Pet insurance: when a dog or cat becomes part of the family

More than two and a half million dogs and almost two million cats live in Czech households today. Pets are part of the family — they share our joy, free time, and holidays. And just like us, they can get sick or injured.

Modern veterinary care is excellent, but it’s also expensive — a standard procedure can cost several thousand or even tens of thousands of Czech crowns, while complex surgeries may reach into the high tens of thousands. That’s why pet insurance is becoming an increasingly common part of family finances.

What insurers consider when you take out a policy

Each insurance company requires basic information about your pet:

• Age and breed – some breeds are considered higher risk.
• Health condition and medical history – past surgeries or chronic illnesses may affect eligibility.
• Identification – pets must usually be microchipped or tattooed.
• Lifestyle – in some cases, whether the pet lives mostly indoors or outdoors also plays a role.

What pet insurance typically covers

Accidents, illnesses, surgeries, diagnostic tests (X-rays, blood tests), hospitalization, medication and materials, assistance services, and in some plans also liability insurance or premium care such as rehabilitation and physiotherapy.

What to watch out for – common exclusions

Congenital defects, genetic disorders, preventive treatments (vaccination, deworming), cosmetic procedures, and treatment of illnesses that occurred before the policy was taken out or during the waiting period. Some products also exclude coverage for incidents happening during competitions, races, or abroad.

How much it costs

In most cases, the monthly premium ranges from CZK 300 to 600, depending on the pet’s age, breed, chosen coverage limits, and health condition.

TIP: It’s best to insure your pet when it’s young — premiums are much lower, and the rate usually remains fixed for the entire duration of the policy, that is, the pet’s lifetime.

Pets as family members

Dogs and cats today are no longer “just pets” — they’ve become full-fledged members of the family. The number of services devoted to them is growing, from dog hotels to wellness centers and insurance options.

There are countless products on the market, but not all of them make sense for every client. If you’re considering which insurance plan to choose for your four-legged friend, talk to your financial advisor — they can help you find a solution that truly makes sense.