Can You Insure a Parrot or Lizard? The Ultimate Exotic Pet Insurance Guide
Discover which insurance companies cover birds, reptiles, and small mammals. Learn costs and coverage options for exotic pets.
Dr. Amanda Liu
Exotic Animal Veterinarian
Most people think pet insurance is just for cats and dogs. But if you own a Macaw that lives for 60 years or a Bearded Dragon requiring specialized lighting, you know that exotic vet bills are exoticly expensive.
Yes, you can insure birds, reptiles, and small mammals. But your options are limited.
Who Actually Covers Exotics?
In the US, there is really only one major player for comprehensive exotic pet insurance: Nationwide.
Nationwide’s Avian & Exotic Pet Plan
This is the gold standard. It covers:
- Birds: Parrots, Cockatoos, Macaws, etc.
- Reptiles: Snakes, Turtles, Iguanas, Bearded Dragons.
- Small Mammals: Rabbits, Ferrets, Guinea Pigs, Sugar Gliders.
What it covers:
- Accidents & Illnesses
- Examinations
- Lab fees
- Prescriptions
- Hospitalization
Why Do You Need It?
Exotic pets are masters of hiding illness. By the time you notice your parrot is “fluffed up” or your lizard isn’t eating, they are often critically ill.
Cost Examples
- Parrot Broken Leg Surgery: $2,000 - $4,000
- Rabbit GI Stasis (Ileus) Treatment: $1,000 - $2,500
- Reptile Egg Binding Surgery: $1,500 - $3,000
The Cost of Coverage
Surprisingly, insuring an exotic pet is often cheaper than insuring a dog.
- Rabbit/Guinea Pig: ~$10 - $20 / month
- Reptile: ~$12 - $25 / month
- Large Bird (Macaw): ~$20 - $40 / month
Considering that one emergency visit for an exotic pet almost always requires a specialist (who charges double what a regular vet charges), the ROI (Return on Investment) for exotic insurance is incredibly high.
Is It Worth It?
- If you have a Rabbit or Ferret, absolutely. They are prone to high-cost emergencies like blockages and cancer.
- If you have a Hamster that lives 2 years, probably not.
- If you have a large Parrot that will outlive you? Yes. It is a lifetime medical protection for a lifelong companion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you get insurance for a parrot?
Yes! Nationwide offers avian coverage for parrots, macaws, and cockatoos. Premiums typically range from $20-$40/month.
Is reptile insurance worth it?
For reptiles like bearded dragons or iguanas, insurance costs $12-25/month and can save you thousands on specialist vet bills.
What exotic pets can be insured?
Nationwide covers birds, reptiles, rabbits, ferrets, guinea pigs, sugar gliders, and more under their Avian & Exotic Pet Plan.