Pet Insurance For Behavioral Problems

Since 2006, we’ve been a strategic partner of the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®), united by our missions to protect the well-being of animals. A pet’s emotional health is just as important to their wellbeing as their physical health. As pet parents, we know it’s challenging for both a pet and their parent when emotions like fear, stress, and anxiety lead to behavioral problems. We’re here to help you get the behavioral treatment your pet needs so that you can both feel happier and healthier.

Common Questions About Behavioral Coverage

  1. Does pet insurance cover anxiety medication?

    Yes, ASPCA® Pet Health Insurance plans do cover anxiety medication prescribed by a veterinarian and approved by the FDA. In addition to managing your environment, anxiety medication can be helpful for keeping your pet calm, so it’s commonly prescribed by veterinarians

  2. Does pet insurance pay for behavioral therapy?

    If your vet recommends a behavioral therapy program for your pet, then yes, it would be eligible for coverage, as long as the program is given within the U.S. or Canada by an approved professional.

  3. Does dog insurance cover training?

    Training for behavior problems, usually referred to as behavior modification, is covered for both dogs and cats. Examples of behavior modification include counterconditioning, desensitization, and response substitution. However, behavior modification does not include obedience training. Behavior modification must be done at a facility in the U.S. or Canada by an approved professional.

  4. What professionals are approved for behavioral treatment?

    Treatment for behavioral problems has to be performed by a veterinarian or through a written referral by a veterinarian to any of the following:

    • Applied Animal Behaviorist
    • Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist (CAAB)
    • Associate Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist (ACAAB)
    • Diplomat of the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists (Dip ACVB)

What’s The Cost Of Pet Insurance For Behavioral Problems?

Behavioral coverage is part of our base insurance plan called Complete CoverageSM, which also includes treatment for illnesses and accidents. Your premium for Complete CoverageSM will depend on where you live and the species, breed, and age of your pet. Other factors that will impact premium are the reimbursement percentage, annual deductible, and annual coverage limit you select. We keep these features customizable so it’s easier to find a plan that fits your pet’s needs as well as your monthly budget.

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Common Pet Behavioral Issues

Pet behavioral problems often occur as a response to a change in their health or environment. If your pet exhibits any of the issues listed, the first step would be to take them to their veterinarian to rule out underlying medical issues.

Dogs

  • Vocalizing, such as barking, howling, or whining
  • Destructive chewing
  • Mouthing/nipping
  • Aggression
  • Inappropriate urination or marking
  • Noise phobias
  • Separation anxiety

Cats

  • Inappropriate marking
  • Going outside litter box
  • Destructive scratching
  • Nocturnal activity
  • Fear of unfamiliar people
  • Excessive vocalizing, such as meowing or yowling

With Complete CoverageSM, you can be insured for behavioral treatments and any medical conditions that may be contributing to your pet’s concerning behaviors. It’s best to get covered as early as possible to avoid pre-existing conditions. Get a quote for a customized ASPCA® Pet Health Insurance plan today.

More Resources For Pet Behavioral Problems

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