6 Best New Jersey (NJ) Pet Insurance Plans Compared in 2023

Updated on by Matthew H. Nash – Licensed Insurance Agent

Buying kitten or puppy insurance in New Jersey may seem complicated, as a New Jersey licensed insurance agent with several pets of my own, I’m here to tell you it’s not as complex as you may think. I have worked to find all the insurance information Garden State pet owners need. Whether you Live in Newark, Hoboken, Jersey City, Montclair, Paterson, Lakewood or down on the shore this article is for you. We may receive compensation when you click on the affiliate links below.

Top NJ Pet Insurance Scored, Ranked & With Cost

Use our below table to quickly compare the best pet insurance providers in New Jersey. The average monthly New Jersey specific prices are shown are based on a healthy 2-year-old Labrador Retriever with a $500 deductible and 90% reimbursement amount who is located in New Jersey with a 07305 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 New Jersey pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST IN NEW JERSEY

$34.92/mo

REIMBURSEMENT AMOUNT

90%

ANNUAL
 BENEFIT

$20,000

  • Lemonade has the best all around New Jersey 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 New Jersey pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST IN NEW JERSEY

$41.40/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
4.4
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to New Jersey pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST IN NEW JERSEY

$53.40/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
4.4
  • 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 NEW JERSEY

$64.29/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 New Jersey pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST IN NEW JERSEY

$53.54/mo

REIMBURSEMENT AMOUNT

90%

ANNUAL
 BENEFIT

$5,000

  • Figo offers users an amazing complimentary service to connect with New Jersey 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
4.1
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to New Jersey pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST IN NEW JERSEY

$97.81/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 New Jersey pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST IN NEW JERSEY

$34.92/mo

REIMBURSEMENT AMOUNT

90%

ANNUAL
 BENEFIT

$20,000

  • Lemonade has the best all around New Jersey 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 New Jersey for the 15 most popular breeds?

The price for New Jersey 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 September 2021 and are subject to change. If you’re looking for the most up-to-date cost of pet insurance in New Jersey we suggest getting a quote directly with Figo or Lemonade.

Dog Insurance Prices in New Jersey:

  1. Mixed Breed
    • Hoboken – $34.92/ mo
    • Montclair – $34.92/ mo
    • Jersey City – $41.74/ mo
  2. Labrador Retriever
    • Hoboken – $44.80/ mo
    • Montclair – $44.80/ mo
    • Jersey City – $53.54/ mo
  3. Golden Retriever
    • Hoboken – $54.52/ mo
    • Montclair – $54.52/ mo
    • Jersey City – $65.15/ mo
  4. German Shepherd
    • Hoboken – $50.99/ mo
    • Montclair – $50.99/ mo
    • Jersey City – $60.94/ mo
  5. Goldendoodle
    • Hoboken – $43.57/ mo
    • Montclair – $43.57/ mo
    • Jersey City – $52.07/ mo
  6. Chihuahua
    • Hoboken – $19.49/ mo
    • Montclair – $19.49/ mo
    • Jersey City – $23.29/ mo
  7. Siberian Husky
    • Hoboken – $48.60/ mo
    • Montclair – $48.60/ mo
    • Jersey City – $58.07/ mo
  8. Yorkshire Terrier
    • Hoboken – $26.84/ mo
    • Montclair – $26.84/ mo
    • Jersey City – $32.08/ mo
  9. American Pit Bull Terrier
    • Hoboken – $50.19/ mo
    • Montclair – $50.19/ mo
    • Jersey City – $59.98/ mo
  10. Australian Shepherd
    • Hoboken – $33.20/ mo
    • Montclair – $33.20/ mo
    • Jersey City – $39.67/ mo
  11. Dachshund
    • Hoboken – $31.00/ mo
    • Montclair – $31.00/ mo
    • Jersey City – $37.05/ mo
  12. Shih Tzu
    • Hoboken – $26.51/ mo
    • Montclair – $26.51/ mo
    • Jersey City – $31.68/ mo
  13. French Bulldog
    • Hoboken – $62.93/ mo
    • Montclair – $62.93/ mo
    • Jersey City – $75.21/ mo
  14. Boxer
    • Hoboken – $74.91/ mo
    • Montclair – $74.91/ mo
    • Jersey City – $89.52/ mo
  15. Labradoodle
    • Hoboken – $43.57/ mo
    • Montclair – $43.57/ mo
    • Jersey City – $52.07/ mo

Cat Insurance Prices in New Jersey:

  1. Mixed Breed
    • Hoboken – $19.52/ mo
    • Jersey City – $23.32/ mo
    • Montclair – $19.52/ mo
  2. American Shorthair
    • Hoboken – $28.27/ mo
    • Jersey City – $33.79/ mo
    • Montclair – $28.27/ mo
  3. Bengal
    • Hoboken – $22.18/ mo
    • Jersey City – $26.50/ mo
    • Montclair – $22.18/ mo
  4. Bombay
    • Hoboken – $22.18/ mo
    • Jersey City – $26.50/ mo
    • Montclair – $22.18/ mo
  5. British Shorthair
    • Hoboken – $22.18/ mo
    • Jersey City – $26.50/ mo
    • Montclair – $22.18/ mo
  6. Exotic
    • Hoboken – $22.18/ mo
    • Jersey City – $26.50/ mo
    • Montclair – $22.18/ mo
  7. Himalayan
    • Hoboken – $22.18/ mo
    • Jersey City – $26.50/ mo
    • Montclair – $22.18/ mo
  8. Maine Coon
    • Hoboken – $24.59/ mo
    • Jersey City – $29.38/ mo
    • Montclair – $24.59/ mo
  9. Persian
    • Hoboken – $24.59/ mo
    • Jersey City – $29.38/ mo
    • Montclair – $24.59/ mo
  10. Ragdoll
    • Hoboken – $24.59/ mo
    • Jersey City – $29.38/ mo
    • Montclair – $24.59/ mo
  11. Russian Blue
    • Hoboken – $22.18/ mo
    • Jersey City – $26.50/ mo
    • Montclair – $22.18/ mo
  12. Scottish Fold
    • Hoboken – $24.59/ mo
    • Jersey City – $29.38/ mo
    • Montclair – $24.59/ mo
  13. Siamese
    • Hoboken – $24.59/ mo
    • Jersey City – $29.38/ mo
    • Montclair – $24.59/ mo
  14. Sphynx
    • Hoboken – $22.18/ mo
    • Jersey City – $26.50/ mo
    • Montclair – $22.18/ mo
  15. Abyssinian
    • Hoboken – $22.18/ mo
    • Jersey City – $26.50/ mo
    • Montclair – $22.18/ mo

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

New Jersey Pet Insurance FAQs

What is pet insurance and why is it practical in New Jersey?

Pet insurance is a policy that allows you to submit reimbursement claims for medical care, that way you don’t have to pay an entire vet bill yourself. It’s a great tool to have in New Jersey and anywhere, because bills at the vet can often end up higher than you’d imagine, sometimes running into six-figures. Sadly, many uninsured pet owners have to put their pets to sleep when they can’t afford the cost of veterinarian treatment.

Pet insurance works by signing up with a dedicated pet insurance company. After your application is approved, you must then pay a monthly fee, called a premium to keep your policy active. In the event your pet becomes ill or experiences an injury, you’ll pay your bill up front. Afterward, you’ll submit a reimbursement claim from your insurance company.

It’s helpful to understand that insurers are known for excluding certain pre-existing conditions from reimbursement. I recommend getting pet insurance while your pet is still young, preferably before their first birthday and after eight weeks of age.

How old does my pet need to be for insurance?

Most pet insurance companies will only accept pets after they turn eight weeks old. The majority of insurance providers do not have an upper-age policy. Younger pets are more affordable to insure since they have fewer pre-existing conditions and are typically in the best health, but older pets can still get insured too.

Do you think pet insurance is worth it in NJ?

Absolutely! Medical care isn’t cheap for any of us, humans and pets included. You wouldn’t want to go without insurance for yourself, right? So why wouldn’t you want insurance for your pet? Emergencies are a fact of life we have to live with. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide if paying a monthly premium is worth it compared to paying a bill out of pocket.

What’s covered and excluded with pet insurance?

This depends on your insurance provider and policy. Typically, if the illness or accident is “sudden and catastrophic,” you can count on it being eligible for reimbursement. If your dog breaks a bone? Covered. Your cat swallowed some toxic food? Covered.

An example of an exclusion, or something not being covered, is if your cat has diabetes prior to applying for insurance coverage. This would be deemed a “pre-existing condition.”

You’ll find that many insurance companies now offer add-on packages in addition to the main policy that covers useful things like heartworm prevention, wellness exams, and vaccinations, saving you more money.

How does reimbursement work?

Insurance isn’t that complicated. The math is more straightforward than you think. Here’s how reimbursement works:

You have an annual deductible, the amount you pay before your insurance pays.
You also have a reimbursement percentage, the amount you receive back after submitting a bill. Next, you have a max benefit, the most your insurer will pay towards claims.

So, based on that, let’s see a sample:

Annual Deductible: $550
Reimbursement Amount: 85%
Annual Max Benefit: $5,000

  1. You pay a vet bill totaling $4,000.
  2. The bill ($4,000) minus your deductible ($550) totals $3,450.
  3. With a reimbursement percentage of 85% of $3,450, you get back $2,932.

See, that wasn’t so bad! Looking for something a little different? Check out Trupanion, an insurance provider who pays veterinarians directly, no reimbursement claims are needed.

Do I want a lower or higher deductible?

Lower deductibles equal higher monthly premiums. That means that although you’ll pay more each month, you will owe less at a visit to the vet. On the other hand, a higher deductible means lower monthly premiums, thus, a higher vet bill. Figure out what your own financial situation looks like to find the best option for you. Most pet owners end up choosing a $250 or $500 deductible.

Are there any dog or cat breeds restricted for homeowners insurance in New Jersey?

New Jersey may have restrictions on some dog breeds, including, but not limited to:

  • Akitas
  • Bull Mastiffs
  • Chow Chows
  • Doberman Pinschers
  • German Shepherds
  • Pit Bull Terriers
  • Rottweilers
  • Wolfhounds

You will not likely run into any homeowners insurance issues for cat breeds. Please consult with your home insurance to find the most accurate policy information.

5 Strategies to Keep Your Pet Safe & Healthy in New Jersey

1. Swarming Storms

New Jersey’s climate creates thunderstorms quite frequently. Thunder alone isn’t a hazard, it’s the lightning that comes with it to worry about. Get ready for intense wind, huge rainfalls, and windy days, as these are all things you must watch out for, especially with pets:

  • During storms, your pets may experience panic attacks, as well as general anxiety and restlessness. You must stay calm to help them stay calm.
  • Steer clear of metal and water, potential lightning conductors.
  • Don’t leave your pets outdoors, even if the storm seems mild. Weather can take a turn for the worse at any moment.
  • Some animals are afraid of thunder. Play soft music or a quiet show on TV to distract them.
  • Even after a storm is over, it could leave all kinds of hazards behind. Clear the area outdoors before allowing your pets to go outside.

2. Harmful Hurricanes and Tropical Terrors

Major hurricanes are, thankfully not too common. New Jersey rarely gets a direct hit, however, the state often has to deal with hurricane remnants and tropical storms. These storms cause flooding, power outages, destruction, property loss, injuries, and loss of life. Make sure you and your pets are prepared:

  • When storms are forecasted, be prepared to evacuate to a designated safety area. Make sure you find somewhere that accepts pets as well.
  • Have an emergency kit stocked with the essentials for both you and your pets.
  • Do not allow your pet to drink flood water. The water leftover after a hurricane can be unsafe to drink and can even hide debris and other hazards.

3. Chilly Winters

The upper east coast, including New Jersey, is known for cold winters. Winter weather creeps in around October and can last all the way into April, bringing tons of snow. Get ready to handle blizzards, heavy snow, ice storms, and more winter weather.

  • When winter storms are forecasted, prepare yourself with food, water, and other survival supplies for you and your pets while you shelter in place.
  • Just like people, pets need protection. Your pet’s toes, nose, and ears are especially vulnerable to cold temperatures. Provide warm and dry shelter, as well as lots of water.
  • Puppies and kittens as well as senior and/or sick animals should be kept indoors.
  • Supervise your pet closely when they are outside in the cold. Consider protective booties for your dog. Wipe away any excess snow or ice on your pet’s paws as soon as they return indoors.

4. Summer Safety

New Jersey has a humid climate that can often feel hot, even if the temperature isn’t excessively high, making summer a not-so-pleasant experience for many. On the other hand, summer also brings all kinds of outdoor opportunities. However you feel about New Jersey summers, you should be prepared to handle the weather.

  • Early morning or late evening is the best time to exercise your pets. Avoid hot, mid-day sun.
  • Always provide ample shade and cold water for your pets if they’re going to spend any significant time outdoors.
  • Learn the symptoms of heat stroke: Excessive panting or difficulty breathing, dehydration, excessive drooling, fever, bright red gums, lack of urine, rapid pulse, muscle tremors, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness.
  • Animals with flat faces, like pugs and persian cats, are at higher risk for heat stroke since they cannot pant effectively. These animals, along with elderly, overweight, and ill pets, should be kept indoors in air-conditioned or cool rooms as much as possible.
  • Do not leave pets alone in vehicles. Cars can dangerously overheat much quicker than you’d imagine.

5. Wildfire Worries

Although New Jersey is known as the Garden State, wildfires are a regular occurrence, especially in more rural areas. Here’s what you and your pets can do to prepare:

  • Bring your animals inside at the first sign of a wildfire to avoid a costly separation.
  • In the event of an evacuation, be sure to bring your pets with you to an animal-friendly location.
  • Have a supply kit at the ready with all the essentials for you and your pets.

5 Cool New Jersey Pet Shelters

Are you wanting to add a fluffy or furry member to your family? We know just the place. These cool New Jersey pet shelters are the perfect place to find your next pet.

1. Mt. Pleasant Animal Shelter, East Hanover, NJ

Mt. Pleasant is “building a community of people and organizations working together to save today’s, and prevent tomorrow’s, abused, neglected and homeless animals.” Their home-to-home program enables owners to find new, loving homes for their pets without having to drop them off at the shelter.


2. Homeward Bound Pet Adoption Center, Blackwood, NJ

Founded back in 1997, Homeward Bound is the leading animal welfare agency in the region with the highest intake and the highest save rate. Every day, they provide high-quality care for animals searching for their furever homes, striving to unite pets with the best owners.


3. Jersey Shore Animal Center, Brick Township, NJ

Jersey Shore Animal Center (JSAC) rescues, cares for, and re-homes unwanted, abused, abandoned, and sick animals. They also operate a low-cost spay/neuter clinic, offer affordable vaccines and microchipping services, and even provide pet therapy to residents of local nursing homes.


4. New Beginnings Animal Rescue, East Brunswick, NJ

New Beginning Animal Rescue (NBAR) is a cat rescue dedicated to providing a safe haven for homeless animals by getting cats healthy, socialized, and ready for adoption. They provide a safe and loving space with medical care, quality food, and care. With the help of a volunteer staff, NBAR organizes fundraisers, community-building events, and guidance to adopters to ensure every cat goes home healthy and happy.


5. St. Hubert’s Animal Welfare Center, Madison, NJ

For over 80 years, St. Hubert’s has been dedicated to helping animals in need, regardless of species, size, or temperament. St. Hubert’s operates three campuses across New Jersey, supporting communities with programs such as pet food banks, vaccine clinics and emergency pet boarding. Together with their partners, St. Hubert’s is the largest provider of animal services in the region, impacting the lives of over 100,000 animals every year.


Conclusion

Now you see that finding the right pet insurance in New Jersey is relatively easy! Though you’ve learned a lot today, here’s the main takeaway: sign up for pet insurance while your pet is still a kitten or puppy, before their first birthday and after they’re eight weeks old, this way; you’ll get the lowest prices and fewest restrictions. Regardless, whether your pet is young or old, insurance can be extremely valuable. In our research, we discovered that Lemonade is a great provider with low premiums and high quality.

SwiftScore Ranking Methodology for New Jersey

We ranked the best pet insurance policies in New Jersey 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 New Jersey with a 07305 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