Pet insurance can help cover eligible veterinary costs if your dog or cat becomes ill or is injured, depending on the policy. Cover may include accidents, specified illnesses, surgery, hospital treatment and sometimes optional routine-care benefits, but exclusions, waiting periods, excesses, annual limits and reimbursement percentages vary. Pre-existing conditions are commonly excluded, and some policies restrict cover for particular breeds or age groups. Read the product disclosure statement carefully and ask the insurer to confirm how your pet’s circumstances would be assessed before purchasing.