Buying Pet Insurance in Singapore

Our pets can become sick or injured, and the cost of treating these health issues can sometimes be unexpectedly high. Even if your dog is healthy, accidents can happen—such as swallowing a foreign object or developing an unexpected medical condition—that may require expensive treatment. Pet insurance is essentially a financial safety net that helps you cover these unforeseen medical expenses, reducing the burden on your wallet.

The main benefit of pet insurance is that it can help you pay for those large medical bills that can quickly add up. With insurance, your dog can receive timely treatment without you having to worry about the financial implications. Additionally, having pet insurance often allows you to access better-quality healthcare options for your dog, as you won’t be limited by the costs of treatment. Instead of focusing on the financial strain, you can focus on being there for your pet when they need you most, knowing that their care is covered.

Pet Insurers in Singapore

The pet insurance market in Singapore has expanded significantly since its inception. Liberty Insurance was the first to introduce pet insurance in the country with their PetCare plan in 2014. Since then, several other insurance companies have followed suit, offering a range of options for pet owners looking to protect their pets. Here are some of the key players in the Singaporean pet insurance market as of 2025:

Liberty PetCare by Liberty Insurance

Liberty PetCare, offered by Liberty Insurance, was one of the first pet insurance plans introduced in Singapore, establishing itself as a reliable option for pet owners. It offers a comprehensive range of coverage tailored for both dogs and cats. The plan covers various treatment types, including accidental death and injury, hospitalisation and surgery, as well as post-surgery treatment. Liberty PetCare is particularly beneficial for pet owners seeking an extensive coverage plan that addresses a wide range of potential health issues for their pets.

Key Features

• Comprehensive coverage options for dogs and cats.
• Coverage for accidental injury and death, hospitalisation, surgery, and more.
• Optional add-ons to expand coverage.
• Offers both standard and premium plans, depending on the level of coverage you require.
• Reliable claims process with a good reputation for customer service.

https://www.libertyinsurance.com.sg/petcare

AON Happy Tails, underwritten by NTUC Income

AON Happy Tails, underwritten by NTUC Income, is a popular choice in Singapore for pet owners who want flexibility and a range of coverage options. This insurance plan provides essential coverage for common accidents and illnesses, along with the option for additional benefits. Happy Tails is particularly well-suited for younger pets due to its coverage structure, but it also caters to older pets with additional coverage options for age-related conditions. They also offer a more affordable entry-level plan, making it accessible to those looking for budget-friendly pet insurance.

Key Features

• Multiple coverage tiers, making it suitable for different budgets and needs.
• Covers accidents, illnesses, surgery, and hospitalization.
• Includes liability coverage for third-party damage or injury caused by your pet.
• Offers discounts for pets that undergo pre-insurance health checks at their partner clinics.
• Quick and efficient claims processing with positive customer feedback.

https://www.aonhappytails.com/

CIMB My Paw Pal

CIMB My Paw Pal is a more affordable pet insurance option that provides basic to mid-range coverage for pets in Singapore. The plan includes essential coverage for accidents, illness, and medical treatments, but may not cover as wide a range of services as some of the more premium plans. This plan is best suited for pet owners who are looking for an economical option that covers basic veterinary needs without excessive add-ons. The policy offers flexibility for pet owners seeking basic, no-frills insurance.

Key Features

• Offers coverage for essential treatments, such as accidents and illnesses.
• More affordable compared to other comprehensive pet insurance plans.
• Provides coverage for outpatient visits and hospitalization.
• Simplified claims process and accessible customer support.
• Good option for younger, healthier pets without a history of serious health issues.

https://www.cimb.com.sg/en/personal/banking-with-us/insurance/general-insurance/cimb-my-paw-pal.html

Tiq Pet Insurance, offered by Etiqa

Tiq Pet Insurance, offered by Etiqa, is another reliable pet insurance provider in Singapore. It is well-regarded for providing flexible plans that can be tailored to suit the needs of individual pets. The plan covers accidents, illnesses, surgeries, and even some more complex treatments like cancer. Etiqa’s Tiq Pet Insurance also offers discounts through promo codes, making it an attractive option for pet owners who are looking for ways to save. With a strong reputation for customer service, Etiqa makes the process of purchasing and managing pet insurance easy for customers.

Key Features

• Comprehensive coverage for accidents, illnesses, surgeries, and specialist treatments.
• Discount options available through promo codes, offering significant savings.
• Easy-to-understand policy terms with no hidden fees.
• Offers plans that cover a range of treatments, including preventive care and long-term health management.
• Reliable customer service and simple claims process.

https://www.tiq.com.sg/product/pet-insurance/

Silversky Protect, underwritten by MSIG

Silversky Protect, underwritten by MSIG, offers comprehensive coverage for dogs and cats, with a variety of options tailored to the needs of different pets. It stands out for its focus on providing extensive coverage that includes both common treatments and more specialized care, such as dental treatment due to accidents or illnesses. Silversky Protect also includes coverage for third-party liability, which is a valuable addition for pet owners who want to protect themselves in case their pet causes damage or injury to others.

Key Features

• Wide range of coverage, including accident, illness, surgery, and third-party liability.
• Coverage for dental treatment following accidents or illnesses.
• Flexible coverage options that allow pet owners to choose the right level of protection for their pet.
• Offers both lifetime and non-lifetime coverage plans.
• Claims process is straightforward, with assistance available for any questions or concerns.

https://silverskyprotect.silversky.com.sg/

These pet insurance plans each offer different benefits, coverage types, and price points, catering to various pet needs and budgets. Depending on your pet’s health, age, and the level of coverage you’re seeking, one of these options will likely provide the right balance of protection and affordability. Be sure to assess your pet’s unique circumstances and choose a plan that gives you peace of mind while offering the best protection for your furry companion.

These plans primarily cater to dogs and cats, providing a variety of options for pet owners looking to cover unexpected events. While some providers offer more comprehensive plans, others focus on more affordable, basic coverage.

Types of Pet Insurance Coverage Available

When it comes to the coverage provided by pet insurance plans in Singapore, you’ll find several types designed to address different needs. Pet insurance typically includes coverage for accidents, injuries, and a variety of medical treatments. Common types of coverage include:

• Accidental Death & Injury Coverage: This coverage helps to compensate for the cost of treatment or compensation in the event of accidental death or injury. This can include injuries from accidents or sudden fatal events.
• Non-Surgery-Related Treatment: Not all medical treatments require surgery, and this coverage ensures that your dog’s health is taken care of even if the treatment is non-invasive.
• Hospitalisation & Surgical Treatment: This covers the cost of your pet’s stay in a hospital and the surgery required for serious health issues, such as infections, fractures, or internal issues that require an operation.
• Room and Board Fees: Many pet insurance plans also cover the cost of boarding your dog in a vet clinic while they recover from a medical issue or surgery.
• Post-Surgery Treatment: Once surgery is completed, your pet may require follow-up care, such as rehabilitation or further treatments. Insurance coverage for post-surgery treatment ensures that these additional costs are covered.
• Specific Disease Coverage: Some plans cover the costs of treating specific diseases, such as cancer. Cancer treatments can be expensive, and having insurance can make these costs more manageable.
• Third-Party Liability: If your dog causes harm to another person or damages their property, this coverage protects you from legal and financial repercussions.
• Theft Coverage: In the unfortunate event that your dog is stolen, some pet insurance plans will help you recover the financial loss or assist in locating your pet.
• Final Expenses: This coverage helps with end-of-life expenses, such as euthanasia or cremation services.

Some international insurance providers also extend coverage to include:

• Overseas Travel Medical Expenses: For medical care if you and your pet travel abroad.
• Dental Treatment: Dental care following an accident or illness.
• Advertising Fees for Missing Pets: Costs associated with advertising or offering a reward for a missing pet.

Pet Insurance Eligibility

In general, across the various insurers, to be eligible for pet insurance, the following conditions must be met:

• Your pet must be licensed, and you must be the registered owner in Singapore.
• Your pet must reside with you in Singapore.
• You must be a Singapore Citizen, Permanent Resident, or a foreigner holding a valid Work Permit, Employment Pass, Dependant’s Pass, or Long-Term Visit Pass.
• Your pet must be microchipped and have completed all required vaccinations.
• Your pet must be between eight (8) weeks and nine (9) years old at the start of the insurance coverage.
• Your pet must not be a working animal (e.g., guide dog, hunting dog, attack dog) or a racing animal.
• Your pet must not be used for breeding.

How to Assess Your Needs for Pet Insurance

Determining whether pet insurance is right for you—and, if so, which type of coverage you need—requires careful consideration of your pet’s health, breed, lifestyle, and potential risks. While it’s impossible to predict every situation that may arise, there are several key factors you should consider to assess your needs more effectively. Ask yourself:

• Is your dog from a breed that’s prone to expensive health problems? Some breeds are more likely to develop conditions like hip dysplasia, heart disease, or skin issues, which can be costly to treat.
• Does your dog have a medical history or pre-existing conditions? If your dog has pre-existing health conditions, these may not be covered by insurance, so it’s important to evaluate the costs associated with managing these conditions.
• Is your dog at an age where she might be prone to more serious illnesses or injuries? Older pets are more likely to develop chronic health issues, and the cost of managing these problems can be high.
• Is your dog prone to accidents? If your dog is particularly active or accident-prone, you may want to consider coverage that specifically protects against injury-related costs.
• Could your dog cause harm to a third party? If your dog has a history of aggression or is simply more excitable, you may want to look for insurance plans that include third-party liability coverage.
• Considering these factors will help you determine whether pet insurance is necessary and what type of coverage is essential for your pet’s well-being.

Understanding the Costs of Pet Insurance

When choosing a pet insurance plan, budget is often a key concern. Everyone would opt for the best coverage if money were no object, but most pet owners must balance their need for comprehensive coverage with the realities of their budget.

While it might be tempting to choose the most affordable plan, it’s important to think about long-term affordability. Don’t overextend yourself with a plan that may become financially unmanageable as your pet ages. Premiums often increase as your pet gets older, which could make insurance more expensive over time.

One approach is to start with a basic plan that you can afford and upgrade it later as your financial situation allows. Purchasing insurance early in your pet’s life can also offer benefits, such as locking in lower premiums and avoiding the need for pre-insurance health checks. Even a more affordable plan can offer value if purchased early, giving you the flexibility to upgrade as necessary.

Additional Factors to Consider

Beyond coverage and premiums, there are several other factors that you should take into account before choosing a pet insurance provider.

• Congenital and Hereditary Conditions: Some plans may cover congenital or hereditary conditions, which are especially important if your dog is from a breed that is prone to certain genetic health issues. If your dog is not from a reputable breeder or belongs to a breed known for specific health problems, make sure your plan includes coverage for these conditions.
• Surgical vs. Non-Surgical Coverage: Pet insurance plans may vary in terms of what they cover. Some plans offer extensive coverage for surgeries, while others may focus on non-surgical treatments. Understanding whether your insurance includes outpatient care or only inpatient surgery is important to make sure your pet gets the care they need.
• Lifetime Coverage: Some pet insurance plans only provide coverage for a limited time or up to a certain age, which can be problematic for older pets who are more likely to develop age-related health conditions. It’s important to ensure that the plan you choose offers lifetime coverage if you want to ensure continuous protection for your dog throughout their life.
• Pre-Insurance Health Checks: Some insurance providers require pets to undergo a physical check-up or even blood tests before being eligible for coverage. These tests are meant to ensure that the pet is in good health before the insurance policy begins. While this may seem like an extra hurdle, it can help you avoid exclusions or the denial of claims related to pre-existing conditions.
• Choice of Veterinary Clinics: If you have a preferred vet, you’ll want to make sure that the insurance plan allows you to choose your clinic. Some plans have partnerships with specific veterinary clinics, and it’s important to verify that your vet is included in the insurer’s network before signing up.
• Claim Process and Speed: The speed and ease of the claims process can make a huge difference, especially when you’re already dealing with the stress of your pet’s illness or injury. Make sure the insurer provides a straightforward, quick claims process so that you’re not left waiting for reimbursement when you need it most.
• Customer Service: Lastly, your experience with the insurance company’s customer service should be a key factor. From getting a quote to making a claim, your interactions with the insurer should leave you feeling confident and supported. If your initial interactions with the insurer are unhelpful or difficult, it’s likely that you’ll encounter similar issues when you need to file a claim.

Understanding Key Insurance Terms

To make an informed decision about which plan is right for you, you’ll need to understand some common insurance terms:

• Co-Insurance: This refers to the percentage of medical bills you will need to pay. For example, if your co-insurance is 20% and your total claim is $2,000, you’ll need to pay $400, while the insurance company covers the remaining 80%.
• Deductible: The deductible is the amount you need to pay before your insurance begins covering costs. For instance, if your deductible is $50 and your vet bill is $500, you’ll pay the first $50, and the insurance company will cover the remaining $450.
• Waiting Period: Many insurance policies include a waiting period, which is the time you must wait after enrolling before you can begin filing claims. This helps prevent people from buying insurance only to immediately file large claims.
• Pre-Existing Conditions: A pre-existing condition is any illness or injury that your pet has before their insurance starts, or during the waiting period. Most pet insurance plans do not cover pre-existing conditions, so it’s important to be aware of this when applying.

Comparison of Pet Insurance Plans in Singapore

When evaluating pet insurance plans, it’s essential to compare the various options to find the one that best suits your needs. Here is a quick comparison of some of the top pet insurance providers in Singapore:

Choosing the right pet insurance plan requires careful thought about your pet’s health, your budget, and the specific coverage you need. With the right plan, you can ensure that your pet’s health is protected, and that you are financially prepared for any unexpected events that may arise. Hopefully, this guide has helped clarify the factors to consider, and has empowered you to make the best decision for your furry companion’s future.

Article provided by Pet Cremators, a trusted and government-approved pet cremation service in Singapore, deeply understands the strong emotional connection between pets and their owners. The company offers a variety of compassionate services, including communal and private cremation, pet columbarium options, memorial keepsakes, and customized remembrance services, ensuring that every pet’s passing is treated with the utmost respect and care.