Nationwide Exotic Pet Insurance: The Only Game in Town?
Nationwide is the giant of exotic pet insurance. We review their coverage for birds, reptiles, and small mammals. Is it worth the premium?
Dr. Sarah Chen
Veterinary Advisor
If you own a dog, you have 20 insurance options. If you own a Macaw or a Bearded Dragon, you seemingly have one: Nationwide.
Nationwide (formerly VPI) pioneered exotic coverage. But “monopoly” often means “complacency.” How good is it really?
🦜 What They Cover
Unlike dog plans which are becoming standardized, Exotic plans are unique. They generally cover:
- Accidents: Broken wings, shell cracks, heat lamp burns.
- Illnesses: GI Statis (Rabbits), Egg Binding (Birds/Reptiles), Parasites.
- Examinations: Including emergency exams.
⚠️ The “Benefit Schedule” Warning
Nationwide offers two types of exotic plans:
- Whole Pet with Wellness: Pays a percentage (50-70%) of the vet bill. GET THIS ONE.
- Major Medical: Uses a Benefit Schedule (capped payouts per condition). AVOID THIS if possible, as it rarely covers the full cost of modern exotic surgery.
💰 Sample Costs (2026)
- Rabbit: ~$18 - $25/mo
- Parrot: ~$15 - $30/mo
- Reptile: ~$12 - $20/mo
Verdict
It’s effectively a monopoly, but a benevolent one. Without Nationwide, thousands of exotic pets would be euthanized due to cost. If you have an exotic, get it.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does Nationwide cover birds?
Yes, they cover most avian species including parrots, cockatoos, and macaws.
Do I need a special vet?
Nationwide lets you use any licensed veterinarian, but for exotics, you should strongly prefer a Board Certified specialist (ABVP).