drink from water contaminated with toxic algae. 

Symptoms of Toxic Algae Exposure in Dogs: 

  • Weakness/collapse
  • Excessive drooling
  • Pale gums
  • Respiratory distress/heavy panting 
  • Disorientation/lack of coordination
  • Vomiting and diarrhea
  • Seizures 

Exposure to toxic algae is very dangerous and can cause liver failure, neurological problems, and sudden death. Dogs exposed to toxic algae should be brought to an emergency animal hospital right away. Unfortunately, even with early intervention, many dogs still succumb to the toxicity, so prevention is key. 

Preventing Toxic Algae Exposure in Dogs:

  • Check for posted warning signs around shorelines and local algal bloom maps
  • Never let your dog swim or play in or near water with suspected algal blooms
  • Keep pets away from all forms of stagnant water like puddles or birdbaths
  • Know the signs of toxic algae such as blue or green-tinted water, foamy appearance, foul smell, and dead fish
  • Keep dogs leashed when out on hikes around lakes and other bodies of water

Dangerous Wildlife and Plants

Texas is home to several species of venomous snakes, including rattlesnakes, copperheads, water moccasins, and coral snakes. Venomous spiders such as the Black Widow and Brown Recluse are also found in Texas. In South Texas, alligators can be found in lakes, ponds, and marshes. Across the entire state, coyotes may pose a danger to smaller pets. Lastly,   dangerous plants found in Texas include hemlock, which is highly toxic if ingested, and foxtails, which can become embedded in your dog’s skin, nose, and even travel to the lungs. 

Keeping Your Pets Safe From Dangerous Wildlife in Texas:

  • Don’t leave pets unattended outdoors
  • Keep dogs leashed, stay on marked trails, and be on the lookout for dangerous plants 
  • Use caution around woodpiles, bushes, and rocks where snakes or spiders might be lurking
  • Never let your dog swim or walk near the edge of bodies of water in gator territory 
  • Make sure your pet is up-to-date on their vaccines and parasite preventatives, in some regions, your veterinarian may recommend the rattlesnake vaccine

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What Is The Average Cost Of Pet Insurance In Texas?

Texas pet owners will spend an average of $30 to $50 per month for a dog, and $20 to $30 per month for a cat for pet insurance. While these are some average ranges, it’s important to note that pet insurance is highly individualized. Premiums are determined by your individual pet’s breed, age, sex, medical history, and location. Your choice of coverage, deductible, and reimbursement rate will also affect your final monthly costs. 

What Is The Average Cost Of Veterinary Care In Texas?

The cost of veterinary care in Texas is comparable to the national average, but being such a large state, individual costs can vary widely by region. Rural areas of Texas are known to have lower costs than big cities like Dallas or Houston. Overall, Texas veterinary costs are similar to states like Michigan, Ohio, and North Carolina, but lower than states with higher cost-of-living rates like New York, California, and Massachusetts. 

How Does Pet Insurance In Texas Compare To Other States?

Overall, pet owners will find that the pet insurance market in Texas is fair and consistent with the national average. Most top pet insurance providers offer plans in Texas, and there are no outstanding exceptions or exclusions specific to the state. Options for coverage, deductibles, and reimbursement rates are also similar to other average states. Most Texas pet owners can find a plan that meets their pet’s needs and their budget. 

Are There Any Special Pet Insurance Discounts Available In Texas?

There are no special pet insurance discounts specific to Texas, but some providers do offer other types of discounts that are available in all states. These sometimes include multi-pet discounts, discounts for bundling with other services like home or auto (only available with certain companies), or discounts for pet owners who have served in the military. Sometimes promotional offers are available for newly adopted pets. Check with your provider for a full list of available discounts.  

Find out more

With 15 years of experience in the veterinary industry, Lauren is well-versed in the world of pet insurance. She’s a content writer for several online pet publications and loves to help pet parents stay informed. When not researching the latest pet news, you’ll probably find her off on an adventure with her rescue dog Pickles.