Does pet insurance cover microchipping?
No. Standard pet insurance plans, such as accident and illness or accident-only plans, generally don't cover the cost of microchipping. Insurers typically classify microchipping as routine or preventative care. Optional pet wellness plans may reimburse microchipping costs, depending on your policy. Check your specific wellness or routine care plan to see if it covers the procedure.
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Key takeaways
Standard pet insurance plans generally don't cover microchipping, but some wellness plans may reimburse part or all of the cost, depending on the policy
Plans vary, so it may be worth reviewing your benefit schedule or contacting your insurer to understand how your coverage works
What is pet microchipping?
Pet microchipping is when a licensed vet implants a small identification chip under your pet's skin. The chip contains a unique ID number, but it doesn't store your contact information. Pet owners generally need to register the microchip's unique ID number with their name and phone number in a third-party database. If your pet gets lost, a vet or animal shelter can scan your pet's chip and use the database to help reunite you with your pet.
It's worth noting that a microchip is a backup form of identification. It doesn't replace a collar with an ID tag or required dog license, depending on your city or county.
Why don't standard pet insurance policies cover microchipping?
Standard pet insurance policies — like accident and illness plans and accident-only plans — typically offer coverage for unexpected eligible vet costs, not planned procedures like microchipping.
Like vaccinations, routine exams, and other preventative care, pet owners can schedule and budget for microchipping. Insurers don't consider it an emergency, injury, or illness. Wellness plans may be available to add to your standard pet insurance policy if you want coverage for routine care.
Learn more about how pet insurance works.
Can a pet wellness plan cover microchipping?
Some pet wellness plans may cover microchip implantation as an eligible expense. However, not every wellness plan includes microchipping — it typically depends on the insurer and the specific plan.
Your pet insurer may offer a wellness plan as a separate, optional plan that you add to an accident and illness pet insurance plan. If you're considering a wellness plan, review the insurer's rules, since reimbursement may be capped at a set amount or annual benefit.
Find out more about the benefits of pet insurance.
How much does microchipping pets cost?
According to CareCredit, the national cost of microchipping a dog or cat is $48, but it can range between $38 and $87 depending on your location, vet clinic, and type of pet.
Registering your pet's microchip may require paying a one-time fee to a microchip database company, not to your vet. The fee is typically affordable, and many microchip database companies offer lifetime enrollment.
Learn about the average cost of pet insurance, including why it may be worth considering if you're concerned about affording vet care for your pet.
Is microchipping worth it if it isn't covered?
Yes, microchipping can be worth it, even if you don't have insurance coverage for it. Because collars and ID tags can fall off, a microchip may offer a more permanent way to identify missing animals. Chips may also increase the chance that you'll get your pet back, since animal shelters and vets can scan lost pets, search for their unique ID numbers in the registry, and help reconnect them with their owners.
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