Should you get health insurance for your cats? I wondered whether we should have it too for our cats. My decision would require two things: research about what to expect from having insurance, and then compare companies.

To help you decide if cat health insurance is good for you and your cat:

The following questions ought to be considered:

• What does health insurance cover for cats
• Can I choose our vet
• How much are premiums
• Are there deductibles and/or co-pays
• Are there “hidden” costs
• Does it cover lab fees, x-rays, etc.
• Does it cover pre-existing conditions, and how is pre-existing condition defined
• What about exclusions? What doesn’t it cover

Health insurance for cats hasn’t always been available.

The first insurance for animals was created in 1890, by Claes Virgin, the founder of Länsförsäkrings Alliance. Originally, it only covered horses and livestock. The Swedish insurance company is still in business today.

In 1924, Sweden insured the first dog.

By 1947, Britain issued it’s first pet insurance coverage.

Lassie, the famous TV collie, was the first pet in the United States to receive health insurance in 1982. The company that issued the policy was Veterinary Pet Insurance.

Currently, there are several insurance companies to choose from. Here’s a list of pet health insurance companies for cats, in the United States, provided by NAPHIA (North American Pet Health Insurance Association) members. There may be other legitimate companies, but not listed here. Take note: NAPHIA is a member based organization.

Compare cat health insurance companies

Ann Carrns, who writes about ‘your money’ for The New York Times, says some employers may offer cat health insurance at better or lower coverage, although they don’t contribute to premiums. It’s a voluntary option, but If you decide you do want insurance for your cat, it would be worthwhile to ask your employer.

As I researched, I found many sources heeding warnings about the marketing tactics used to sell cat health insurance. The most frequent approach emphasizes “pets are family,” which we cat lovers all feel. Yet, remember that companies are profit based businesses, and like most marketing, can be manipulative. Cats are family, but they’re not humans, and cat health insurance coverage is very different from human health insurance coverage. Be aware that insurance companies are voicing a sales pitch, not a shared belief.

Consumers’ Checkbook, a nonprofit consumer organization. rates services in major urban markets. They too recommend comparing policies, and with a critical eye. It’s possible to make cat insurance payments for years. only to find out that the insurance won’t cover your cat’s health issue(s). The result could be much more expensive than cat parents who decide against insurance.

Note: My Kitty Care doesn’t sell or endorse any pet health insurance company. In fact, this post is intended to help cat families consider whether or not they should get cat health insurance at all.