Guide, updated June 2026
Pet insurance waiting periods explained
Answer
Most US pet insurance plans use three waiting periods: 2 to 15 days for accidents, 14 to 30 days for illness, and 6 to 12 months for orthopedic conditions. Any sign or diagnosis during the waiting window is excluded as pre-existing.
Typical waiting periods by category
Accident waits are short, usually 2 to 5 days. Illness waits run 14 to 30 days. Orthopedic and cruciate ligament waits often run a full 6 months and can extend to 12 months in some plans. Wellness add-ons typically have no waiting period beyond the policy effective date.
Insurers often allow the orthopedic waiting period to be shortened with a veterinary orthopedic exam confirming no current issues.
Waiting periods reset when you switch insurers. Continuous coverage with the same insurer avoids re-starting the clock.
Related
Ready to compare plans?
See real US insurance quotes side by side. We hand off to the quote engine on app.pawprotected.com.
Get a quoteFrequently asked
Several major insurers allow a waiver of the extended orthopedic wait if your veterinarian completes a specific orthopedic examination form within the first 30 days. The exam must show no current signs of orthopedic disease.