10 Reasons to Buy Pet Insurance for Your Puppy or Kitten

There are endless ways for puppies and kittens to get into mischief. While getting tangled in a blanket or knocking over a cup can be adorable, many incidents aren’t so cute — and may require veterinary care. The unexpected expense may be difficult to manage, but pet insurance can help you prepare for your young pet’s antics and accidents.

Here are 10 reasons why a pet insurance policy is a good idea for your puppy or kitten.

1. Unexpected Illness Coverage

It takes a while for puppies and kittens to develop a strong immune system, leaving them susceptible to various illnesses and infections. If your pup suddenly develops parvo or your kitten catches a respiratory infection, pet insurance can help cover the cost of diagnostic tests and treatment, including hospitalization if necessary.

2. Accident Protection

Active puppies and kittens are notorious for getting themselves into dangerous situations. While some accidents, such as your puppy straining a muscle, are no big deal, others, such as your cat ingesting a toxin, can be life-threatening. Unfortunately, emergency care for accidents can be costly. When an accident occurs, you want to be able to provide the care your pet needs without straining your budget. A pet insurance policy can help defray the cost, allowing you to focus on your pet’s recovery.

3. Peace of Mind

According to Synchrony's 2025 Pet Lifetime of Care Study, almost half of pet owners surveyed reported that an unexpected expense causes financial concern.¹ However, less than 25% have savings or a pet insurance policy in place to help them cover the cost of unexpected veterinary care.¹ Having a pet insurance policy provides peace of mind, knowing you can provide the care your pet needs in any situation, and your decisions won’t rely solely on finances.

4. Early Life Health Conditions

Pets are most likely to develop illnesses at two times during their lives: at the beginning and at the end. Some conditions, such as hereditary and congenital diseases, are likely to present early in life. Additionally, puppies and kittens are susceptible to parasites and infections. These health issues can cause significant, sometimes life-threatening illnesses. If your puppy or kitten gets sick, pet insurance can help cover the cost of diagnostic testing and treatment.

5. Routine Care Support

Although people often relate pet insurance to accident and illness coverage, many policies also offer optional add-on coverage for routine wellness care. These plans typically reimburse a set amount for various wellness services — such as annual visits, vaccinations and parasite prevention — that are important for a young pet’s development as well as their life-long good health.

6. Budget Management

Veterinary care can be costly, especially if a serious illness or accident arises. Pet insurance can help you prepare for large or unexpected veterinary bills by spreading the cost of coverage into monthly premiums. If your pet suddenly needs care, you will only be responsible for the deductible and the percentage of the bill that remains (typically 10% to 30%) after your insurance company covers its portion.

7. Access to Better Care Options

We now have veterinary care that is on par with human healthcare. However, advanced care often involves equipment and expertise that are much more costly than general care. Without pet insurance, you may have to settle for less advanced care for your pet’s condition. Financial support can make it easier to pursue advanced diagnostics or treatments that improve your pet’s quality of life and are more likely to result in a positive outcome.

8. Coverage Longevity

The price of enrolling in a pet insurance plan depends on many factors, including your pet’s age. As your pet gets older, their risk of developing an age-related health condition increases, which will mean a higher monthly premium. When you enroll your pet as a young, healthy puppy or kitten, your monthly premium will be lower. Although your premium may increase over time, it will likely be lower than if you had enrolled them later on. Enrolling your pet early also helps ensure continuous coverage as they age.

9. Support for Multiple Pets

Adopting more than one young pet multiplies the love and fun — and the expense. Caring for multiple young pets can quickly become costly. Pet insurance can help ensure you are financially prepared for any illness or emergency that your young companions develop.

10. Protection Against Hereditary Issues

Some breeds are prone to developing hereditary issues down the road. For example, Cavalier King Charles spaniels often develop hereditary heart issues as they age. If your puppy or kitten’s breed increases their risk of a hereditary disease, pet insurance can assist with medical expenses should the condition cause problems at some point.

Coverage for Life’s Unexpected Events

A puppy or kitten can add so much to your life, but significant expense doesn’t have to be on the list. Purchasing a pet insurance policy when your pet is young can provide a financial safety net so unexpected care doesn’t strain your budget. It can also provide peace of mind, knowing you are prepared for the care your pet needs, no matter what comes your way.

CareCredit Credit Card Financing for Pets

Taking good care of your pet’s well-being from nose to tail is essential. Make sure to stay up to date on their regular checkups at the vet to help keep your pet happy and healthy for a lifetime of love. You can use your CareCredit credit card for pet care throughout the year for routine veterinary services as well as emergencies and surgeries.* Use our Acceptance Locator to find a veterinarian near you that accepts CareCredit.

CareCredit is there for you and your pet every step of the way; continue your wellness journey by downloading the CareCredit Mobile App to manage your account, find a provider on the go and easily access the Well U blog for more great articles, podcasts and videos.

In addition to pet care, you can also use your CareCredit credit card for dentistry, cosmetic, vision, hearing, health systems, dermatology, pharmacy purchases, spa treatments and so much more within the CareCredit network. How will you invest in your health and wellness next?

Author Bio

Angela Beal, D.V.M., has more than 20 years of experience as a veterinarian. Leveraging her background in private practice and academia, she uses her passion for writing to convey information to pet owners to help them keep their pets healthy and happy.