VetCompare
Back to Guides
basicsGeneral Info

Accident Only vs Accident & Illness Cover

Dec 24, 2025
Factual information only — not financial product advice. This guide is illustrative and may not reflect every policy available in the Australian market. It is factual information about how pet insurance works, not financial product advice: VetCompare does not recommend whether to buy, keep or change pet insurance, or which insurer or policy to choose, and is not paid by insurers. Policies are issued by insurers. Before taking out, renewing or changing a policy, read the insurer's Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) and Target Market Determination (TMD) in full. Inclusions, exclusions, waiting periods, sub-limits and premiums vary between policies. For advice about your own circumstances, speak with a licensed financial adviser.

Introduction

Choosing between Accident Only and Accident & Illness cover is often the first decision pet owners face. This guide explains how these cover types differ and what they typically include.

Note: This information is general in nature and does not constitute financial advice.

What is Accident Only cover?

Accident Only cover applies to sudden, unexpected injuries from external events.

Commonly covered scenarios:

  • Falls and fractures

  • Car accidents

  • Bite wounds

  • Snake or insect bites

These policies usually have lower premiums but don't cover illnesses.

What is Accident & Illness cover?

Accident & Illness policies include everything in Accident Only, plus treatment for illnesses.

Examples of covered illnesses (subject to policy terms):

  • Ear and eye infections

  • Digestive conditions

  • Skin allergies

  • Cancer

  • Arthritis

Waiting periods for illnesses typically apply.

Key differences at a glance

Feature

Accident Only

Accident & Illness

Accidents

✔ Included

✔ Included

Illnesses

✖ Not covered

✔ Covered

Premium cost

Usually lower

Usually higher

Waiting periods

Short

Longer for illness

Popularity

Less common

Most common

Things to consider

When reviewing policy types, check:

  • Annual benefit limits

  • Sub-limits for specific conditions

  • Exclusions listed in the PDS

  • Whether chronic or recurring conditions are covered

Summary

Accident Only and Accident & Illness policies serve different needs. Understanding each type helps you interpret policy features more clearly when comparing options.

Next step:

Learn how waiting periods affect coverage eligibility.