On average you can expect pet insurance to cost around $437 annually for cats and about $809 per year for dogs, making it the 2nd most expensive state for both. However, depending on your dog's breed and age along with your coverage chosen, prices can vary widely.
How Much Is Pet Insurance in California?
Updated: June 2, 2025
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Key Takeaways
In California, pet insurance for dogs is around $67 per month or $809 per year and for cats premiums are around $36 monthly or $437 annually
Compared to the national average, California pet insurance costs for dogs is 27% higher and for cats it is 26% more than average.
You can get the best cheap pet insurance in California by researching plenty of companies, finding the right coverage level for your companion, and comparing multiple quotes.
How Much Does Pet Insurance Cost in California?
| Cat | $36 | $437 |
| Dog | $67 | $809 |
*These rates represent policies with 80% reimbursement, a $5,000 limit annually and a $500 deductible for a ragdoll (7-year-old cat) and labrador retriever (6-year-old dog). While most providers in the pet insurance space were included, some do not have these offerings and were excluded for consistency.
Average California Pet Insurance Cost By Age
Age is the most influential factor driving pet insurance pricing in California, as it strongly correlates with health issues and accident likelihood. Costs in the state can vary dramatically, ranging from as low as $285 to as high as $2,818 per year. Review the age-based cost breakdown below to understand pricing for your pet's specific age group.
Data filtered by:Results filtered by:
Select
dog_or_cat:Dog
| Under 1 | $41 | $497 |
| 1 | $45 | $541 |
| 2 | $50 | $596 |
| 3 | $55 | $655 |
| 4 | $60 | $717 |
| 5 | $65 | $779 |
| 6 | $92 | $1,103 |
| 7 | $77 | $925 |
| 8 | $85 | $1,025 |
| 9 | $96 | $1,149 |
| 10 | $108 | $1,296 |
| 11 | $122 | $1,470 |
| 12 | $132 | $1,585 |
| 13 | $146 | $1,752 |
| 14 | $156 | $1,871 |
| 15 | $173 | $2,071 |
| 16 | $183 | $2,198 |
| 17 | $200 | $2,395 |
| 18 | $215 | $2,578 |
| 19 | $223 | $2,677 |
| 20 | $235 | $2,819 |
*These rates represent policies with 80% reimbursement, a $5,000 limit annually and a $500 deductible for a ragdoll (cat) and labrador retriever (dog).
Average California Pet Insurance Costs By Coverage
The coverage level you choose is the second most influential factor that determines your pet insurance rates. In California, depending on the coverage details you want and your pet type, prices can be as low as $32 per month or as high as $182 monthly.
Data filtered by:Results filtered by:
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Annual Limit:$10,000
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Reimbursement %:80%
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Deductible:$1,000
| Cat | $52 | $628 | 28% |
| Dog | $119 | $1,433 | 27% |
How To Get The Best Cheap Pet Insurance in California
To help you find the best pet insurance for the lowest price, we've created a simple step-by-step guide below.
- 1
Decide on coverage beforehand
Before buying pet insurance, you have to find out how much coverage you need that is both pet and budget friendly. You should take into account first how much you can afford, the common health/behavioral problems for your pet's breed, and vet costs for your primary veterinarian and area.
- 2
Research costs and take advantage of discounts
For your particular pet and desired coverage level, you should research average costs so you can understand whether you're getting a good deal when comparing quotes. While discounts are fewer than other insurance types, you should take advantage of discounts for multiple pets and bundling where possible.
- 3
Look into company reputations and coverage details
To get a more well-rounded look into what company may be best for you, researching what customers think on forums is a great start. We also recommend looking into terms like coverage selections available, waiting periods, claims processes and restrictions to ensure you'll be covered for your needs without hassle.
- 4
Compare plenty of pet insurance quotes
Making sure to get plenty of pet insurance quotes to compare ensures that you get the best deal possible. All providers offer fast pricing and buying online for most dogs and cats, but those with exotic companions will have to call and will have more limited options.
Average Pet Insurance Cost California: Bottom Line
California ranks second nationally for pet insurance costs, averaging $36 monthly for cats and $67 for dogs. Actual rates vary significantly based on your pet's specifics, location within the state, and chosen coverage level. To secure the best rates, determine your ideal coverage needs, research multiple insurers, and compare several quotes before deciding.
Pet Insurance Cost California: FAQ
Below you will find expert answers to frequently asked questions about pet insurance costs in California:
How much does pet insurance cost in California?
For dogs in California, pet insurance costs an average of $67 per month, but depending on age, pricing can vary anywhere from $41 to $235 monthly. Cats in the state will cost around $36 monthly to insure but pricing can range anywhere from $24 to $137 per month on average by age.
Is California pet insurance expensive?
For both Dogs and Cats, California ranks as the 2nd most expensive state to get pet insurance coverage.
How should I go about buying pet insurance in California?
In order, you should decide on your coverage needs beforehand, research costs and discounts, find out company reputations and coverage details, and compare multiple quotes apples-to-apples.
How We Determined Average Pet Insurance Costs in California
All costs in this article are based on or modified based on the following profile:
- $5,000 annual limit
- 80% reimbursement
- $500 deductible
- For dogs: Labrador Retriever (6-years-old)
- For cats: Ragdoll (7-years-old)