Premiums

• Coverage for cats and dogs as of September 2010 ranges from $10 to $70 per month, depending on the breed and health of the animal and where you live. Most plans have a deductible --- the average is $100 --- and maximum lifetime benefit.
  
  

Coverage

• Most basic pet health insurance plans cover only illness and emergency care. Coverage for routine and wellness visits costs more. Insurance plans typically cover medicines and treatments approved by the Food and Drug Administration but not alternative medicines.
  
  

Benefits

• For consumers with a healthy pet, the overall costs associated with pet health insurance do not outweigh the benefits, according to Consumer Reports. But if an animal needs major medical care, veterinary costs can add up quickly and can be offset by insurance.