Best Pet Insurance For Maltese: My Recommendations
Canine Bible is reader-supported. We receive affiliate commissions via some of our links. This doesn’t affect rankings. Learn more.
In the world of canine companions, the Maltese breed is widely adored for its affectionate demeanor, elegant appearance, and diminutive size. These pint-sized pups may be small, but they pack a big personality and bring endless joy to their owners. However, as any pet parent knows, unexpected accidents and illnesses can strike anytime, leaving behind a hefty vet bill.
That’s where pet insurance comes in. With a range of coverage options and providers available, finding the best policy for your Maltese can be daunting. In this article, we’ve done the research for you and compiled a list of the top pet insurance options specifically tailored to the needs of your beloved Maltese. So whether your furry friend is a lap dog or a pint-sized adventurer, you can rest assured that they’ll be protected with the best care possible.
Best Pet Insurance For Maltese
Best Overall
Best Personalized
Spot
Offers the most
customizable plans for your budget
and specific needs of your Maltese.
Best No-Cap Payouts
Healthy Paws
Great for covering major
medical or ongoing expenses.
Beneficial for high-risk breeds.
What Is Maltese Pet Insurance?
Pet insurance is a healthcare policy that provides coverage for your pet and reimburses specific veterinary expenses. This ensures that your savings remain secure despite unforeseen medical costs. Such a policy involves a monthly premium. Should your pet fall ill or sustain an injury, you would file a claim with the insurance company to recoup your expenses.
How Much Does Pet Insurance Cost For Maltese?
The cost of pet insurance for Maltese will vary based on several factors, including the pet’s existing health conditions, sex, age, and the area you reside in. It’s important to remember that with the progression of veterinary technology and increased claims within your locality, your insurance premiums may rise. For example, even if your Maltese is quoted at $55 per month, this rate is not fixed and could change.
According to our research, plans for Maltese can range from $24 to $40. You may spend more or less depending on where you live, the deductible rate and the reimbursement percentage you choose. Maltese owners can expect to pay an average $32 monthly premium.
The monthly premium for Maltese pet insurance
$24 to $40
Pet Insurance Quotes For Maltese
We compared quotes from renowned pet insurance providers to estimate your expected average monthly premium for Maltese at different life stages.
| Company | Deductible | Reimbursement | Annual Reimbursement Limit | Monthly Price | Location | Gender | Breed | Age |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Healthy Paws | $500 | 70% | Unlimited | $41.79 | Orlando, 32801 | Male | Maltese | 5 years |
| Lemonade | $500 | 70% | $100,000 | $25.37 | Orlando, 32801 | Male | Maltese | 5 years |
| Spot Pet Insurance | $500 | 70% | Unlimited | $53.94 | Orlando, 32801 | Male | Maltese | 5 years |
| Healthy Paws | $500 | 80% | Unlimited | $27.64 | Dayton, 45402 | Female | Maltese | 1 year |
| Lemonade | $500 | 80% | $100,000 | $20.31 | Dayton, 45402 | Female | Maltese | 1 year |
| Spot Pet Insurance | $500 | 80% | Unlimited | $45.79 | Dayton, 45402 | Female | Maltese | 1 year |
| Healthy Paws | $500 | 70% | Unlimited | $25.73 | Columbus, 68601 | Female | Maltese | 3 months |
| Lemonade | $500 | 70% | $100,000 | $11.00 | Columbus, 68601 | Female | Maltese | 3 months |
| Spot Pet Insurance | $500 | 70% | Unlimited | $35.61 | Columbus, 68601 | Female | Maltese | 3 months |
Maltese puppy monthly cost: $24
Adult Maltese monthly cost: $31
Senior Maltese monthly cost: $40
Is Pet Insurance For Maltese Worth it?
The decision to purchase pet insurance for your Maltese hinges on various factors, including your pet’s health risk proclivity, tolerance for financial risk, and overall financial circumstances.
Consider a scenario where your Maltese falls seriously ill or suffers an injury from an accident, incurring veterinary bills in the thousands. On average, the most common dog treatments cost $254.[1] A more severe and common condition in Maltese, like Hip Dysplasia, can cost between $1,500 and $6,000 to diagnose and treat. Can you pay for an unexpected $6,000 veterinary bill out-of-pocket? Most people can’t. The Federal Reserve states that 40% of Americans don’t have enough savings to cover a $400 emergency and 57% of U.S. adults cannot afford a $1,000 emergency expense.[2]
Investing in pet insurance for your Maltese is a wise choice to protect your finances and ensure your dog can receive the necessary care. With pet insurance, should an unexpected accident or illness occur, you could be reimbursed for 70% to 100% of the veterinary costs, depending on the details of your plan and provider. Pet insurance gives peace of mind, knowing your finances and pet’s health are covered.
Predict & Protect Your Maltese’s Future Health
Canine Bible uses years of clinical health findings, pet insurance data points, trends, and surveys to identify common health conditions in dogs. By gaining insight into your Maltese’s potential future health issues and risks, you can take preventive action today and ensure that your Maltese does not become a part of these statistics.
1 in 3
dogs will need emergency veterinary treatment every year.
$250 to $8K
is the average cost of unexpected veterinary care for dogs.[3]
1012
Maltese dog parents seek health advice every month.
15.2%
of Maltese could develop paroxysmal dyskinesia, a movement disorder. [4]
Dogs that develop chronic conditions under pet insurance coverage are guaranteed reimbursement for these issues for the duration of their life. If you know your dog’s breed is predisposed to certain health issues, we strongly advise getting a pet insurance policy while your dog is still healthy. Chronic health conditions, emergencies, and vet visits can increase costs throughout your Maltese’s life. Pet Insurance can spare you a lot of financial trouble.
How Pet Insurance Helps With Common Health Conditions In Maltese
Cost to treat patellar luxation
Patellar luxation in Shiba Inu involves the dislocation of the kneecap from its normal position. This condition, often genetic, can cause lameness or an abnormal gait. Factors like trauma or congenital defects contribute to its development. Severity varies, potentially leading to arthritis or reduced mobility in affected dogs.
*The overall cost of diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries may vary. The above cost is based on average veterinary vet bill reports and claims submitted by pet insurance policyholders. We’ve used a 90% reimbursement rate for this scenario.
Cost to treat portosystemic shunts
Portosystemic shunts in dogs involve abnormal blood vessel connections allowing blood to bypass the liver, leading to unfiltered blood reaching systemic circulation. This condition can cause toxins to accumulate, affecting neurological and digestive health. It’s often congenital, resulting from genetic predispositions in this breed.
*The overall cost of diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries may vary. The above cost is based on average veterinary vet bill reports and claims submitted by pet insurance policyholders. We’ve used a 90% reimbursement rate for this scenario.
Cost to treat patent ductus arteriosus
This congenital heart defect occurs when a fetal blood vessel fails to close after birth, leading to abnormal circulation. Affected Maltese may experience heart failure or reduced exercise tolerance.
*The overall cost of diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries may vary. The above cost is based on average veterinary vet bill reports and claims submitted by pet insurance policyholders. We’ve used a 90% reimbursement rate for this scenario.
Cost to treat cryptorchidism
In Maltese, Cryptorchidism is marked by the absence of one or both testicles from the scrotum. This often hereditary issue can escalate to cancer risks. Surgical intervention is typically recommended to avert potential complications.
*The overall cost of diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries may vary. The above cost is based on average veterinary vet bill reports and claims submitted by pet insurance policyholders. We’ve used a 90% reimbursement rate for this scenario.
Cost to treat cataracts
Cataracts in Maltese result in the lens of the eye becoming opaque, significantly impairing vision. Often hereditary, they can also arise from aging, diabetes, or eye injuries. Initially, cataracts may cause slight visual disturbances but can progress to blindness. Surgical removal is the primary treatment to improve sight.
*The overall cost of diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries may vary. The above cost is based on average veterinary vet bill reports and claims submitted by pet insurance policyholders. We’ve used a 90% reimbursement rate for this scenario.
Cost to treat tracheal collapse
Tracheal Collapse in Maltese is characterized by a weakened trachea, leading to a characteristic honking cough and difficulty breathing. Factors such as obesity or environmental stressors often aggravate this condition, necessitating careful management.
*The overall cost of diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries may vary. The above cost is based on average veterinary vet bill reports and claims submitted by pet insurance policyholders. We’ve used a 90% reimbursement rate for this scenario.
Cost to treat hip dysplasia
Hip dysplasia involves abnormal hip joint development, leading to looseness and instability. This genetic disorder is exacerbated by rapid growth, obesity, and environmental factors. Symptoms include limping, difficulty in movement, and arthritis.
*The overall cost of diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries may vary. The above cost is based on average veterinary vet bill reports and claims submitted by pet insurance policyholders. We’ve used a 90% reimbursement rate for this scenario.
Cost to treat entropion
Entropion in Maltese is a condition in which the eyelid rolls inward, causing the eyelashes to rub against the cornea. This results in discomfort, tearing, and potential corneal damage. It’s often inherited, though it can also arise from eyelid injuries or muscular spasms. Treatment typically involves surgical correction.
*The overall cost of diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries may vary. The above cost is based on average veterinary vet bill reports and claims submitted by pet insurance policyholders. We’ve used a 90% reimbursement rate for this scenario.
Why Get Pet Insurance For Maltese?
Here is how pet insurance can benefit Maltese owners and their pets.
Benefits For Maltese
- Access to better care and health outcomes due to financial barriers removed
- Cover hereditary conditions and get better breed-specific care
- Prompt access to medical treatments
- Ongoing access to healthcare and emergency care
- Preventive care options
- Facilitates treatment from specialists
Benefits For Owners
- Decreases the likelihood of economic euthanasia when the cost is a limiting factor for treatment
- Reduces unexpected veterinary costs
- Financial peace of mind
- Cover third-party liabilities
- Avoid veterinary rising cost
- Can help you find your missing/stolen pet
How to Pick The Best Maltese Pet Insurance
Best Pet Insurance For Maltese
1. Best Overall Maltese Pet Insurance
Lemonade
Who It’s For: Excellent for Maltese parents seeking the best all-around comprehensive coverage for accidents & illness at a value price.
Deductible: $100, $250, $500 or $750
Reimbursement rates: 70%, 80% or 90%
Annual payout limit: $5K, $10K, $20K, $50K or $100K
Why we recommended it: We named Lemonade our best overall pet insurance for Maltese for its comprehensive coverage, pricing, availability, and customer service. Lemonade premiums usually start at just $10 monthly, the lowest in the industry. We ran a few quotes for a healthy Maltese at a $500 deductible and 70% coverage to estimate your monthly premium. Based on our research, you can expect to pay between $11 and $25 monthly. We love that Lemonade is tech-forward, making it easy to manage your policy and file claims through an app. Their plans cover accidents and illnesses, including injuries, poisonings, broken bones, sprains, infections, general sicknesses, cancer, heart disease, hip dysplasia, hernias, skin conditions and more. They also offer several add-ons to help pet owners pay for exam fees, physical therapy, and preventive care.
2. Best Personalized Maltese Pet Insurance
Spot Insurance
Who It’s For: Spot Pet Insurance is ideal for Maltese dog owners who want the most flexibility when customizing their policy to fit their budget and coverage needs.
Deductible: $100, $250, $500, $750 or $1,000
Reimbursement rates: 70%, 80% or 90%
Annual payout limit: $2,500 to Unlimited
Why we recommended it: Spot Pet Insurance offers seven annual limit options, three reimbursement levels, and five annual deductibles. They offer the lowest deductible in the industry ($100), meaning that when your Maltese gets sick, you pay less upfront before your plan starts paying. With so many customization options, this company is our top pick for finding a plan to meet your specific financial needs and those of your pet. Spot’s policies also cover some items, such as exam fees and microchipping, that many other pet insurance providers don’t offer. They also have one of the cheapest plans for accident-only coverage, making it perfect for pet owners who only need minimal coverage. We ran a few quotes for a healthy Maltese at a $500 deductible and 70% coverage; based on our research, you can expect to pay between $35 and $53, but prices may vary depending on your location. Maltese age, and other factors. Spot covers you when your Maltese gets hurt unexpectedly, from tooth extractions and torn ligaments to surgery and hospitalizations.
3. Best No-Cap Payout Maltese Pet Insurance
Healthy Paws
Who It’s For: With no financial cap, it’s ideal for covering major medical or ongoing expenses such as chronic conditions. It’s also beneficial for high-risk breeds such as Maltese.
Deductible: $100, $250 or $500
Reimbursement rates: 70%, 80% or 90%
Annual payout limit: Unlimited
Why we recommended it: Healthy Paws offers the benefit of no cap payout, meaning there’s no maximum limit on the amount they will pay, which is particularly advantageous for severe conditions or chronic diseases that require ongoing, expensive treatments. With no financial cap, you can choose the best treatments for your pet. This can include access to advanced medical procedures, specialized surgeries, or cutting-edge treatments that might otherwise be prohibitively expensive. Additionally, Healthy Paws stands out for its quick claim processing, typically paying 99% of claims in two days, notably faster than many competitors. We ran a quote for a healthy Maltese at a $500 deductible with 70% coverage. Depending on your location, pet’s age, and other factors, you can expect to pay between $25 and $41. Healthy Paws insurance plans cover accidents and illnesses, cancer, emergency care, genetic conditions, alternative care, etc. They have competitive premium prices and fewer coverage exclusions.
Types of Pet Insurance Coverage For Maltese
There are two main types of pet insurance plans.
What Does Pet Insurance Not Cover?
When choosing pet insurance for your Maltese, reviewing and understanding your policy’s exclusions is important.
Exclusions vary based on the pet insurance company and the policy you choose. Be sure to review the list of exclusions before purchasing pet insurance to confirm that your Maltese is adequately covered by the plan you select and help prevent surprises in the future.
Pet Insurance For Maltese Puppies
Here are the top reasons you should consider Maltese puppy insurance.
Average Cost of Maltese Vet Bills
This is what you will pay out-of-pocket on average if you don’t have pet insurance or a wellness plan.
Average Cost of Typical Vet Procedures
| Typical Vet Procedure | Average Cost of Procedure |
|---|---|
| Puppy vaccinations | $75 - $100 |
| Flea & tick prevention | $40 - $200 |
| Heartworm prevention | $24 - $120 |
| Spay or neuter surgery | $200 - $800 |
| Annual exam | $240 - $600 |
| Teeth cleaning | $200 - $500 |
| Microchip | $40 |
Average Cost of Emergency Vet Procedures
| Typical Vet Procedure | Average Cost Of Procedure |
|---|---|
| General consultation/exam | $100 - $150 |
| General bloodwork | $80 - $200 |
| X-rays | $150 - $250 |
| Ultrasound | $300 - $600 |
| 1-2 day hospitalization | $600 - $1,700 |
| 3-5 days holspitalization | $1,500 - $3,500 |
| Wound treatment & repair | $800 - $1,500 |
| Emergency surgery | $800 - $2,500 |
| Oxygen therapy | 500 |
Sources: 5 & 6
Factors That Impact the Cost of Your Maltese Pet Insurance Policy
Deductibles, co-pays & coverage limits
The lower the amount you pay out of pocket for your pet’s care, the higher your insurance premium will be. For instance, selecting a deductible of $300 instead of $800 means you’ll get reimbursed quicker for your pet’s care, but it also leads to higher premium payments.
Breed
Certain breeds are prone to congenital health issues. For example, breeds such as Maltese often struggle with patellar luxation and liver shint. These breed tendencies could influence your pet insurance expenses.
Location
Local veterinary care expenses are taken into account by pet insurance companies when setting the price of your policy.
Pet’s Age
Older pets generally face more health problems, which results in higher insurance premiums because there is a higher risk for the insurance company.
Understand Insurance Policy Basics
How Does Maltese Pet Insurance Work?
Imagine your Maltese pet insurance policy has the following terms:
Now, let’s say your Maltese incurs a veterinary bill of $3,000 for medical treatment.
This example assumes you haven’t yet met your deductible for the year. If you’ve already met your annual deductible, you won’t have to pay again for this or any new claims within the same policy year. Since every claim you make contributes to your annual payout limit after the insurance company pays $2,475 for it, the remaining yearly payout limit is $15,000 – $2,475 = $12,525.
Frequently Asked Question
The Bottom Line
Finally, whether or not to get pet insurance for your Maltese is a personal choice ultimately determined by your circumstances and priorities. Pet insurance, on the other hand, can provide peace of mind in the event of unexpected medical expenses and allow you to provide the best possible care for your furry companion.
To determine which policy is best for your Maltese, thoroughly research different insurance options and compare coverage, pricing, and customer reviews. With the right insurance, you can ensure that your Maltese receives the necessary care, no matter what life throws at them.
Like It? Subscribe & Share!
Sources
Canine Bible uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process and product review methodology to learn more about how we fact-check, test products, and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
- Breiner, B. (2023). Average Cost of Pet Insurance: 2023 Quotes. ValuePenguin.
- Gillespie, L. (2023, February 23). Bankrate’s Annual Emergency Fund Report. Bankrate.
- Healthy Paws Pet Insurance. (2019). 2019 Cost of Pet Health Care Report.
- Phenotypic characterization of paroxysmal dyskinesia in Maltese dogs. ResearchGate
- Average Cost Of Emergency Vet Visits | Find Out What You Will Pay. (2020, March 19). Emergency Vets USA.
- Cost of Owning a Dog: From Initial Cost to Annual Essentials. (n.d.). The Dog People.
Canine Bible authorship represents the unified voice of our entire editorial team and our in-house veterinarians rather than a single author. Each article, blog post, and review published under the Canine Bible name undergoes a rigorous review process, involving all team members to guarantee accuracy and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research. This collaborative effort is an integral part of our editorial process and aligns with our four pillars of content creation. This approach ensures our content is backed by expert knowledge and factual information, offering our readers reliable, actionable, and trustworthy content.
![Best Dog Beds For Bulldogs: For Optimal Sleep & Wellness [Top Picks]](https://www.caninebible.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/best-bulldog-beds-768x512.png)
![Best Dog Food For Bernedoodles — Top Picks By Experts [Reviews]](https://www.caninebible.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Best-dog-food-for-Bernedoodles-1-768x512.png)
