The Best Pet Insurance in California (April 2024)

We ranked pet insurance providers in California based on plan availability and our research into the main factors impacting policyholders in the state. To inform our review, we analyzed the average age of pets in California, state veterinary costs, average monthly premiums for cats and dogs, and the most reported pet accidents.

Our rankings for the best pet insurance companies in California reflect cost and discounts, coverage options, additional benefits and more. We also considered responses to our survey of 1,000 pet owners with pet insurance nationwide, filtered by California residents.

We use our rating system to compare each company we review and determine the best pet insurance companies in the industry. To learn more, read our full pet insurance methodology for reviewing and scoring providers.

How We Calculated Pet Insurance Costs in California

Dog cost data was determined by averaging sample quotes we obtained from each provider for a 5-year-old medium, mixed-breed dog and a 2-year-old golden retriever in California in Santa Clarita, California. We determined cost data for cats by averaging sample quotes for a 5-year-old mixed-breed cat and a 2-year-old Siamese cat for the same city. 52 total quotes were collected and averaged for the state of California.

By choosing the right pet insurance plan, you can ensure your pet has adequate coverage in the event of an emergency. Cost and coverage vary by plan and provider, and we suggest you compare several options to make the best choice for you and your pet. You can use the table below to compare each insurance provider on our list based on important factors.

According to our research, the average monthly cost to insure a pet in California is $63. The average dog insurance cost in California is $76 monthly and cat insurance is roughly $40 per month.

Our cost analysis revealed that California is the 3rd most expensive state for pet insurance. The only states where pet insurance is more expensive than California are Massachusetts and Connecticut. The rising costs of veterinary care and the lack of access to vets in California are likely contributing to the rise in pet insurance prices.

This average is based on quotes we obtained from 11 different pet insurance companies for four sample pets:

• A 5-year-old medium, mixed-breed male dog
• A 2-year-old female golden retriever
• A 5-year-old mixed-breed, male cat
• A 2-year-old female Siamese cat

The price of your pet’s plan may differ from our average since pet insurance companies determine cost based on your pet’s breed, age and location. Price will also vary depending on the coverage and customization options you choose. Here is a breakdown of costs by our top picks for pet insurance companies and other options in California.

How Much Pet Insurance Saves Pet Owners

Pet ownership requires a financial commitment no matter where you live, but California is one of the most expensive places to own a dog in the country. Based on our comprehensive analysis of dog ownership costs across the U.S., the average annual cost of owning a dog in California is $4,313.

Pet insurance provides a financial safety net that can help pet owners save on a variety of routine and emergency veterinary costs. Based on the average annual cost of pet ownership and pet insurance, California policyholders can expect to save an average of $229 to $693 per year on veterinary expenses.

Here is a breakdown of how much California residents can save with each pet insurance provider on our list:

Based on the sample quotes we gathered, Lemonade offers the cheapest pet insurance in California at an average of $25 per month. Lemonade is a good option because it offers affordable yet reliable coverage. Since pet costs run high in the Golden State, a cheaper plan can benefit pet owners on a budget.

Although Lemonade is the most affordable insurance based on the quotes we gathered, the exact price of your pet’s plan will vary depending on age, breed and location.

The table below shows the top five most affordable pet insurance companies in California. and their average monthly cost, based on quotes collected in Santa Clarita, C.A.:

There are a few factors you can consider when shopping for a California pet insurance policy to help you choose the best coverage for your pet and your budget.

Consider California's Climate When Choosing Coverage

Most insurance companies offer several plans, plus additional add-ons, so you can customize your coverage according to your pet’s needs. Generally, you can choose between an accident-only plan, which only covers accidents and injuries, or a more comprehensive accident and illness policy.

With parts of California experiencing temperatures over 110°F in the summer, pet owners should strongly consider getting a comprehensive accident and illness pet insurance plan with higher annual coverage, as heat-related illnesses often require costly veterinary care.

Pets in California could face heightened risks of heat stroke, dehydration, and other heat-induced medical emergencies due to the hot, dry climate. These conditions can require emergency veterinary services or hospitalization. Higher annual limits of $10,000 or more can prevent owners from incurring steep out-of-pocket expenses if their pet suffers a heat injury requiring expensive, lifesaving treatment.

Customize Your Coverage to Fit Your Budget

Most providers allow you to adjust your annual coverage limit, deductible and reimbursement rate to adjust your monthly premium. Some companies also offer add-ons, such as wellness care or dental coverage, to further customize your coverage. When you adjust these amounts, your policy cost will change.

Read The Fine Print

Read through a sample policy to ensure you understand the details of your pet’s plan. Pay particular attention to the covered conditions and situations and any exclusions — such as pre-existing conditions.

Read Online Customer Reviews

Reading customer reviews on platforms like the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Trustpilot can give you valuable insights into customer experiences with various providers.

Remember that your location will impact the companies and plans available to you. Before selecting a pet insurance provider, ensure it provides coverage in your state.

California passed several animal welfare laws in 2022 to protect the health and safety of pets, including the first state law prohibiting certain toxicology testing on dogs and cats. California municipalities have regulations in addition to state pet laws, including:

Los Angeles Pet Laws

• Dogs older than 4 months must be licensed and vaccinated against rabies. License fees are reduced if a dog has been spayed or neutered.
• Dogs must be restrained by a leash no longer than six feet and in the control of a competent person when off their owner’s property.
• Dogs may not be transported in the bed of a truck or other open vehicle unless secured with a cross tether or if the side of the open vehicle is over 46 inches tall.

San Diego Pet Laws

• Dogs older than 4 months must have a valid license and wear it at all times. Owners must show proof of rabies vaccination to receive a license.
• Dogs must be kept on a leash no longer than eight feet, except when at a designated off-leash area or confined to a residence or backyard.
• San Diego residents can have up to six dogs before they are considered a kennel.

San Jose Pet Laws

• A dog on private property must be confined to the premises or behind a fence high enough to safely contain the animal.
• San Jose residents may have no more than three dogs or a total of five licensed pets.
• Dogs must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet in public places. In public parks and open spaces, the leash may be up to 20 feet long as long as the dog is under its owner’s control and can be prevented from making physical contact with other people.

San Francisco Pet Laws

• Dogs older than four months must be licensed. The license is valid for as long as the dog's rabies vaccine is valid.
• Dogs on the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) must be in a dog crate. Dogs riding the San Francisco Municipal Railway (MUNI) must be leashed and muzzled or in a carrier.
• When off its owner’s personal property, a dog must be on a leash no longer than eight feet.

California Consumer Protection Laws for Pet Insurance

In 2014, California became the first state to impose basic disclosure requirements for pet insurance providers to ensure potential customers can make informed decisions. The law requires insurance providers to disclose basic policy information, including:

• Reimbursement benefits
• Pre-existing condition restrictions
• Coverage limits
• Deductibles
• Waiting periods

The law also requires insurance providers to offer a 30-day money-back guarantee on policies.

Pets can be expensive — especially in California. Investing in pet insurance can help mitigate routine veterinary costs and ensure your pet receives the care it needs in an emergency. According to our analysis, pet insurance is worth it in California due to the estimated savings of $229 to $693 per year on veterinary expenses.

For fast service, comprehensive coverage and a low monthly rate, consider Lemonade or another top provider on our list. We recommend comparing quotes from multiple pet insurance companies to ensure you find the best fit for your pet’s needs before purchasing a policy.

Use the following resources to learn more about pet insurance and pet care in California:

• Average pet insurance cost by breed, age and state
• Veterinary service price estimator
• Resources for purchasing pet insurance in California 
• California pet laws
• California Pet Assistance and Support (PAS) Program
• List of California pet insurance providers