6 Best Michigan (MI) Pet Insurance – Average Cost in 2023

Updated on by Matthew H. Nash – Licensed Insurance Agent

As a native-born and raised Michigander, licensed insurance agent, and lifelong pet parent, I know firsthand how confusing pet insurance can be. One commonality that Michigan shares with most other states is its high cost of veterinary care. However, it’s now possible for all dogs and cats in Michigan to receive coverage through affordable pet insurance. Whether you live in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills, or Battle Creek, pet insurance can help ensure that your pet can always receive top medical care. We may receive compensation when you click on the affiliate links below.

Top MI Pet Insurance Scored, Ranked & With Cost

Use our below table to quickly compare the best pet insurance providers in Michigan. The average monthly Michigan-specific prices shown are based on a healthy 2-year-old Labrador Retriever with a $500 deductible and 90% reimbursement amount who is located in Michigan with a 48201 zip code. Costs may vary based on age, location, coverage amount, and depending on the breed of your puppy. Prices are accurate as of May 2023 and are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please visit the provider website.

lemonade
4.9
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to Michigan pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST IN MICHIGAN

$22.00/mo

REIMBURSEMENT AMOUNT

90%

ANNUAL
 BENEFIT

$20,000

  • Lemonade has the best all around Michigan pet insurance policy at the most affordable rates
  • Their user experience is world class and it’s easy to get support from their award-winning customer service team
  • Founded in 2015 as a certified B Corp, Lemonade donates unclaimed premium dollars to nonprofit organizations selected by policyholders
4.7
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST IN MICHIGAN

$48.33/mo

REIMBURSEMENT AMOUNT

90%

ANNUAL
BENEFIT

$10,000

  • Pumpkin Pet Insurance plans have extensive coverage and they always have a 90% reimbursement rate
  • They have no breed or upper age restrictions, and dental illness and hereditary conditions are covered at no extra cost
  • Founded in 2020 and underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company
4.4
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to Michigan pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST IN MICHIGAN

$33.19/mo

REIMBURSEMENT AMOUNT

90%

ANNUAL
 BENEFIT

$5,000

  • Figo offers users an amazing complimentary service to connect with Michigan vets via video chat 24/7
  • They also have an easy-to-use pet records app and real time claims tracker
  • Founded in 2013 and underwritten by Independence American Insurance Company
4.4
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to Michigan pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST IN MICHIGAN

$39.99/mo

REIMBURSEMENT AMOUNT

90%

ANNUAL
 BENEFIT

$20,000

  • They offer up to 100% reimbursement with a $20,000 annual maximum benefit for a reasonable fee and have fast reimbursement options
  • Wagmo Wellness plans reimburse you for the routine and preventative care you do for your pets annually
  • Founded in 2017 and underwritten by National Specialty Insurance Company
4.3
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to Michigan pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST IN MICHIGAN

$51.32/mo

REIMBURSEMENT AMOUNT

90%

ANNUAL
 BENEFIT

$5,000

  • Their “Healthy Pet Deductible” allows your annual deductible to go down by $50 each year that you don’t receive an insurance claim reimbursement
  • Embrace paid 93% of claims in 2019 and their member portal is user-friendly
  • Founded in 2003 and underwritten by American Modern Insurance
4.2
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to Michigan pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST IN MICHIGAN

$60.61/mo

REIMBURSEMENT AMOUNT

90%

ANNUAL
 BENEFIT

Unlimited

  • Trupanion is the only provider on our list that has an unlimited annual benefit with no payout limits
  • They are unique in that they offer “Vet Direct Pay” instead of reimbursements
  • Founded in 1999 and underwritten by American Pet Insurance Company

lemonade
4.9
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to Michigan pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST IN MICHIGAN

$22.00/mo

REIMBURSEMENT AMOUNT

90%

ANNUAL
 BENEFIT

$20,000

  • Lemonade has the best all around Michigan pet insurance policy at the most affordable rates
  • Their user experience is world class and it’s easy to get support from their award-winning customer service team
  • Founded in 2015 as a certified B Corp, Lemonade donates unclaimed premium dollars to nonprofit organizations selected by policyholders

How much does dog & cat insurance cost in Michigan for the 15 most popular breeds?

The price for Michigan pet insurance varies depending on where you live. To give you an idea, we’ve collected costs for three cities shown below. The prices will also vary based on the age, health, and breed of your puppy.

All prices shown below are based on a 90% reimbursement rate with a $500 deductible and a $5,000 annual benefit from Figo pet insurance. Please note: these prices should only be treated as a rough guide as of January 2023 and are subject to change. If you’re looking for the most up-to-date cost of pet insurance in Michigan we suggest getting a quote directly with Figo or Lemonade.

Dog Insurance Prices in Michigan:

  1. Mixed Breed
    • Detroit – $24.38/ mo
    • Grand Rapids – $28.30/ mo
    • Marquette – $23.52/ mo
  2. Labrador Retriever
    • Detroit – $33.19/ mo
    • Grand Rapids – $38.54/ mo
    • Marquette – $32.03/ mo
  3. Golden Retriever
    • Detroit – $33.13/ mo
    • Grand Rapids – $38.47/ mo
    • Marquette – $31.97/ mo
  4. German Shepherd
    • Detroit – $35.82/ mo
    • Grand Rapids – $41.58/ mo
    • Marquette – $34.57/ mo
  5. Goldendoodle
    • Detroit – $28.83/ mo
    • Grand Rapids – $33.46/ mo
    • Marquette – $27.81/ mo
  6. Chihuahua
    • Detroit – $15.17/ mo
    • Grand Rapids – $17.60/ mo
    • Marquette – $14.64/ mo
  7. Siberian Husky
    • Detroit – $33.29/ mo
    • Grand Rapids – $38.65/ mo
    • Marquette – $32.14/ mo
  8. Yorkshire Terrier
    • Detroit – $20.92/ mo
    • Grand Rapids – $24.30/ mo
    • Marquette – $20.20/ mo
  9. American Pit Bull Terrier
    • Detroit – $36.85/ mo
    • Grand Rapids – $42.79/ mo
    • Marquette – $35.57/ mo
  10. Australian Shepherd
    • Detroit – $22.92/ mo
    • Grand Rapids – $26.60/ mo
    • Marquette – $22.12/ mo
  11. Dachshund
    • Detroit – $21.62/ mo
    • Grand Rapids – $25.10/ mo
    • Marquette – $20.86/ mo
  12. Shih Tzu
    • Detroit – $19.26/ mo
    • Grand Rapids – $22.37/ mo
    • Marquette – $18.59/ mo
  13. French Bulldog
    • Detroit – $45.59/ mo
    • Grand Rapids – $52.93/ mo
    • Marquette – $44.00/ mo
  14. Boxer
    • Detroit – $45.77/ mo
    • Grand Rapids – $53.14/ mo
    • Marquette – $44.17/ mo
  15. Labradoodle
    • Detroit – $28.83/ mo
    • Grand Rapids – $33.46/ mo
    • Marquette – $27.81/ mo

Cat Insurance Prices in Michigan:

  1. Mixed Breed
    • Detroit – $14.17/ mo
    • Grand Rapids – $16.46/ mo
    • Marquette – $13.67/ mo
  2. American Shorthair
    • Detroit – $16.75/ mo
    • Grand Rapids – $19.46/ mo
    • Marquette – $16.17/ mo
  3. Bengal
    • Detroit – $16.75/ mo
    • Grand Rapids – $19.46/ mo
    • Marquette – $16.17/ mo
  4. Bombay
    • Detroit – $16.75/ mo
    • Grand Rapids – $19.46/ mo
    • Marquette – $16.17/ mo
  5. British Shorthair
    • Detroit – $16.75/ mo
    • Grand Rapids – $19.46/ mo
    • Marquette – $16.17/ mo
  6. Exotic
    • Detroit – $16.75/ mo
    • Grand Rapids – $19.46/ mo
    • Marquette – $16.17/ mo
  7. Himalayan
    • Detroit – $16.75/ mo
    • Grand Rapids – $19.46/ mo
    • Marquette – $16.17/ mo
  8. Maine Coon
    • Detroit – $17.68/ mo
    • Grand Rapids – $20.53/ mo
    • Marquette – $17.06/ mo
  9. Persian
    • Detroit – $17.68/ mo
    • Grand Rapids – $20.53/ mo
    • Marquette – $17.06/ mo
  10. Ragdoll
    • Detroit – $17.68/ mo
    • Grand Rapids – $20.53/ mo
    • Marquette – $17.06/ mo
  11. Russian Blue
    • Detroit – $16.75/ mo
    • Grand Rapids – $19.46/ mo
    • Marquette – $16.17/ mo
  12. Scottish Fold
    • Detroit – $17.68/ mo
    • Grand Rapids – $20.53/ mo
    • Marquette – $17.06/ mo
  13. Siamese
    • Detroit – $17.68/ mo
    • Grand Rapids – $20.53/ mo
    • Marquette – $17.06/ mo
  14. Sphynx
    • Detroit – $16.87/ mo
    • Grand Rapids – $19.57/ mo
    • Marquette – $16.28/ mo
  15. Abyssinian
    • Detroit – $16.87/ mo
    • Grand Rapids – $19.57/ mo
    • Marquette – $16.28/ mo

Not finding your specific pet breed? Lemonade pet insurance is our #1 recommendation for Michigan and they’ll be able to give you a quick quote for your exact needs.

Michigan Pet Insurance Frequently Asked Questions

What is pet insurance? How does it work?

Pet insurance provides financial assistance to pet owners so that they do not need to pay completely out-of-pocket for veterinary care. All you need to do is enroll in a plan, pay a monthly bill to keep the policy active, and then your pet is covered!

Most pet insurance plans use a reimbursement model, which means that after your pet receives medical care, you as the pet owner are responsible for the initial vet bill, but can submit a reimbursement request to your insurance provider. Your insurance provider will then reimburse you for a certain amount of the vet bill, based on your reimbursement rate and your deductible (if applicable).

Do I need to enroll in pet insurance?

No, pet insurance is not required. However, it is recommended due to the high cost of veterinary care, as it could save you significant financial stress.

What services are covered by pet insurance?

Pet insurance primarily covers veterinary care that is needed to treat sudden illnesses or accidents. For example, any care that your pet receives for a broken bone, a bacterial infection, or a bite would be covered under pet insurance plans.

However, some pet insurance carriers offer numerous other services that qualify under coverage, including hospitalizations, medications, and preventative care. You may need to pay extra for these services or they may be available as add-on coverage.

In addition to what is covered by pet insurance, it is important to know that it is uncommon for pet insurance plans to cover medical care related to pre-existing conditions, which refer to conditions that were present before coverage began.

Do all vets accept pet insurance?

Unlike human health insurance, you do not need to find a vet that is “in network” or “accepts” your pet insurance plan. Since most pet insurance plans use a reimbursement model that involves the pet owner and the insurance carrier, your pet can receive medical care anywhere.

Are there any age restrictions involved with pet insurance?

Most pet insurance plans ask that animals be a certain age before they can qualify for coverage. For example, many cat insurance plans will not provide coverage for a kitten younger than 6 weeks old. These minimum age requirements may also vary by animal.

Should I enroll in a plan that has a deductible?

While most pet insurance plans do have deductibles, there are some that do not. If you choose a plan that does not have a deductible, the reimbursement rate may be different from those with deductibles.

Typically, a higher deductible means a lower monthly payment, and vice versa for lower deductible plans. However, whichever you choose depends on your financial preferences.

Are there any restricted pets for homeowners insurance in Michigan?

The most commonly restricted pets for homeowners insurance across the country are certain dog breeds that can be aggressive towards others, such as German Shepherds and Rottweilers. Other commonly restricted breeds include:

  • Akitas
  • Chow Chows
  • Doberman Pinschers
  • Bull Mastiffs
  • Pit Bull Terriers
  • Wolfhounds

Other pets may be excluded, depending on your home and your insurance provider. We suggest contacting your homeowners insurance provider for further clarification.

5 Useful Strategies for Keeping Your Pet Safe & Healthy in Michigan

To help prevent frequent trips to the vet, there are many strategies that you can implement to keep your pet healthy.

1. Maintain a Healthy Diet and Proper Hydration

Providing your pet with a nutritious diet and plenty of fresh water to drink is essential for keeping your pet healthy and hydrated. Consulting with your pet’s vet regarding the best foods to give your pet can be helpful, especially if your pet has certain dietary needs.

2. Daily Exercise

Exercise is also an important daily activity to implement into your pet’s routine. Exercise helps with weight management, strengthens muscles, bones, and joints, and promotes heart health. Activities such as walks and playing with toys are excellent sources of exercise for many pets.

3. Watch for Severe Weather

Michigan can experience all of the various weather extremes, including extreme heat, bitter cold and snow, and dangerous rain and wind storms. To ensure that your pet stays safe during all kinds of weather, it is important to be aware of the weather and take necessary precautions when appropriate.

4. Heat Stroke Prevention

As previously mentioned, temperatures in Michigan can reach the upper 90s (°F) in the summer months. When pets are outside, especially dogs and cats, heat stroke can occur in extremely hot temperatures in less than 15 minutes. To prevent heat stroke, it is important to keep your pets inside on hot days and have designated cooling spaces in your home for relief from the heat.

5. Provide a Clean and Safe Living Environment

The environment that an animal lives in is imperative to their health. If your pet lives in a cage, such as a bird or a small rodent, make sure you clean the cage regularly. If you own a larger animal, ensure they cannot ingest any toxic substances and drink clean water.

5 Unique Pet Rescue Shelters in Michigan

There are numerous rescue shelters in Michigan that provide food, shelter, and medical care for thousands of lost and abandoned animals each year. One of these sweet animals could be your next new family member. If you are looking to adopt a new pet, check out these animal rescue shelters in Michigan.

1. Michigan Animal Rescue League in Pontiac, MI

This shelter in Pontiac features primarily dogs and cats that are available for adoption. Eligible animals are displayed on the website and the application process can be accessed online. In addition to adoption services, this shelter also operates a community outreach program and foster care.


2. The SPCA of Southwest Michigan in Kalamazoo, MI

This non-profit no-kill animal shelter seeks to find permanent homes for all shelter residents. Notable programs include Kibble Connection, which partners with local community agencies to ensure that local dogs and cats have access to food, and Cold Noses Warm Hearts, which helps to ensure that outdoor pets are able to stay warm.


3. Friends for Animals of Metro Detroit in Dearborn, MI

This passionate shelter seeks to find permanent homes for animals and aims to create lasting relationships with the community to help end animal cruelty and neglect. Services offered include adoption, fostering, court-mandated service, and Doggy Day Out.


4. The Humane Society of Midland County in Midland, MI

One special component of this shelter is that all adoption applications are reviewed and families are matched to a pet that matches its lifestyle and preferences. This shelter refuses no animal, and most animals (extra strays) are available for same-day adoption.


5. The Humane Society of Huron Valley in Ann Arbor, MI

This shelter found permanent homes for nearly 5,000 animals last year. In addition to traditional adoption, this shelter operates other adoption services, such as Seniors for Seniors and Pajama Parties.


Conclusion

Pet insurance is one step pet owners can take to ensure that their pets stay healthy with minimal financial strain. All pets in Michigan can receive coverage; all you need to do is find the right plan for you and your pet, pay a monthly premium, and then you are good to go! No one wants to think about their pets becoming ill, but it is always better to be prepared in case. I have found that Lemonade pet insurance offers the best pet insurance in The Great Lakes State in my extensive research.

SwiftScore Ranking Methodology for Michigan

We ranked the best pet insurance policies in Michigan based on a variety of important factors including the following:

  • Average monthly price for a 2-year-old Labrador Retriever with a $500 deductible located in Michigan with a 48201 zip code
  • Coverage and benefits
  • Key policy details including accidents and illnesses, surgeries, annual check-ups, cancer treatment, lab tests, and more
  • AM Best rating of the underwriter
  • Reimbursement percentage
  • Annual benefit amount
  • Technology and user experience
  • Ease of sign up
  • Policy language clarity
  • User reviews