Nationwide Exotic Pet Insurance
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- What Is Nationwide Exotic Pet Insurance?
- Why Exotic Pets Need Insurance
- What Exotic Pets Does Nationwide Cover?
- What Does Nationwide Exotic Pet Insurance Cover?
- What Is Not Covered?
- How Much Does Nationwide Exotic Pet Insurance Cost?
- Factors That Affect Premium Pricing
- How to Get a Quote & Apply
- Claims Process Explained
- Waiting Periods
- Deductibles & Reimbursement Options
- Pros and Cons
- Comparison With Other Exotic Pet Insurance Providers
- Is It Worth It?
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Final Verdict
Nationwide Exotic Pet Insurance – Complete Guide, Coverage & Pricing
Introduction
Exotic pets require specialized medical care — and veterinary treatment for unusual animals can be expensive.
That’s where Nationwide Exotic Pet Insurance comes in.
Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company is one of the few major insurance providers that offers coverage for exotic pets alongside traditional dogs and cats.
If you own a bird, reptile, rabbit, ferret, or another non-traditional pet, this guide explains everything you need to know about coverage, costs, exclusions, and how to apply.
What Is Nationwide Exotic Pet Insurance?
Nationwide Exotic Pet Insurance is a specialized policy designed to cover medical expenses for non-traditional pets.
Unlike standard pet insurance, this plan supports:
- Exotic animals
- Avian species
- Small mammals
- Reptiles
- Amphibians (in select cases)
It helps reduce financial stress when your exotic pet needs:
- Emergency surgery
- Illness treatment
- Diagnostic tests
- Hospitalization
Why Exotic Pets Need Insurance
Many pet owners assume exotic animals are low-maintenance — but veterinary care for these pets can be expensive.
✅ Common Reasons to Get Coverage
- Exotic vets charge higher consultation fees
- Specialized treatments are costly
- Emergency procedures can exceed $2,000+
- Routine checkups add up over time
For example:
- A bird fracture repair can cost hundreds or thousands
- Reptile infections require specialized diagnostics
- Rabbit surgery can become extremely expensive
Insurance protects your savings while ensuring your pet gets proper treatment.
What Exotic Pets Does Nationwide Cover?
Nationwide offers coverage for a wide range of exotic pets.
Common Covered Exotic Animals:
- Parrots & other birds
- Rabbits
- Ferrets
- Guinea pigs
- Turtles
- Lizards
- Snakes
- Chinchillas
Important:
Coverage availability may depend on your location and species.
Not all exotic animals qualify — some high-risk species may not be eligible.
What Does Nationwide Exotic Pet Insurance Cover?
The policy typically includes coverage for:
🏥 Illness Treatment
- Infections
- Respiratory diseases
- Digestive issues
- Parasites
🚑 Accidents & Injuries
- Broken bones
- Trauma
- Bite wounds
- Accidental poisoning
🧪 Diagnostic Testing
- X-rays
- Blood tests
- Laboratory exams
🏨 Hospitalization
- Overnight care
- Intensive treatment
💊 Prescriptions
- Medications prescribed by a licensed vet
Optional Coverage (If Available)
Some plans may include or allow add-ons for:
- Wellness care
- Routine exams
- Vaccinations (for applicable species)
- Preventive treatment
What Is Not Covered?
Like all insurance policies, exclusions apply.
Common exclusions include:
❌ Pre-existing conditions
❌ Cosmetic procedures
❌ Breeding-related complications
❌ Experimental treatments
❌ Elective procedures
Always read the policy terms carefully before purchasing.
How Much Does Nationwide Exotic Pet Insurance Cost?
Pricing depends on:
- Type of animal
- Age of pet
- Location
- Coverage limits
- Deductible chosen
Estimated Monthly Premiums:
- Small mammals: $10 – $25/month
- Birds: $15 – $40/month
- Reptiles: $10 – $30/month
Premiums increase for older pets or high-risk species.
Factors That Affect Premium Pricing
1. Pet Species
Some species require more specialized treatment.
2. Age of Pet
Older pets = higher risk = higher premiums.
3. Location
Veterinary costs vary by state or region.
4. Coverage Level
Higher reimbursement = Higher premium.
5. Deductible Choice
Higher deductible = Lower monthly payment.
How to Get a Quote & Apply
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Visit the official Nationwide website
- Select “Exotic Pet Insurance”
- Enter your pet details
- Choose deductible & reimbursement level
- Get your instant quote
- Complete enrollment
You may need:
- Pet medical history
- Species information
- Veterinary records
Approval is usually quick if eligibility requirements are met.
Claims Process Explained
Nationwide allows reimbursement-based claims.
How Claims Work:
- Visit an exotic vet
- Pay the vet bill
- Submit a claim online
- Upload invoice & medical records
- Receive reimbursement after review
Processing time usually takes a few days to weeks.
Waiting Periods
Most policies include waiting periods before coverage activates:
- Accident coverage: A few days
- Illness coverage: Typically 14 days
Check your policy details for exact timelines.
Deductibles & Reimbursement Options
You can choose:
Deductible Options:
- Low deductible → Higher premium
- High deductible → Lower premium
Reimbursement Percentage:
- 70%
- 80%
- 90%
Choosing wisely helps balance affordability and protection.
Pros and Cons
✅ Pros
- Covers exotic species
- Flexible policy options
- Trusted insurance company
- Easy online claims
❌ Cons
- Not all species covered
- Pre-existing conditions excluded
- Premiums may increase annually
Nationwide vs Other Exotic Pet Insurance Providers
Compared to smaller insurers, Nationwide offers:
✔ Brand reliability
✔ Broader coverage options
✔ Financial stability
Some niche companies may offer cheaper premiums — but fewer benefits.
Is Nationwide Exotic Pet Insurance Worth It?
It is worth it if:
✔ You own a valuable exotic pet
✔ Veterinary costs in your area are high
✔ You want financial protection against emergencies
If your pet rarely visits the vet, you may consider alternative savings strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Does Nationwide cover parrots?
Yes — many bird species including parrots are eligible.
2. Are pre-existing conditions covered?
No.
3. Can I insure multiple exotic pets?
Yes — policies can cover multiple pets.
4. How fast are claims paid?
Typically within days to weeks after approval.
5. Is there an age limit?
Some species may have age restrictions depending on policy terms.
Final Verdict
Nationwide Exotic Pet Insurance provides one of the most comprehensive coverage options for exotic pet owners.
If you own a bird, reptile, or small mammal, this policy can:
✔ Protect your finances
✔ Cover emergency treatment
✔ Reduce unexpected veterinary expenses
For exotic pet owners who want peace of mind — it is one of the strongest insurance options available today.