On average, pet insurance costs $294 annually for cats and around $538 for dogs in Iowa, which is 15% and 16% cheaper than the national average, respectively. However, your pet's breed and age, along with your coverage choice, can make prices vary.
How Much Is Pet Insurance in Iowa?
Updated: July 27, 2025
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Key Takeaways
Based on our survey of major pet insurance providers, Iowa dog insurance averages $45 per month ($538 per year), while cat insurance averages $24 per month ($294 per year).
According to our survey, Iowa pet insurance costs are 16% lower for dogs and 15% lower for cats compared to the national average.
Find the best cheap pet insurance in Iowa by researching providers and comparing multiple quotes to get the right coverage level.
How Much Does Pet Insurance Cost in Iowa?
| Cat | $24 | $294 |
| Dog | $45 | $538 |
*These accident-only coverage rates (which cover injuries but not illnesses) apply to policies with 80% reimbursement, a $5,000 annual limit and a $500 deductible for a Ragdoll (7-year-old cat) and a Labrador Retriever (6-year-old dog). While we included most pet insurance providers, some don't have these offerings, which we excluded for consistency.
What Factors Affect Pet Insurance Costs in Iowa?
Below are the key factors affecting pet insurance costs in Iowa and how influential they are. Click each factor to see pricing details.
Coverage level
Your chosen coverage level has the biggest impact on pet insurance costs in Iowa. Our baseline accident-only rates (shown in the main cost table) average $294 to $538 annually, while comprehensive accident and illness coverage ranges from $463 to $910 annually for standard parameters.
Pet type and breed
Cats and dogs cost different amounts to insure, and your pet's breed makes a big difference too. Dogs typically cost more than cats because they have higher risks of injuries and certain breeds are prone to genetic health conditions.
Our research shows monthly costs range from about $41 to $192 for dogs and $46 to $63 for cats, depending on your pet's breed.
Pet age
Insurance costs increase as pets age because they become more susceptible to health issues and injuries. Our research shows rates range from $191 to $1,093 per year, depending on your pet's age. The table below shows age-based pricing for cats specifically.
Location
Where you live affects pet insurance rates due to local veterinary costs and regional health risks. Pet insurance in Iowa costs $54 less for cats and $101 less for dogs compared to national averages. Rates remain fairly consistent across Iowa cities, with minimal variation between locations.
Your vet
When you get quotes, insurers often ask about your vet. Different vets charge different prices, which affects how much claims cost and ultimately impacts your premiums.
Average Iowa Pet Insurance Costs by Coverage
Your coverage choice has the biggest impact on what you'll pay. Iowa monthly prices range from $16 to $405, depending on your pet type and coverage details.
The table below shows comprehensive accident and illness coverage rates. Individual rates may vary significantly based on your pet's specific health history, your chosen veterinarian and other factors.
Data filtered by:Results filtered by:
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Annual Limit:$5,000
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Reimbursement %:80%
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Deductible:$500
| Cat | $39 | $463 | -15% |
| Dog | $76 | $910 | -16% |
Average Iowa Pet Insurance Cost by Breed
Pet type and breed significantly influence insurance costs, with national monthly rates ranging from $41 to $192 depending on your pet's specific breed characteristics. Based on breed-level data across the United States, insurance costs can vary by more than $150 per month between different types of cats and dogs.
Average Pet Dog Insurance Costs in Iowa
Based on our analysis, your dog's breed significantly impacts pet insurance costs in Iowa, with monthly rates ranging from $41 for small mixed breeds to $192 for Bull Mastiffs. Take a look at the complete pricing breakdown by breed in the table below to find your specific rate.
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Dog Breed:Affenpinscher
| Affenpinscher | $83 | $994 |
*These rates represent policies with 80% reimbursement, a $5,000 annual limit and a $500 deductible for pet insurance policies.
Average Pet Cat Insurance Costs in Iowa
Our research shows your cat's breed significantly impacts insurance costs in Iowa, with monthly premiums ranging from $46 for Domestic Shorthairs to $63 for Abyssinians. Here's a detailed breakdown of average monthly rates by breed:
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Cat Breed:Abyssinian
| Abyssinian | $63 | $754 |
*These rates apply to policies with 80% reimbursement, a $5,000 annual limit and a $500 deductible for pet insurance policies.
Average Iowa Pet Insurance Cost by Age
Pet age significantly impacts insurance costs in Iowa, with annual premiums ranging from $191 for young cats to $1,873 for senior dogs, making it one of the top three pricing factors due to increased health risks. The table below shows how costs vary across different age groups.
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Pet Type:Cat
| Under 1 | $16 | $191 |
| 1 | $17 | $208 |
| 2 | $19 | $223 |
| 3 | $20 | $243 |
| 4 | $22 | $266 |
| 5 | $24 | $289 |
| 6 | $26 | $313 |
| 7 | $36 | $429 |
| 8 | $31 | $368 |
| 9 | $34 | $406 |
| 10 | $38 | $451 |
| 11 | $42 | $506 |
| 12 | $47 | $569 |
| 13 | $51 | $611 |
| 14 | $57 | $679 |
| 15 | $63 | $750 |
| 16 | $69 | $828 |
| 17 | $70 | $842 |
| 18 | $78 | $929 |
| 19 | $84 | $1,012 |
| 20 | $91 | $1,093 |
*These rates apply to policies with 80% reimbursement, a $5,000 annual limit and a $500 deductible for a Ragdoll (cat) and a Labrador Retriever (dog).
Average Iowa Pet Insurance Cost by City
Your city barely affects pet insurance rates in Iowa: less than $1 difference per year. Below are costs for some of Iowa's biggest cities.
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Pet Type:Cat
| Cedar Rapids | $24 | $293 |
| Des Moines | $25 | $294 |
| Sioux City | $25 | $294 |
*These rates apply to policies with 80% reimbursement, a $5,000 annual limit and a $500 deductible for a Ragdoll (cat) and a Labrador Retriever (dog).
How to Get the Best Cheap Pet Insurance in Iowa
Our simple step-by-step guide shows you how to find the best pet insurance at the lowest price for your furry friend.
- 1
Assess Your Coverage Needs
Before buying pet insurance, you have to determine how much coverage you need that balances protection and affordability. Consider your monthly budget, typical veterinary costs in your area, and common health issues for your pet's breed when making this decision.
- 2
Research Costs and Discounts
Take time to research average pet insurance costs for your specific pet type and desired coverage level. While pet insurance typically offers fewer discounts than other insurance types, look for multi-pet policies and bundling options that could help reduce your premium costs.
- 3
Evaluate Provider Reputations
Investigate potential insurance providers by reading customer reviews and examining their coverage details carefully. Pay special attention to waiting periods, claims processes, and any coverage restrictions to ensure the provider can properly meet your pet's needs.
- 4
Compare Multiple Quotes
Obtain and compare quotes from several pet insurance providers to find the best value. Most companies offer instant online quotes for cats and dogs, but exotic pet owners should prepare to contact providers directly for specialized coverage options.
- 5
Review Policy Details
Read the fine print of any policy you're considering. Focus on understanding deductibles, reimbursement rates and annual coverage limits. Make sure you're clear about what conditions are excluded and how pre-existing conditions are defined.
Average Pet Insurance Cost in Iowa: Bottom Line
Pet insurance in Iowa costs less than most states. Expect to pay around $24 monthly for cats and $45 for dogs, though your actual costs depend on your pet's breed, age and coverage choice.
Want the best rates? Compare quotes from several insurers before you commit.
Pet Insurance Cost in Iowa: FAQ
Find expert answers to common questions about pet insurance costs in Iowa below:
How much does pet insurance cost in Iowa?
In Iowa, dog insurance averages $45 per month, with age-based monthly costs ranging from $28 to $156. Cat insurance in the state averages $24 monthly, with age-based rates varying from $16 to $91.
Is Iowa pet insurance expensive?
Iowa pet insurance runs below the national average, making it a budget-friendly option for pet owners.
How should I go about buying pet insurance in Iowa?
To buy pet insurance in Iowa, decide on your coverage needs beforehand, research costs and discounts, look into company reputations and coverage details, and compare multiple quotes.
How We Determined Average Pet Insurance Costs in Iowa
All costs in this article are based on or modified from the following profile:
- $5,000 annual limit
- 80% reimbursement
- $500 deductible
- For dogs: Labrador Retriever (6 years old)
- For cats: Ragdoll (7 years old)
About Mark Fitzpatrick
Mark Fitzpatrick, a Licensed Property and Casualty Insurance Producer, is MoneyGeek's resident Personal Finance Expert. With over five years of experience analyzing the insurance market, he conducts original research and creates tailored content for all types of buyers. His insights have been featured in publications like CNBC, NBC News and Mashable.
Fitzpatrick holds a master’s degree in economics and international relations from Johns Hopkins University and a bachelor’s degree from Boston College. He's also a five-time Jeopardy champion!
Passionate about economics and insurance, he aims to promote transparency in financial topics and empower others to make confident money decisions.