Exotic
pet insurance
by Nationwide®
The best pet insurance for your exotic pet
We know you love all your pets—large and small—which is why we’re the only pet insurer to cover birds and exotic pets
Which exotic pets are covered?
“Exotic” is an umbrella term that includes a wide range of animals, including small mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians. Learn more about the types of pets we cover below:
How does exotic pet insurance coverage work?
Policies for each exotic pet category differ, but all plans include our reliable coverage for accidents, injuries and illnesses.
Small mammals- Dehydration/constipation
- Overgrown teeth
- Eye infection
- Bladder infection
- Upper respiratory infection
Birds- Feather picking/loss
- Excessive egg-laying
- Soft tissue trauma
- Diarrhea
- Runny nose
Reptiles & amphibians- Internal parasites
- Diarrhea
- Dehydration/constipation
- Upper respiratory infection
- Soft tissue trauma
Speak to a Nationwide representative today to get a quote for an exotic pet plan
Ineligible species
Some species of avian and exotic pets are not eligible for coverage. These species include but are not limited to:
- Venomous or poisonous species listed above
- Endangered or threatened species listed above
- Any species listed above that require a permit, license, or registration by state or federal law
- Any species listed above that is illegal to own by state or federal law
- Hybrids of domesticated pets with a wild/non-domesticated species
- Species that are kept in flocks or on display
- Any other species not listed above
Frequently asked questions
The monthly premium for an exotic pet insurance plan depends on the type of pet and amount of coverage selected but generally starts at less than $21/mo.
From rats and parrots to iguanas and ferrets, small animals and exotic pets need special care. We cover the conditions and medical treatments specific to these animals so you can keep your unique pet healthy.
- Venomous or poisonous species in the genus group listed above
- Endangered or threatened species in the genus group listed above
- Any species of genus listed above that require a permit, license, or registration by state or federal law
- Any species of genus listed above that is illegal to own by state or federal law
- Hybrids of domesticated pets with a wild/non-domesticated species
- Species that are kept in flocks or on display
- Any other species not listed above
Unfortunately, pet insurance companies don’t generally cover pre-existing conditions. However, Nationwide does allow members to request reviews of pre-existing conditions that have been cured, in which case an exception may be added so the condition would be covered.
The annual limit for reimbursement depends on the product and coverage level selected. See policy documents for details.
Nationwide is the only company that offers coverage for your exotic pet. Protecting every kind of pet is important to us because your pet is important to you.
An exotic pet insurance plan covers medical services and medical treatment from any licensed veterinarian. Simply submit a claim and we’ll reimburse you for eligible expenses.
We offer nose-to-tail coverage for:
- Accidents, including broken bones, sprains, lacerations and poisoning
- Illnesses, including allergies, ear infections, arthritis and cancer, plus hereditary and congenital conditions such as hip dysplasia, cherry eye and more
- Preventive care, including checkups, vaccinations and flea/tick preventive
You’re free to use any licensed veterinarian, including specialists and emergency providers.
Wellness coverage is not available for exotic pets at this time.
The amount of coverage you choose depends on your budget and typical medical costs over the life of pets like yours. Be sure to consider factors such as whether your type of pet is prone to hereditary and congenital conditions or requires specialty care.