'Curable' Pre-Existing Conditions: The Loophole You Need
Think your pet is uninsurable? Think again. ASPCA, MetLife, and Embrace cover 'curable' conditions after a waiting period. Here is how it works.
Dr. Sarah Chen
Veterinary Advisor
The #1 lie pet owners believe is: “My dog had an ear infection once, so now he is uninsurable.”
FALSE.
While incurable diseases (Diabetes, Cancer) are permanently excluded if diagnosed pre-enrollment, most modern insurers distinguish between Curable and Incurable conditions.
🟢 The “Reset Button”
Carriers like ASPCA, MetLife, Embrace, and Fetch have a specific clause:
“If your pet is free of symptoms and treatment for 180 days (or 365 days), the condition is considered cured and will be covered in the future.”
Case Study: Bella’s Ear Infection
- Jan 2026: Bella gets an ear infection. Cost $200.
- Feb 2026: You buy insurance. The ear infection is “Pre-existing.”
- Feb 2026: Bella has had NO ear issues for 12 months.
- March 2026: Bella gets another ear infection. IT IS COVERED.
🚫 Who Does NOT Do This?
Healthy Paws and Trupanion are stricter. They often view condition history as permanent indicators of risk. If you have a “lemon” puppy with minor issues, choose ASPCA or MetLife.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a curable pre-existing condition?
It is an illness that can be fully resolved, like an ear infection, UTI, or kennel cough. If your pet stays symptom-free for 12 months, insurers will cover it again.
What is NOT curable?
Chronic conditions like Diabetes, Allergies, Hip Dysplasia, or Arthritis. Once diagnosed, they are excluded for life.