4Paws

FAQs

• What are the main differences between Time Limited, Maximum Benefit, and Lifetime policies?

  Time Limited policies provide cover for illnesses or injuries for up to 12 months (365 days).

  Maximum Benefit policies cover an injury or illness up to the specified limit on the certificate of insurance.

  Lifetime policies, however, cover ongoing conditions for the entirety of the pet’s life, as long as there is no break in cover and premiums remain current.

• What is Lifetime cover?

  Lifetime policies cover veterinary treatment costs for illnesses or injuries throughout the pet’s lifetime. However, they exclude any condition, including symptoms, that occurred before the policy start date.

  While cover is renewable annually, continued coverage for recurring conditions is available if the renewal invitation is accepted. Terms may change over time, and certain treatments may require a contribution from the policyholder once the pet reaches a specific age. Premiums may increase due to factors like age, breed, claims history, and location.

• Do claims payments go directly to the vet?

  Yes, claims can be paid directly to the vet if the practice is willing to accept payment from the insurer. It’s advisable to check with the veterinary clinic for confirmation.

• When would I need to pay my excess?

  For Lifetime policies, an excess is payable per condition, each policy year. For Standard & Maximum Benefit policies, a fixed excess is payable per condition. Some policies may also require a contribution excess after the pet reaches a certain age, applied to each claim.

• Would any costs exceed the excess amount?

  Yes, if the vet claims for something not covered, such as prescription diets, or if the claim exceeds the insured limit, additional costs will need to be covered by the policyholder.

• Does the policy cover annual vaccinations?

  No, like most pet insurance policies, 4Paws does not cover annual vaccinations or preventive healthcare products such as worming and flea treatments.

• Is my pet covered for veterinary treatment abroad?

  Under Maximum Benefit or Lifetime policies, pets are covered for treatment abroad for up to 45 days per policy year.

• Does the policy cover spaying or castration?

  Routine or elective spaying and castration are not covered. However, if a procedure is necessary to treat a diagnosed condition, costs may be considered.

• Is dental care included?

  Yes, dental treatment for illnesses or injuries is covered based on the selected policy level, provided the pet has had an annual check-up and any recommended dental treatment was followed. Cosmetic procedures, such as descaling and polishing, are not covered.

• When does my policy start?

  All policies cover injuries 24 hours after the start date, while cover for illnesses begins after a 14-day exclusion period.

• What is a pre-existing condition?

  This refers to any injury or illness that occurred before the policy start date, along with any related conditions.

• Is caesarean surgery covered for pregnancy?

  No, treatments related to pregnancy or breeding are not covered.

• What is Complementary Treatment?

  Complementary treatments include acupuncture, herbal medication, homeopathy, chiropractic manipulation, hydrotherapy, and osteopathy, as prescribed by a vet.

• Is behaviour treatment covered under Complementary Treatment?

  No, but claims for behavioural illnesses can be made under Veterinary Fees.

• Does the policy cover out-of-hours emergency vet visits?

  Yes, emergency treatment is covered; however, a letter from the vet may be required to confirm that an emergency consultation was necessary.

• Can long-term treatments extend beyond 12 months?

  With Lifetime or Maximum Benefit policies, long-term treatment is covered as long as there’s no break in cover, up to the policy limits.

  However, Time Limited policies restrict cover for each condition to 12 months, after which pre-existing conditions will be excluded from future cover.

• How is pet insurance cost calculated?

  The cost is based on several factors, including the pet’s age, breed, location, and veterinary fees in the area. A quick quote can be obtained to understand specific costs.

• What is FirstVet?

  FirstVet provides 24/7 digital veterinary services, offering free video consultations to help assess and advise on the pet’s health before a physical vet visit is needed.

• How do I access FirstVet?

  Simply download the FirstVet app and register your pet(s) to access the service.