MetLife Pet Insurance vs. Trupanion: How Does Trupanion Stack Up?

Choosing the best pet insurance for your family can feel like an overwhelming challenge, but MetLife Pet can make it easier by comparing policies for you. Consider what’s most important to you as a pet parent while you read our comparison guide below to see how we match up against Trupanion.

Coverage is subject to the language of the policies as actually issued. This comparison or description of Trupanion policy(ies) was not furnished by Trupanion. It was prepared solely by MetLife Pet Insurance based on publicly available summary information about competitors' offerings and highlights selected coverages of the policies referenced as of [May 1, 2023] and is subject to change without notice. It may not be completely accurate and should not be the sole source of information relied upon in deciding which insurance coverage to purchase. To receive the latest information about other providers' available plans, please visit their website. If you have questions regarding the illustration or about a particular competitor’s policy or coverage, please contact a representative of [competitor insurance company].Referenced publicly- available material for Trupanion sample plan. Retrieved from petinsurance.com/forms.  For completely reliable benefit comparisons, insurance departments (including North Dakota’s) advise that you obtain the benefit schedules directly from each applicable insurance company.

MetLife Pet vs. Trupanion¹

Let’s take a look at how some of the MetLife Pet Insurance policy provisions compare with those of a Trupanion policy.²

**Some exclusions may apply. Like all insurance policies, coverage may vary. Here’s an accessible excel sheet  that breaks down Trupanion vs. MetLife Pet coverage and exclusions.

Looking for more information? Check out of our other comparison pages, including ASPCA, Pets Best, and Healthy Paws.

Why Consider MetLife Pet Insurance Over Trupanion

Let’s take a look at why MetLife Pet Insurance may be a better choice for your pet family than Trupanion.

• We don’t have a maximum age: You can enroll pets of any age in a MetLife Pet policy. Meanwhile, Trupanion typically doesn’t allow enrollment for pets after age 14.²
• We cover exam fees: Many vets charge an exam fee for the physical examination of your pet. This can be a flat fee in addition to any testing or treatment costs. MetLife Pet can cover this fee, while Trupanion typically doesn’t.²
• We offer multipet policies: MetLife Pet is the only pet insurance that offers family plans for up to three pets with a shared deductible.⁷ You can even mix and match your cats and dogs on the same policy!
• We have a low base premium: MetLife Pet policies start at $9 a month for cats and $15 a month for dogs while a policy with Trupanion is typically more expensive.^8,9

Why Choose MetLife Pet Insurance?

MetLife Pet understands that different pet parents have different priorities. That’s why we offer customizable plans with a variety of options. This way, your pets can be covered in a way that works for you. We let you adjust your deductible, reimbursement rate, and specific coverage.

One of the best ways to dig into what MetLife Pet Insurance covers is by reviewing our coverage and exclusions page. Here are a few more ways we stand out from the competition.

Coverage add-ons

Many pet insurance policies, including Trupanion, don't cover wellness care.^2,9 From routine veterinary exams to preventative care like vaccinations, MetLife Pet is invested in keeping your pet healthy — not just treating them when they’re sick.

We offer two different add-ons for pet parents to choose from, so you get the coverage you want:¹⁰

• Wellness Plan: This covers regular checkups, neutering, spaying, and vaccinations.
• Preventative Care Plan: This covers routine vet care and parasite prevention.

Deductible and premium discounts

As part of our commitment to helping pet parents, we offer discounts to eligible policyholders. Here are some ways you might be able to save on your pet insurance:

• Military discount: Available for veterans, military members, and first responders.¹¹
• Animal care discount: 10% off to animal care workers, such as veterinarians and shelter employees.¹²
• Healthcare discount: Available for healthcare workers, like doctors and nurses.¹²
• Employer benefit discount: For those who purchase a policy through their workplace.¹³
• Internet purchase discount: Offered to those who buy a pet insurance policy online.¹⁴
• Deductible discount: Your pet's deductible automatically decreases by $25 (for IAIC underwritten policies) or $50 (for MetGen underwritten policies) each policy year you don't receive a reimbursement for a submitted claim.⁶

Comprehensive mobile app

Unlike other pet insurance apps, MetLife Pet’s app is a comprehensive space for claims, records, and pet care. Plus, it’s free for policyholders! Our app lets you find nearby vets, manage your pet’s medical records, submit claims, and read pet health articles tailored to your furry friend.

We also have a telehealth feature with veterinarians available 24/7 to answer your pet-related questions. Whether you’re wondering if your dog will be okay after consuming a piece of candy or trying to figure out why your cat won’t stop meowing, our chat service can help.

MetLife Pet cares

At MetLife Pet, we want to go beyond just providing health insurance to help care for pets. This commitment shows up in a few different ways:

• We’re happy to provide discounts on monthly premiums to active military members, veterans, and first responders, as well as animal care and health care workers.^11,12
• In 2021, we contributed $500,000 to animal rescue shelter partners all over the U.S. This helped to sustain operations and care for rescued animals.
• We may be able to assist with paying for boarding fees for your pets if you’re hospitalized.This way, your pets will be cared for while you focus on your own health.

Short waiting periods

MetLife Pet Insurance offers some of the shortest waiting periods among pet insurances. When you enroll your dog or cat in pet insurance, our accident coverage starts at midnight, while Trupanion’s accident coverage kicks in 5 days after enrollment. MetLife Pet also gives you illness coverage in 14 days, whereas Trupanion’s waiting period for illness coverage is typically 30 days.^2,15

Holistic treatments

MetLife Pet Insurance wants to give you options when it comes to caring for your pets — including exploring alternative therapies and holistic treatments. We can offer coverage so you can explore avenues like chiropractic care, massage therapy, acupuncture, and more.

Success stories

MetLife Pet helps pet parents every day. Whether we’re covering accidents, illnesses, or routine care, we’re thrilled to help you to afford veterinary care for your pets. Wondering if pet insurance is worth it? Here’s a real claim story and how much we covered.

Lily, a mixed breed puppy, caught canine parvovirus in the fall. She was lethargic, vomiting, and had a high fever for a few days. When her family brought her to the vet, she was diagnosed with parvovirus. Parvo is a dangerous disease for puppies that attacks their gastrointestinal system. The exam fee and treatment cost about $3,100, and MetLife Pet footed the entire bill.¹⁶

Lily took some time to recover, replenish the fluids she’d lost, and gain healthy weight. But she’s doing so much better. We love a happy and healthy puppy!

With both experience and acclaim caring for pets, award-winning¹⁷ MetLife Pet Insurance may be a strong choice for your family’s coverage. Get started on your pet insurance journey with a personalized quote for your pet.