Does Pet Insurance Cover Cancer
Yes, most pet insurance policies typically cover cancer. Embrace's accident and illness plan includes cancer treatment coverage at no extra cost, covering everything from surgery and treatment to follow-up visits.
Does Pet Insurance Cover Cancer?
No one expects to hear that their dog or cat has cancer, but because cancer is one of the most common diseases affecting pets, many pet owners choose pet insurance to help prepare for the unexpected. Having coverage in place before a diagnosis can help make unexpected veterinary costs more manageable and give you more freedom to choose the care that’s right for your pet.
Cancer in Dogs & Cats
Cancer is one of the most common diseases affecting dogs and cats, especially as they age. While some cancers can be treated successfully, others require ongoing care that may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or medications.
Early diagnosis often gives pets the best chance for successful treatment, so it’s important to schedule a veterinary exam if you notice unusual lumps, weight loss, changes in appetite, or other concerning symptoms.
Common Cancers in Dogs
Lymphoma
A cancer of the lymphatic system that’s one of the most common cancers in dogs.
Mast cell tumors
Skin tumors that can range from low grade to aggressive and may spread to other parts of the body.
Osteosarcoma
An aggressive bone cancer that most often affects large and giant breed dogs.
Hemangiosarcoma
A cancer of the blood vessels that commonly affects the spleen, liver, or heart.
Melanoma
A cancer that often develops in the mouth, toes, or skin and can be aggressive.
Common Cancer in Cats
Lymphoma
One of the most frequently diagnosed cancers in cats, affecting the lymphatic system.
Squamous cell carcinoma
A cancer that commonly affects the mouth or areas of skin exposed to sunlight.
Mammary carcinoma
An aggressive breast cancer that’s more common in unspayed female cats.
Fibrosarcoma
A cancer that develops in connective tissue beneath the skin or in muscles.
How Much Does Pet Cancer Treatment Cost?
The cost of treating cancer in dogs and cats can vary widely depending on your pet’s diagnosis, the stage of the disease, and the recommended treatment plan. Some pets may only need surgery to remove a tumor, while others require chemotherapy, radiation therapy, medications, or ongoing monitoring. Your location and whether your pet is treated by a veterinary specialist can also affect the total cost.
| Cancer Care | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Initial oncology consultation | $200–$500 |
| Diagnostic testing and staging | $500–$3,000+ |
| Surgery | $1,000–$6,000 |
| Chemotherapy (full treatment protocol) | $3,000–$12,000 |
| Radiation therapy | $5,000–$15,000+ |
These figures are broad planning ranges based on published consumer estimates from the Dog Cancer Foundation. Actual costs vary depending on the type of cancer, your pet’s size, the recommended treatment plan, your location, and whether treatment is provided by a veterinary specialist.
What Cancer Treatments Does Embrace Cover?
We’re here to help you focus on getting your pet the care they need. Embrace covers eligible treatments, including:
Diagnostic exams and testing - Bloodwork, X-rays, ultrasounds, CT scans, and MRIs
- Biopsies and laboratory testing
- Surgery to remove tumors
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation therapy
- Hospitalization
- Prescription medications
- Complementary therapies like acupuncture
- Follow-up visits and monitoring
What is Not Covered by Pet Cancer Insurance?
While pet insurance can help cover many eligible cancer-related expenses, there are some situations where coverage may not apply. Common exclusions include:
Pre-existing conditions
Cancer diagnosed or showing clinical signs before your policy takes effect is generally not covered.
Waiting periods
Cancer diagnosed during your policy’s waiting period typically isn’t eligible for coverage.
Routine or preventive care
Wellness services, such as routine exams or preventive screenings, are generally not covered. Look into adding an optional Wellness Plan plan to help budget for routine veterinary expenses.
Are Pre-existing Cancer Conditions Covered?
No. Like all pet insurance providers, Embrace does not cover pre-existing cancer conditions. If your pet was diagnosed with cancer or showed signs of the disease before your policy took effect or during the waiting period, that cancer won’t be covered.
How Cancer Coverage Works with Embrace
If your pet is diagnosed with cancer after your policy takes effect and any applicable waiting periods have passed, filing a claim is simple. Here’s what to expect:
Visit Your Veterinarian or Specialist
If your pet shows signs of cancer, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. If needed, your veterinarian may refer you to a veterinary oncologist for additional testing and treatment.
Submit Your Claim
Once your pet receives care, simply submit your claim through the Embrace Pet Insurance MyEmbrace portal or mobile app.
Get Reimbursed for Eligible Costs
After your claim is reviewed, you’ll be reimbursed for eligible covered expenses based on your policy’s reimbursement percentage, deductible, and annual reimbursement limit.
FAQs: Pet Cancer Insurance
Are some dog breeds more likely to get cancer?
Yes. While any dog can develop cancer, some breeds have a higher risk of certain cancers due to genetics. Larger breeds and some purebred dogs are more likely to develop cancers such as lymphoma, osteosarcoma, or hemangiosarcoma.
How soon does cancer coverage start?
Cancer coverage begins after your policy takes effect and any applicable waiting periods have passed. If your pet is diagnosed with cancer before coverage begins or during the waiting period, it may be considered a pre-existing condition and won’t be covered.
Does Embrace cover follow-up cancer care?
Yes, Embrace covers eligible follow-up care related to a covered cancer diagnosis. This can include rechecks, monitoring, medications, and other medically necessary treatments.
Does Embrace cover complementary therapies for cancer treatment?
Yes. In addition to surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, some veterinarians recommend complementary therapies to help pets feel more comfortable during treatment and recovery. For example:
Acupuncture may help manage pain, nausea, or mobility issues.
Laser therapy may help reduce inflammation, relieve discomfort, and support healing after surgery.
If your veterinarian prescribes these therapies as part of treatment for a covered cancer diagnosis, they may also be eligible for coverage through Embrace.
What is the average cost of a pet cancer treatment?
The cost of pet cancer treatment varies depending on your pet’s diagnosis and treatment plan. While some pets may only need surgery, others require chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or ongoing care, with costs ranging from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. Typical chemotherapy costs for dogs and chemotherapy costs for cats can vary based on the type of cancer, the medications used, and the number of treatments needed.
What happens if you can’t afford cancer treatment?
If cancer treatment isn’t financially possible, ask your veterinarian about alternative treatment options, supportive care, or palliative care to help keep your pet comfortable. They can help you find an approach that balances your pet’s quality of life with your family’s budget.