Pet insurance library
Pet Insurance Glossary
Use the glossary when a policy term is slowing down your comparison.
Last reviewed: July 4, 2026
AccidentA sudden, unexpected event that causes injury to a pet.IllnessA sickness, disease, or medical condition that is not caused by a covered accident.Accident-Only PlanA policy designed mainly for injury claims rather than illness claims.Accident And Illness PlanA broader policy type that may cover both unexpected injuries and new illnesses.Wellness Add-OnAn optional routine-care benefit for predictable services such as exams or vaccines.DeductibleThe amount the policyholder pays before eligible costs are reimbursed.Annual DeductibleA deductible that applies during a policy year.Per-Condition DeductibleA deductible that applies separately to each covered condition.Reimbursement PercentageThe eligible share of a covered bill paid back after deductible and limits.Annual LimitThe maximum eligible amount the policy pays during a policy year.Unlimited Annual LimitA plan structure without a stated yearly dollar cap, subject to policy terms.Waiting PeriodThe time after enrollment before certain coverage begins.Pre-Existing ConditionA symptom, diagnosis, or condition that began before coverage was effective.Curable ConditionA condition some carriers may reconsider after a symptom-free period.Chronic ConditionA condition that may need ongoing treatment over months or years.Bilateral ConditionA condition affecting both sides of the body, such as both knees.Hereditary ConditionA condition linked to inherited traits.Congenital ConditionA condition present from birth.Exam FeeThe veterinarian's charge for evaluating the pet.Benefit ScheduleA reimbursement method that assigns set amounts to specific diagnoses or procedures.Actual Vet BillThe itemized amount charged by the veterinarian.Direct Vet PayA payment option where the carrier may pay the clinic directly when allowed.Claim FormThe document or online submission used to request reimbursement.Medical RecordsVeterinary notes and history used to review eligibility and timing.Pre-AuthorizationA review requested before planned care to estimate eligible benefits.ExclusionA cost, condition, or service the policy does not cover.SublimitA smaller benefit cap within the main policy limit.RenewalThe continuation of coverage into a new policy period.PremiumThe amount paid to keep the policy active.CoinsuranceThe portion of eligible costs not reimbursed by the carrier.Emergency CareUrgent treatment for serious or sudden conditions.Specialist CareTreatment by a veterinarian with advanced training in a specific area.Prescription MedicationMedication ordered by a veterinarian for a covered condition.RehabilitationTherapy used to help a pet recover after injury or surgery.Dental IllnessDisease affecting teeth or gums, subject to each policy's dental terms.Dental InjuryDamage to teeth or mouth caused by a covered accident.Routine CarePredictable preventive care such as vaccines, exams, and parasite prevention.Orthopedic ConditionA condition involving bones, joints, ligaments, or related structures.Orthopedic Waiting PeriodA special waiting period for certain joint or ligament claims.Policy Effective DateThe date a policy starts, before considering waiting periods.Policy YearThe annual period used for limits, deductible, and renewal.CarrierThe insurance company issuing or administering the policy.UnderwritingThe review used to determine eligibility, price, or policy terms.EndorsementA change or add-on to policy terms when offered.RiderAn optional policy addition when offered by the carrier.Sample PolicyA sample contract used to preview terms before buying.Explanation Of BenefitsA statement showing how a claim was processed.Waiting Period WaiverA limited exception some carriers may offer under specific rules.Multi-Pet DiscountA possible price reduction for insuring more than one pet.Veterinary InvoiceThe itemized bill from a clinic or hospital.Claim ReviewThe process used to decide whether a submitted bill is eligible.