CALIFORNIA PET INSURANCE

Protection from California's costly vet bills. 

  • Coverage for CA-specific risks like foxtails, rattlesnakes, wildfires

  • Up to 90% reimbursement

  • Use any licensed vet in California

Pet Insurance in California: Know Your Costs & Coverage Options

Learn what California pet insurance covers, how reimbursements work, and how to tailor a plan to your pet and ZIP—plus protection for CA-specific hazards like foxtails, snakebites, and smoke-related breathing issues.

Dog clipart

DOG INSURANCE COSTS

Most Embrace dog parents pay between $20-$80 per month in 2025 for LA coverage. 

 

Orange cat clipart

CAT INSURANCE COSTS  

Most LA cat parents with Embrace pay between $10-$40 per month in 2025 to protect their cats.

A simple line drawing of a veterinary clinic or hospital building with a medical cross symbol, representing the educational journey towards becoming a licensed veterinarian.

USE ANY CA VET

No network restrictions. Visit any licensed vet or emergency hospital in California.

Shield icon with medical cross, representing comprehensive pet insurance protection and health coverage for your furry companions.

NO PENALTY FOR CLAIMS

Your rate won't increase just because you file a claim.

How Much Does Pet Insurance Cost in California?

Dog Insurance Costs in California

California premiums usually run slightly higher than the national average, driven by local veterinary pricing. Your exact price depends on your pet’s breed and age and the benefits you choose (annual limit, reimbursement, deductible). Use the city snapshot as a guide, then run a personalized quote for an accurate number. 

Most California dog parents pay roughly $20–$60 per month with Embrace, but here are some real monthly prices from around California:

BreedAgeCityZipEstimated Premium
Yorkshire Terrier2 yearsBurbank91502starts from $20.37
Dachshund (Miniature)5 yearsGlendale91203starts from $30.92
Goldendoodle2 monthsPasadena91101starts from $31.46
Affenpinscher8 weeksTorrance90501starts from $22.48
Australian Shepherd1 yearEl Monte91731starts from $18.04

Cat Insurance Costs in California

Cat coverage in California is generally more affordable than dog coverage, but the same levers apply including age, breed, and your benefit choices. City-to-city differences are usually small; your selections and pet details do most of the work. Use the snapshot below as a guide, then run a personalized quote for your exact price. 

Most California cat parents pay roughly $10–$40 per month with Embrace, but here are some real monthly prices from around California:

BreedAgeCityZipEstimated Premium
Domestic shorthair6 monthsSanta Clara95050starts from $15.03
Bombay2 yearsSunnyvale94086starts from $20.03
Siberian5 yearsElk Grove95624starts from $19.23
Devon Rex1 yearRoseville95678starts from $13.29
Siamese7 yearsSanta Maria93454starts from $19.82

Quotes for 70% reimbursement, $500 deductible, $10,000 annual limit (2025). 

Pet Insurance Costs in Major California Cities

See how pet insurance costs vary across California’s major cities. These real examples show monthly premiums for different breeds and ages, helping you understand what you might pay based on your location.

Dog Insurance Pricing by City in California

Pet ProfileLos Angeles (90028)San Francisco (94110)San Diego (92101)San Jose (95112)Sacramento (95814)Fresno (93721)
8-week Mixed Breed (<25 lbs) starts from $20.26starts from $20.26starts from $17.37starts from $14.72starts from $14.72starts from $14.72
6-month Golden Retriever starts from $44.26starts from $44.26starts from $37.93starts from $32.17starts from $32.17starts from $32.17
1-year French Bulldog starts from $47.40starts from $47.40starts from $40.63starts from $34.44starts from $34.44starts from $34.44
2-year Labrador Retriever starts from $33.81starts from $33.81starts from $28.98starts from $24.57starts from $24.57starts from $24.57
3-year Beagle starts from $33.33starts from $33.33starts from $28.57starts from $24.23starts from $24.23starts from $24.23

Cat Insurance Pricing by City in California

Pet ProfileLos Angeles (90028)San Francisco (94110)San Diego (92101)San Jose (95112)Sacramento (95814)Fresno (93721)
8-week Mixed Breed starts from $15.03starts from $15.03starts from $12.90starts from $10.93starts from $10.93starts from $10.93
6-month Domestic Shorthairstarts from $15.03starts from $15.03starts from $12.90starts from $10.93starts from $10.93starts from $10.93
1-year Siamese starts from $18.29starts from $18.29starts from $15.68starts from $13.29starts from $13.29starts from $13.29
2-year Maine Coonstarts from $20.03starts from $20.03starts from $17.17starts from $14.57starts from $14.57starts from $14.57
3-year Persianstarts from $21.98starts from $21.98starts from $21.98starts from $15.97starts from $15.97starts from $15.97

Based on 70% reimbursement, $1,000 deductible, $5,000 annual limit. Your actual price will vary based on your pet’s specific profile and coverage selections.

What Procedures Actually Cost in California

Use real‑world vet costs to plan your budget. The ranges below show what California clinics typically charge for common procedures. 

Procedure Average Cost
Intestinal obstruction$3229
Joint hyperextension$2894
Paralysis$2330
Lower respiratory disease$2297
Painful testicles$2086
Snake envenomation$2034
Foreign body$1804

Based on Embrace claims from California policyholders (in 2025).

California-Specific Risks

foxtails

Foxtails

Dry grass awns (spring–summer) can burrow into noses, ears, paws, or skin and lead to infection/abscess. Signs: sneezing, head‑shaking, paw‑licking. Vet removal is often needed. 

Texas snakebite

Rattlesnakes

Most common on trails/foothills. Signs: sudden swelling, pain, puncture marks. Get to a vet ASAP; care may include antivenin, pain control, fluids, and monitoring. 

Wildfire Smoke

Smoke irritates eyes and airways, with flat-faced breeds and seniors at higher risk. Keep pets indoors on poor-air days, limit exertion, and watch for coughing or fast breathing.

heatstroke

Heat Injuries

High temps and hot pavement can cause heat exhaustion and paw burns. Walk early/late, carry water, and rest in shade. Warning signs: heavy panting, drooling, wobbling. Call your vet if you see these symptoms.

What Embrace Covers in California

  • checkmark icon used as a list bulletAccidents & illnesses — ER & specialty care, hospitalization, surgery, imaging
  • checkmark icon used as a list bulletDental illness — up to $1,000/yr
  • checkmark icon used as a list bulletDental injury — covered like any other injury
  • checkmark icon used as a list bullet Hereditary & congenital conditions (e.g., hip dysplasia, IVDD, allergies)
  • checkmark icon used as a list bulletCancer care — diagnostics and treatment
  • checkmark icon used as a list bulletChronic conditions (e.g., diabetes, arthritis) — no per‑condition limits
  • checkmark icon used as a list bulletOrthopedic conditions (state‑dependent waiting periods apply)
  • checkmark icon used as a list bulletBehavioral therapy (included)
  • checkmark icon used as a list bulletComplementary & rehab therapies (acupuncture, chiropractic, hydro/laser/physio) — included
  • checkmark icon used as a list bulletDiagnostic testing & advanced imaging (X‑ray, ultrasound, MRI/CT)
  • checkmark icon used as a list bulletSpecialist & emergency care (any licensed vet, including after‑hours)
  • checkmark icon used as a list bulletPrescription medications for covered conditions (optional Rx add‑on)
  • checkmark icon used as a list bulletExam fees for covered visits (optional add‑on)

Pet Insurance Quotes in California

See your exact price in minutes with no vet exam required.

California Frequently Asked Pet Insurance Questions

How much is pet insurance in California right now for dogs and cats?

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Most California Embrace pet parents in 2025 pay $20–$60/month for dogs and $10–$40/month for cats. Actual premiums vary by age, breed, ZIP code, and the coverage you choose (annual limit, reimbursement percentage, and deductible). Get your exact price in about a minute with no commitment. Start a quote and customize coverage to fit your pet and budget.

Do vets in California take pet insurance? Can I use any licensed vet?

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Great news: you'll never have to switch vets or worry about networks! With Embrace, you have complete freedom to visit ANY licensed veterinarian in California or anywhere else in the US. From your trusted family vet to emergency clinics and specialists, simply pay your vet, submit your invoice through our easy mobile app, and get reimbursed quickly, often within days. This flexibility means you can always choose the best care for your pet, not just what's "in-network."

Is pet insurance worth it in California given high vet costs?

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California's veterinary costs for procedures like orthopedic repairs, foreign-body surgery, and emergency care can be overwhelming. With Embrace, you transform these potentially devastating expenses into manageable monthly premiums you can actually budget for. Enroll while your pet is healthy to maximize coverage and avoid pre-existing condition exclusions. Think of it as financial protection that lets you say "yes" to the best care without checking your bank account first.

Does pet insurance cover rattlesnake bites for dogs in California?

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Yes! This is one reason California pet parents choose Embrace. Rattlesnake bite treatment can be extremely expensive, but with our comprehensive coverage, you're protected. We cover the full emergency treatment including antivenin, hospitalization, pain management, and follow-up care. With California's year-round snake season, this coverage alone could save you thousands. Get protected before hiking season starts.

Will pet insurance cover foxtail removal and related infections in California?

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Absolutely, this California-specific hazard is covered under your Embrace policy! Foxtail removal costs can quickly escalate depending on location and complications. We've got you covered for everything from simple removals to complex surgeries, including imaging, anesthesia, and antibiotics. Don't let these sneaky grass seeds drain your savings; get coverage that understands California's unique risks. 

Are wildfire smoke–related breathing issues covered by pet insurance in California?

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Yes, when smoke exposure causes respiratory issues like coughing, eye irritation, or breathing difficulties, your Embrace accident-and-illness plan covers the diagnostics and treatment your pet needs (after waiting periods and as long as the condition isn't pre-existing). 

What do California’s 2025 pet insurance rules change for buyers?

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The new rules work in YOUR favor! California now requires total transparency, making it easier than ever to see exactly what you're getting with Embrace. You'll receive crystal-clear information about coverage, exclusions, and pricing with no surprises. These protections, combined with our already comprehensive coverage, make now the perfect time to get started. Take advantage of these new consumer protections today!

How do waiting periods and pre-existing conditions work for California pet insurance?

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A waiting period in pet insurance is a short period at the start of the policy when coverage for certain conditions or treatments is not yet active. Waiting periods help prevent fraud and vary depending on the type of coverage and the laws in your specific state. Once the waiting period ends, your coverage for those previously restricted conditions kicks in, and your beloved pet can enjoy the full benefits of the policy. These waiting periods or exclusion periods, can vary. Click here to get the details.