Pet insurance in the Netherlands 2026

Having a pet in the Netherlands is a joy, but it also comes with the responsibility of keeping your companion safe and healthy.

Dutch veterinary care is high quality, but costs can rise quickly in emergencies, or if your pet needs long-term treatment.

In this guide, we walk you through what you need to know, including:

Whether pet insurance is required by law
How pet insurance works in the Netherlands
How to secure pet insurance, step-by-step
The difference between pet insurance and liability insurance AVP
What pet insurance usually covers, and typical costs in 2026
And our tips for choosing the right coverage for your pet

By the end, you will have a clear picture of how to protect both your pet and yourself while living in the Netherlands.

Is pet insurance mandatory?

Pet health insurance is not mandatory in the Netherlands. If your pet needs care, you can always pay the vet directly without insurance.

That said, veterinary bills can add up fast.

Surgery, diagnostics, and emergency treatment often cost hundreds to thousands of euros. Pet insurance helps cover part of these costs, depending on the policy you choose.

While pet health insurance is optional, pet owners are legally responsible for damage or injury caused by their animal. This falls under a different type of cover called personal liability insurance.

How pet insurance works in the Netherlands

Most pet insurance policies in the Netherlands focus on dogs and cats, although some insurers offer limited cover for animals like rabbits or birds, usually with lower limits.

Most policies also include a waiting period, often around 30 days

Young pets can often be insured from around eight weeks old. Older pets may face higher premiums or limits on new policies.

In practice, pet insurance works like this:

You visit a veterinarian of your choice
You pay the bill at the clinic
You submit the invoice to your insurer
The insurer reimburses part of the cost

Reimbursement is usually a percentage of the vet bill (such as 50, 70, or 80 percent), up to an annual limit. Some policies also include a deductible which you must pay yourself before reimbursement starts.

Premiums are paid monthly and usually increase as your pet gets older. Breed and medical risk can also affect the price.

How to get pet insurance, step by step

Getting pet insurance is usually quick, and can be done almost completely online.

Here’s what to do:

Step 1: Choose 2-3 providers. Pick an insurer with a strong online reputation.
Step 2: Compare coverage. Make sure to look out for reimbursement levels, limits, and deductibles.
Step 3: Register your pet. You will have to provide your pet’s age, breed, and basic medical history.
Step 4: Apply online. Once approved, cover starts after the waiting period.
Step 5: Visit the vet, and make your claim. Pay the vet after your first visit, submit your invoice digitally, and receive your reimbursement.

Pet insurance versus liability insurance AVP

Although they are often confused, pet insurance and liability insurance serve very different purposes, and many pet owners need both.

Pet health insurance helps cover medical costs for your own pet, such as:

Vet visits
Surgery and hospital stays
Medication
Emergency treatment

Liability insurance AVP covers damage or injury your pet causes to other people or their property. In the Netherlands, this is usually included in a personal liability insurance policy.

Liability insurance is not legally mandatory, but it is strongly recommended. You are financially responsible for any damage caused by your pet, even if it happens by accident.

Feather offers personal liability insurance that includes cover for damage caused by pets, so you are protected in everyday situations.

What pet insurance usually covers

Pet insurance is designed to help with unexpected and medically necessary veterinary care.

Coverage varies by insurer, but most policies include similar elements. Typical cover includes:

Vet visits and diagnostics: Consultations, examinations, blood tests, X rays, and other diagnostic procedures related to illness or injury.
Surgery and hospital care: Operations, anesthesia, and hospital stays after accidents or serious conditions.
Medication: Prescription medicines related to covered treatment or recovery.
Emergency care: Urgent treatment after accidents or sudden illness, including evenings and weekends.
Chronic conditions: Ongoing treatment for long term conditions such as diabetes or arthritis, often with annual limits.

The exact level of cover depends on your policy. Annual limits always apply, which means there is a maximum amount paid per year.

Pet insurance does not cover every expense. Most policies do not cover:

Pre-existing conditions
Routine checkups and vaccinations
Pregnancy and breeding-related costs
Non-essential or elective treatments

Knowing the exclusions helps avoid surprises. Some insurers offer optional preventive packages, but these cost extra and usually come with strict limits.

Always check the policy details before signing up.

How much does pet insurance cost in 2026

The cost depends on your pet’s age, breed, and the coverage you choose. Annual coverage limits and deductible amounts also affect price.

On average, you can expect to pay around €30 to €70 for dogs, and €15 to €40 for cats.

Premiums often increase over time as pets age and veterinary costs rise.

Does pet insurance make sense for you?

Pet insurance can be helpful, but it is not for everyone.

It often makes sense if:

You have a young pet
Your pet’s breed has higher health risks
You want protection from large, unexpected bills
You prefer predictable monthly costs

It may be less useful if your pet is older, you have savings set aside for vet bills, or if you mainly expect routine care

How to choose the right pet insurance

Small details matter when you need to claim. When comparing between plans, remember to check:

Annual coverage limits and reimbursement percentages
Deductible structures
Waiting periods and ease of the claims process
Cover for chronic conditions
Availability of English support

Comparing these points helps you choose a policy that fits both your pet and your budget.

Moving to the Netherlands with a pet

If you are moving with a pet, there are extra rules to keep in mind.

Pets from the EU need a pet passport, microchip, and valid rabies vaccination. Pets from outside the EU may need additional tests and waiting periods.

Insurance usually starts only after arrival. Medical issues from before the policy start date are not covered, including travel related problems.

Conclusion

Pet insurance in the Netherlands is optional, but it can make handling unexpected veterinary costs much easier. For many pet owners, it offers necessary peace of mind.

Liability insurance is just as important, since you’re legally responsible for damage or injury caused by your pet.

Feather can help you arrange personal liability insurance that covers pets, as well as pet insurance designed for expats in the Netherlands, all explained in clear English.

Choosing the right cover means protecting your pet and yourself, so you can focus on enjoying life together in the Netherlands!