Does Pet Insurance Cover Pre-Existing Conditions in UAE?

Last updated on : 04 Feb 2025
3 min read

As a responsible pet owner, ensuring your furry friend gets the care they need is a top priority. Pet insurance is a great way to manage unexpected veterinary expenses, but one question we often hear is: Does pet insurance cover pre-existing conditions in the UAE?

The answer isn’t always straightforward. Understanding how pre-existing conditions are treated by pet insurance providers can help you make informed decisions about protecting your cat or dog’s health.

What Are Pre-Existing Conditions?

Pre-existing conditions are health issues or illnesses your pet had before you purchased an insurance policy. Common examples include:

  • Chronic conditions like arthritis or diabetes.

  • Diagnosed illnesses such as kidney disease or heart conditions.

  • Injuries or conditions noted during your pet’s medical history review.

Most insurers consider a condition “pre-existing” if symptoms appeared or were diagnosed before your policy’s start date.

Do UAE Pet Insurance Plans Cover Pre-Existing Conditions?

In the UAE, pet insurance policies typically do not cover pre-existing conditions. This is a standard practice across most insurers, as these conditions are considered predictable risks rather than unforeseen events.

However, it’s worth noting that some plans might cover certain conditions after a specified waiting period if they are classified as “curable.” For example:

  • An infection treated and resolved before the policy began may be eligible for future claims.

  • Chronic or incurable conditions, like hip dysplasia or diabetes, are generally excluded.

Reviewing your policy terms carefully is essential to understanding how pre-existing conditions are defined and whether any exceptions apply.

 

How Can You Still Protect a Pet with Pre-Existing Conditions?

While pre-existing conditions may not be covered, there are ways to ensure your pet still gets the care they need:

  1. Focus on Comprehensive Coverage:
    Invest in a policy that covers future accidents, illnesses and routine care for conditions unrelated to pre-existing issues.

  2. Regular Wellness Checkups:
    Preventive care and early intervention can reduce the likelihood of additional health complications.

  3. Explore Your Options:
    Compare policies to find one that offers the most benefits for your pet’s unique situation. Our pet insurance section makes it easy to explore top plans available in the UAE for cats and dogs.

Why Buy Pet Insurance from Shory?

At Shory, we understand how important your pets are to you. That’s why we’ve partnered with trusted insurers to bring you pet insurance plans that are 100% online, paperwork-free and designed for UAE residents. With Shory, you can find policies that cover essential needs like accidents, illnesses, and more ensuring peace of mind for you and quality care for your pet.

Final Thoughts

While pre-existing conditions are typically excluded from pet insurance coverage in the UAE, there are still plenty of reasons to invest in a policy. By protecting against future risks, you can give your cat or dog the best chance at a healthy, happy life without worrying about unexpected expenses. Ready to get started? Explore our pet insurance section today and find the perfect plan for your beloved pet. 

Disclaimer: Shory aims to present accurate and up to date information, however we take no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content


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