Admiral

Is Admiral Pet Insurance Worth It? Our Review 2025

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Admiral

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Our Expert's Opinion on Admiral

Last update: 21 June 2025

4.5

Score

4.5

Score

Charlotte Green

Finance content specialist

Admiral will appeal most to pet owners seeking tailored, high-ceiling lifetime protection—ideal for pedigree breeds with chronic/recurring risks, multi-pet households, those valuing strong digital services, or owners looking for comprehensive extras like dental illness or behavioural therapy (Platinum only). Families on a budget can access solid core protection through lower-tier formulas, but ageing pets and those with pre-existing conditions may find exclusions restrictive.

Admiral Insurance, part of the Admiral Group plc, is financially robust (ca. £4+bn premiums written Group-wide annually), serving over 127,000 Trustpilot reviewers with an excellent 4.5/5 average rating and highly praised customer service. Claims are managed via an efficient, largely digitalised process, typically settled in 10–30 working days, reflecting solid operational reliability within the UK landscape.

Pros

✅Lifetime and Time Limited policies, 7 formulas for all budgets
✅Vet fee cover up to £10,000/year (Platinum)
✅Generous multi-pet and existing customer discounts (up to 23.5%)
✅Gold and Platinum tiers Defaqto five-star rated
✅Fixed or flexible excess for claims control
✅24/7 digital vet access (PawSquad) included
✅Outstanding Trustpilot rating (4.5/5, 127,000+ reviews)

Cons

❌No cover for pre-existing or pre-policy health conditions
❌Illness cover stops at age 6 for death benefit
❌Dental and behavioural only with Platinum
❌Older pets face higher excess, sometimes co-pay
❌No long-term chronic care with Time Limited formulas

4.5

Score

4.5

Score

✅Lifetime and Time Limited policies, 7 formulas for all budgets
✅Vet fee cover up to £10,000/year (Platinum)
✅Generous multi-pet and existing customer discounts (up to 23.5%)
✅Gold and Platinum tiers Defaqto five-star rated
✅Fixed or flexible excess for claims control
✅24/7 digital vet access (PawSquad) included
✅Outstanding Trustpilot rating (4.5/5, 127,000+ reviews)

Our Expert's Opinion on Admiral

Last update: 21 June 2025

Charlotte Green

Finance content specialist

Pros

✅Lifetime and Time Limited policies, 7 formulas for all budgets
✅Vet fee cover up to £10,000/year (Platinum)
✅Generous multi-pet and existing customer discounts (up to 23.5%)
✅Gold and Platinum tiers Defaqto five-star rated
✅Fixed or flexible excess for claims control
✅24/7 digital vet access (PawSquad) included
✅Outstanding Trustpilot rating (4.5/5, 127,000+ reviews)

Cons

❌No cover for pre-existing or pre-policy health conditions
❌Illness cover stops at age 6 for death benefit
❌Dental and behavioural only with Platinum
❌Older pets face higher excess, sometimes co-pay
❌No long-term chronic care with Time Limited formulas

4.5

Score

4.5

Score

✅Lifetime and Time Limited policies, 7 formulas for all budgets
✅Vet fee cover up to £10,000/year (Platinum)
✅Generous multi-pet and existing customer discounts (up to 23.5%)
✅Gold and Platinum tiers Defaqto five-star rated
✅Fixed or flexible excess for claims control
✅24/7 digital vet access (PawSquad) included
✅Outstanding Trustpilot rating (4.5/5, 127,000+ reviews)

Admiral stands as a prominent choice in the UK pet insurance market, offering a wide range of formulas across both Lifetime and Time Limited options, with annual vet fee limits up to £10,000 and customisable excesses (£99 or £199). Its formulas cover most standard needs from £2,000 up to £10,000, with Gold and Platinum tiers Defaqto five-star rated, featuring robust third-party liability (up to £2m for dogs), worldwide emergency cover (up to 30 days), and unique extras like 24/7 video vet advice via PawSquad. Compared to key competitors, Admiral combines flexibility of cover levels with consistently competitive premium positioning, especially when factoring its generous multi-pet (15%) and existing customer (10%) discounts. Admiral will appeal most to pet owners seeking tailored, high-ceiling lifetime protection—ideal for pedigree breeds with chronic/recurring risks, multi-pet households, those valuing strong digital services, or owners looking for comprehensive extras like dental illness or behavioural therapy (Platinum only). Families on a budget can access solid core protection through lower-tier formulas, but ageing pets and those with pre-existing conditions may find exclusions restrictive. Admiral Insurance, part of the Admiral Group plc, is financially robust (ca. £4+bn premiums written Group-wide annually), serving over 127,000 Trustpilot reviewers with an excellent 4.5/5 average rating and highly praised customer service. Claims are managed via an efficient, largely digitalised process, typically settled in 10–30 working days, reflecting solid operational reliability within the UK landscape.

Why trust HelloSafe?

At HelloSafe, our pet insurance expert reviews the policy terms and pricing of the UK’s leading providers every year to bring you a reliable and impartial analysis. Thanks to this commitment, hundreds of thousands of users across the UK trust us each month to help guide their most important financial decisions.

Admiral Warranties

Admiral offers both Lifetime and Time Limited pet insurance, with five Lifetime tiers (Blue to Platinum, up to £10,000/year) and two Time Limited options (Essential, Extra, up to £4,000/condition/12 months). All formulas include wide accident and illness coverage, third-party liability for dogs, access to 24/7 online vet advice (PawSquad), and generous sub-limits for complementary treatment and boarding.

Distinctively, the Platinum Lifetime plan stands out with rare inclusions—dental illness, behavioural treatment, and accidental damage cover—though prevention, routine care, and hereditary conditions remain excluded. Admiral’s main shortcomings are the absence of any routine or preventive care reimbursement and that most covers for death by illness end at the pet’s sixth birthday.

Competitive multi-pet and existing customer discounts, plus clear claim excess options, help position Admiral as robust value, despite these exclusions.

Comparison of Admiral pet insurance cover levels and benefits.
Name of Cover/Feature	Lifetime Blue	Lifetime Bronze	Lifetime Silver	Lifetime Gold	Lifetime Platinum	Time Limited Essential	Time Limited Extra
Positioning	Entry-level Lifetime	Budget Lifetime	Mid-range Lifetime	Premium Lifetime	Top Lifetime	Entry-level Time Limited	Enhanced Time Limited
Type of cover	Accident & illness	Accident & illness	Accident & illness	Accident & illness	Accident & illness	Accident & illness	Accident & illness
Animals covered	Cats & dogs	Cats & dogs	Cats & dogs	Cats & dogs	Cats & dogs	Cats & dogs	Cats & dogs
Reimbursement rate	Up to limit/claim	Up to limit/claim	Up to limit/claim	Up to limit/claim	Up to limit/claim	Up to limit/claim	Up to limit/claim
Annual vet fee limit	£2,000	£3,000	£4,000	£5,000	£10,000	N/A	N/A
Per-condition vet fee limit	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	£2,000 (12mo)	£4,000 (12mo)
Annual excess (pet	£99 or £199, yearly	£99 or £199, yearly	£99 or £199, yearly	£99 or £199, yearly	£99 or £199, yearly	£99 or £199, per cond.	£99 or £199, per cond.
Annual excess (pet 6y+)	£199, yearly	£199, yearly	£199, yearly	£199, yearly	£199, yearly	£199, per cond.	£199, per cond.
Age for subscription - cats	≥8 weeks, no max	≥8 weeks, no max	≥8 weeks, no max	≥8 weeks, no max	≥8 weeks, no max	≥8 weeks, no max	≥8 weeks, no max
Age for subscription - dogs	≥8 weeks, no max	≥8 weeks, no max	≥8 weeks, no max	≥8 weeks, no max	≥8 weeks, no max	≥8 weeks, no max	≥8 weeks, no max
Pre-insurance health questionnaire	NC	NC	NC	NC	NC	NC	NC
Waiting period - illness	14 days	14 days	14 days	14 days	14 days	14 days	14 days
Waiting period - accident	24 hours	24 hours	24 hours	24 hours	24 hours	24 hours	24 hours
Lifetime renewal guaranteed	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅	❌	❌
Vet consults (all types)	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅
Medicines	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅
Hospitalisation	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅
Ambulance costs	NC	NC	NC	NC	NC	NC	NC
Surgery & anaesthesia	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅
Imaging (scans, MRI etc.)	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅
Laboratory tests	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅
Radiotherapy	NC	NC	NC	NC	NC	NC	NC
Dental (accident)	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅
Dental (illness)	❌	❌	❌	❌	✅ (£2,000)	❌	❌
Scale & polish	❌	❌	❌	❌	❌	❌	❌
Prevention package	❌	❌	❌	❌	❌	❌	❌
Complementary therapies	£500 cap	£500 cap	£500 cap	£500 cap	£500 cap	£500 cap	£500 cap
Special diet (prescription, stones)	£100	£100	£150	£150	£200	£100	£100
Alternative therapies	Included in £500 cap	Included in £500 cap	Included in £500 cap	Included in £500 cap	Included in £500 cap	Included in £500 cap	Included in £500 cap
Therapeutic food (other)	❌	❌	❌	❌	❌	❌	❌
Coverage abroad	Up to 30 days/yr	Up to 30 days/yr	Up to 30 days/yr	Up to 30 days/yr	Up to 30 days/yr	Up to 30 days/yr	Up to 30 days/yr
Death (accident)	£1,500	£1,500	£2,000	£2,000	£3,000	£1,000	£1,500
Death (illness	£1,500	£1,500	£2,000	£2,000	£3,000	£1,000	£1,500
Euthanasia/cremation/farewell	£100	£100	£150	£150	£200	£100	£150
Theft/loss/straying	£1,500	£1,500	£2,000	£2,000	£3,000	£1,000	£1,500
Pet recovery/advertising/reward	£250	£250	£250	£250	£500	£250	£250
Third party liability (dogs only)	£1m	£1m	£1m	£2m	£2m	£1m	£1m
Third party accidental damage	❌	❌	❌	❌	£1,000 (£250 excess)	❌	❌
Boarding fees (owner hospitalised)	£750	£750	£750	£750	£1,500	£750	£750
Behavioural treatment	❌	❌	❌	❌	£2,000	❌	❌
Pet sitting during owner illness	Included in boarding	Included in boarding	Included in boarding	Included in boarding	Included in boarding	Included in boarding	Included in boarding

Positioning

Lifetime Blue

Entry-level Lifetime

Lifetime Bronze

Budget Lifetime

Lifetime Silver

Mid-range Lifetime

Lifetime Gold

Premium Lifetime

Lifetime Platinum

Top Lifetime

Time Limited Essential

Entry-level Time Limited

Time Limited Extra

Enhanced Time Limited

Type of cover

Lifetime Blue

Accident & illness

Lifetime Bronze

Accident & illness

Lifetime Silver

Accident & illness

Lifetime Gold

Accident & illness

Lifetime Platinum

Accident & illness

Time Limited Essential

Accident & illness

Time Limited Extra

Accident & illness

Animals covered

Lifetime Blue

Cats & dogs

Lifetime Bronze

Cats & dogs

Lifetime Silver

Cats & dogs

Lifetime Gold

Cats & dogs

Lifetime Platinum

Cats & dogs

Time Limited Essential

Cats & dogs

Time Limited Extra

Cats & dogs

Reimbursement rate

Lifetime Blue

Up to limit/claim

Lifetime Bronze

Up to limit/claim

Lifetime Silver

Up to limit/claim

Lifetime Gold

Up to limit/claim

Lifetime Platinum

Up to limit/claim

Time Limited Essential

Up to limit/claim

Time Limited Extra

Up to limit/claim

Annual vet fee limit

Lifetime Blue

£2,000

Lifetime Bronze

£3,000

Lifetime Silver

£4,000

Lifetime Gold

£5,000

Lifetime Platinum

£10,000

Time Limited Essential

N/A

Time Limited Extra

N/A

Per-condition vet fee limit

Lifetime Blue

N/A

Lifetime Bronze

N/A

Lifetime Silver

N/A

Lifetime Gold

N/A

Lifetime Platinum

N/A

Time Limited Essential

£2,000 (12mo)

Time Limited Extra

£4,000 (12mo)

Annual excess (pet

Lifetime Blue

£99 or £199, yearly

Lifetime Bronze

£99 or £199, yearly

Lifetime Silver

£99 or £199, yearly

Lifetime Gold

£99 or £199, yearly

Lifetime Platinum

£99 or £199, yearly

Time Limited Essential

£99 or £199, per cond.

Time Limited Extra

£99 or £199, per cond.

Annual excess (pet 6y+)

Lifetime Blue

£199, yearly

Lifetime Bronze

£199, yearly

Lifetime Silver

£199, yearly

Lifetime Gold

£199, yearly

Lifetime Platinum

£199, yearly

Time Limited Essential

£199, per cond.

Time Limited Extra

£199, per cond.

Age for subscription - cats

Lifetime Blue

≥8 weeks, no max

Lifetime Bronze

≥8 weeks, no max

Lifetime Silver

≥8 weeks, no max

Lifetime Gold

≥8 weeks, no max

Lifetime Platinum

≥8 weeks, no max

Time Limited Essential

≥8 weeks, no max

Time Limited Extra

≥8 weeks, no max

Age for subscription - dogs

Lifetime Blue

≥8 weeks, no max

Lifetime Bronze

≥8 weeks, no max

Lifetime Silver

≥8 weeks, no max

Lifetime Gold

≥8 weeks, no max

Lifetime Platinum

≥8 weeks, no max

Time Limited Essential

≥8 weeks, no max

Time Limited Extra

≥8 weeks, no max

Pre-insurance health questionnaire

Lifetime Blue

Lifetime Bronze

Lifetime Silver

Lifetime Gold

Lifetime Platinum

Time Limited Essential

Time Limited Extra

Waiting period - illness

Lifetime Blue

14 days

Lifetime Bronze

14 days

Lifetime Silver

14 days

Lifetime Gold

14 days

Lifetime Platinum

14 days

Time Limited Essential

14 days

Time Limited Extra

14 days

Waiting period - accident

Lifetime Blue

24 hours

Lifetime Bronze

24 hours

Lifetime Silver

24 hours

Lifetime Gold

24 hours

Lifetime Platinum

24 hours

Time Limited Essential

24 hours

Time Limited Extra

24 hours

Lifetime renewal guaranteed

Lifetime Blue

✅

Lifetime Bronze

✅

Lifetime Silver

✅

Lifetime Gold

✅

Lifetime Platinum

✅

Time Limited Essential

❌

Time Limited Extra

❌

Vet consults (all types)

Lifetime Blue

✅

Lifetime Bronze

✅

Lifetime Silver

✅

Lifetime Gold

✅

Lifetime Platinum

✅

Time Limited Essential

✅

Time Limited Extra

✅

Medicines

Lifetime Blue

✅

Lifetime Bronze

✅

Lifetime Silver

✅

Lifetime Gold

✅

Lifetime Platinum

✅

Time Limited Essential

✅

Time Limited Extra

✅

Hospitalisation

Lifetime Blue

✅

Lifetime Bronze

✅

Lifetime Silver

✅

Lifetime Gold

✅

Lifetime Platinum

✅

Time Limited Essential

✅

Time Limited Extra

✅

Ambulance costs

Lifetime Blue

Lifetime Bronze

Lifetime Silver

Lifetime Gold

Lifetime Platinum

Time Limited Essential

Time Limited Extra

Surgery & anaesthesia

Lifetime Blue

✅

Lifetime Bronze

✅

Lifetime Silver

✅

Lifetime Gold

✅

Lifetime Platinum

✅

Time Limited Essential

✅

Time Limited Extra

✅

Imaging (scans, MRI etc.)

Lifetime Blue

✅

Lifetime Bronze

✅

Lifetime Silver

✅

Lifetime Gold

✅

Lifetime Platinum

✅

Time Limited Essential

✅

Time Limited Extra

✅

Laboratory tests

Lifetime Blue

✅

Lifetime Bronze

✅

Lifetime Silver

✅

Lifetime Gold

✅

Lifetime Platinum

✅

Time Limited Essential

✅

Time Limited Extra

✅

Radiotherapy

Lifetime Blue

Lifetime Bronze

Lifetime Silver

Lifetime Gold

Lifetime Platinum

Time Limited Essential

Time Limited Extra

Dental (accident)

Lifetime Blue

✅

Lifetime Bronze

✅

Lifetime Silver

✅

Lifetime Gold

✅

Lifetime Platinum

✅

Time Limited Essential

✅

Time Limited Extra

✅

Dental (illness)

Lifetime Blue

❌

Lifetime Bronze

❌

Lifetime Silver

❌

Lifetime Gold

❌

Lifetime Platinum

✅ (£2,000)

Time Limited Essential

❌

Time Limited Extra

❌

Scale & polish

Lifetime Blue

❌

Lifetime Bronze

❌

Lifetime Silver

❌

Lifetime Gold

❌

Lifetime Platinum

❌

Time Limited Essential

❌

Time Limited Extra

❌

Prevention package

Lifetime Blue

❌

Lifetime Bronze

❌

Lifetime Silver

❌

Lifetime Gold

❌

Lifetime Platinum

❌

Time Limited Essential

❌

Time Limited Extra

❌

Complementary therapies

Lifetime Blue

£500 cap

Lifetime Bronze

£500 cap

Lifetime Silver

£500 cap

Lifetime Gold

£500 cap

Lifetime Platinum

£500 cap

Time Limited Essential

£500 cap

Time Limited Extra

£500 cap

Special diet (prescription, stones)

Lifetime Blue

£100

Lifetime Bronze

£100

Lifetime Silver

£150

Lifetime Gold

£150

Lifetime Platinum

£200

Time Limited Essential

£100

Time Limited Extra

£100

Alternative therapies

Lifetime Blue

Included in £500 cap

Lifetime Bronze

Included in £500 cap

Lifetime Silver

Included in £500 cap

Lifetime Gold

Included in £500 cap

Lifetime Platinum

Included in £500 cap

Time Limited Essential

Included in £500 cap

Time Limited Extra

Included in £500 cap

Therapeutic food (other)

Lifetime Blue

❌

Lifetime Bronze

❌

Lifetime Silver

❌

Lifetime Gold

❌

Lifetime Platinum

❌

Time Limited Essential

❌

Time Limited Extra

❌

Coverage abroad

Lifetime Blue

Up to 30 days/yr

Lifetime Bronze

Up to 30 days/yr

Lifetime Silver

Up to 30 days/yr

Lifetime Gold

Up to 30 days/yr

Lifetime Platinum

Up to 30 days/yr

Time Limited Essential

Up to 30 days/yr

Time Limited Extra

Up to 30 days/yr

Death (accident)

Lifetime Blue

£1,500

Lifetime Bronze

£1,500

Lifetime Silver

£2,000

Lifetime Gold

£2,000

Lifetime Platinum

£3,000

Time Limited Essential

£1,000

Time Limited Extra

£1,500

Death (illness

Lifetime Blue

£1,500

Lifetime Bronze

£1,500

Lifetime Silver

£2,000

Lifetime Gold

£2,000

Lifetime Platinum

£3,000

Time Limited Essential

£1,000

Time Limited Extra

£1,500

Euthanasia/cremation/farewell

Lifetime Blue

£100

Lifetime Bronze

£100

Lifetime Silver

£150

Lifetime Gold

£150

Lifetime Platinum

£200

Time Limited Essential

£100

Time Limited Extra

£150

Theft/loss/straying

Lifetime Blue

£1,500

Lifetime Bronze

£1,500

Lifetime Silver

£2,000

Lifetime Gold

£2,000

Lifetime Platinum

£3,000

Time Limited Essential

£1,000

Time Limited Extra

£1,500

Pet recovery/advertising/reward

Lifetime Blue

£250

Lifetime Bronze

£250

Lifetime Silver

£250

Lifetime Gold

£250

Lifetime Platinum

£500

Time Limited Essential

£250

Time Limited Extra

£250

Third party liability (dogs only)

Lifetime Blue

£1m

Lifetime Bronze

£1m

Lifetime Silver

£1m

Lifetime Gold

£2m

Lifetime Platinum

£2m

Time Limited Essential

£1m

Time Limited Extra

£1m

Third party accidental damage

Lifetime Blue

❌

Lifetime Bronze

❌

Lifetime Silver

❌

Lifetime Gold

❌

Lifetime Platinum

£1,000 (£250 excess)

Time Limited Essential

❌

Time Limited Extra

❌

Boarding fees (owner hospitalised)

Lifetime Blue

£750

Lifetime Bronze

£750

Lifetime Silver

£750

Lifetime Gold

£750

Lifetime Platinum

£1,500

Time Limited Essential

£750

Time Limited Extra

£750

Behavioural treatment

Lifetime Blue

❌

Lifetime Bronze

❌

Lifetime Silver

❌

Lifetime Gold

❌

Lifetime Platinum

£2,000

Time Limited Essential

❌

Time Limited Extra

❌

Pet sitting during owner illness

Lifetime Blue

Included in boarding

Lifetime Bronze

Included in boarding

Lifetime Silver

Included in boarding

Lifetime Gold

Included in boarding

Lifetime Platinum

Included in boarding

Time Limited Essential

Included in boarding

Time Limited Extra

Included in boarding

Comparison of Admiral pet insurance cover levels and benefits.

Good to know

No cover for pre-existing conditions, prevention costs (vaccines, flea/worm, neutering), or pets under 8 weeks.
Death by illness cover is only valid up to the animal's sixth birthday.
Routine dental care, hereditary/congenital diseases, and any treatment within carence period (14 days illness/24h accident) are excluded.
There is no upper age limit to join, but excess increases at age 6.
Claims must be notified within 180 days; proof of purchase required for death benefit above £250.

Compare Admiral’s plans carefully to secure the most fitting and cost-effective cover for your pet’s profile.

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Admiral exclusions

Admiral’s policy displays several exclusions typical to UK pet insurance, such as all pre-existing conditions, claims within waiting periods (24h for accidents, 14 days for illnesses), and routine/preventive care (vaccinations, flea control, neutering, etc.), but also features a few key differences versus other major players. Notably, cover for death by illness ends on the pet’s 6th birthday—significantly stricter than most direct competitors, which often provide this benefit up to 8 or even 10 years for dogs and cats. Behavioural and dental illness treatments are only covered at the highest (Platinum) level and are strictly excluded for all other tiers, even as ongoing/chronic issues.

Breeding and pregnancy are always excluded, as are all claims relating to banned breeds and pets used for commercial or security work.

Additionally, claims for a pet not explicitly listed on the policy schedule, or any pet under 8 weeks, are excluded—and there are also clear limitations for overseas claims (30 days max per policy year in eligible countries).

Table of typical and specific exclusions in Admiral’s pet insurance policy
Exclusions	Details
Medical Exclusions	Pre-existing conditions or symptoms before policy start/waiting period Illness within first 14 days, accident within first 24h Routine/preventive care (vaccinations, flea/worm, neutering, grooming, etc.) Dental treatment for illness (except Platinum tier) Behavioural treatment (except Platinum tier) Prosthetics (except joint replacements) Death by illness after pet’s 6th birthday Euthanasia/cremation outside 'Farewell Cover' limits Claims for pets under 8 weeks
Identification & Pet Status Exclusions	Any claim for a pet not explicitly named in policy schedule Dogs with a record of aggression or subject to restrictions Working, security, or commercial breeding pets Banned breeds (e.g., XL Bully, Pit Bull types) Pets used for commercial activities
Breeding & Reproduction	Pregnancy and birth-related costs Breeding (planned or accidental), artificial insemination
Geographical/Travel	Non-UK claims except select EU/EEA countries (max 30 days/year) Claims not compliant with animal travel laws/legislation Costs incurred beyond permitted travel limits
Legislative/Legal	Claims arising from Animals Act, Dangerous Dogs Act, notifiable diseases Any act of war, civil unrest, terrorism, nuclear risks, or currency fluctuation losses
Administrative/Procedural	Claims notified after 180 days Missing or insufficient veterinary evidence Failure to keep pet's vaccinations and routine health care up to date
Other Special Caps and Exclusions	Death by illness cover capped by age (ends at 6th birthday) Farewell (euthanasia/cremation/casket) only within product limits Advertising/straying/reward limited both in type and recipient

Medical Exclusions

Details

Pre-existing conditions or symptoms before policy start/waiting period
Illness within first 14 days, accident within first 24h
Routine/preventive care (vaccinations, flea/worm, neutering, grooming, etc.)
Dental treatment for illness (except Platinum tier)
Behavioural treatment (except Platinum tier)
Prosthetics (except joint replacements)
Death by illness after pet’s 6th birthday
Euthanasia/cremation outside 'Farewell Cover' limits
Claims for pets under 8 weeks

Identification & Pet Status Exclusions

Details

Any claim for a pet not explicitly named in policy schedule
Dogs with a record of aggression or subject to restrictions
Working, security, or commercial breeding pets
Banned breeds (e.g., XL Bully, Pit Bull types)
Pets used for commercial activities

Breeding & Reproduction

Details

Pregnancy and birth-related costs
Breeding (planned or accidental), artificial insemination

Geographical/Travel

Details

Non-UK claims except select EU/EEA countries (max 30 days/year)
Claims not compliant with animal travel laws/legislation
Costs incurred beyond permitted travel limits

Legislative/Legal

Details

Claims arising from Animals Act, Dangerous Dogs Act, notifiable diseases
Any act of war, civil unrest, terrorism, nuclear risks, or currency fluctuation losses

Administrative/Procedural

Details

Claims notified after 180 days
Missing or insufficient veterinary evidence
Failure to keep pet's vaccinations and routine health care up to date

Other Special Caps and Exclusions

Details

Death by illness cover capped by age (ends at 6th birthday)
Farewell (euthanasia/cremation/casket) only within product limits
Advertising/straying/reward limited both in type and recipient

Table of typical and specific exclusions in Admiral’s pet insurance policy

Admiral rates

Admiral positions itself in the UK pet insurance market as a competitive and flexible provider, offering a broad range of coverage levels through both Lifetime and Time Limited policies. Premiums are generally positioned slightly below or in line with the market average for mid-level cover, with Platinum Lifetime options offering more comprehensive benefits (including dental illness and behavioural treatment) closer in cost to premium competitors.

Admiral’s digital-forward approach, streamlined via direct online sales and claims management, allows for reduced operational costs—these savings are reflected in pricing, especially for entry and mid-tier formulas. Core features such as 24/7 online vet access (PawSquad), multi-pet discounts, and solid claims support reinforce Admiral’s value proposition, particularly for digitally confident owners.

While high-value tiers are robust, the strictness on exclusions (notably for chronic illness in Time Limited, and dental/behavioural in all but Platinum) means budget formulas can be limited compared to providers with broader base covers.

Overall, Admiral is best described as occupying a strong median-to-competitive position: economical for essential cover, mainstream for most needs, and only at the higher end if seeking maximum reimbursement and additional benefits.

Sample monthly premiums for Admiral pet insurance by policy type and pet profile (2024).
	Lifetime Blue	Lifetime Bronze	Lifetime Silver	Lifetime Gold	Lifetime Platinum	Time Limited Essential	Time Limited Extra
Cat young (2–4 years)	£7/mo	£10/mo	£13/mo	£16/mo	£25/mo	£6/mo	£8/mo
Cat senior (7–8 years)	£12/mo	£15/mo	£18/mo	£22/mo	£33/mo	£10/mo	£13/mo
Small dog (e.g. Border Terrier)	£10/mo	£13/mo	£16/mo	£21/mo	£32/mo	£8/mo	£11/mo
Small dog (2–4 years)	£10/mo	£13/mo	£16/mo	£21/mo	£32/mo	£8/mo	£11/mo
Large dog (e.g. Labrador) (2–4 years)	£14/mo	£18/mo	£22/mo	£29/mo	£44/mo	£12/mo	£16/mo
Dog senior (7–8 years)	£22/mo	£27/mo	£33/mo	£42/mo	£62/mo	£18/mo	£23/mo

Cat young (2–4 years)

Lifetime Blue

£7/mo

Lifetime Bronze

£10/mo

Lifetime Silver

£13/mo

Lifetime Gold

£16/mo

Lifetime Platinum

£25/mo

Time Limited Essential

£6/mo

Time Limited Extra

£8/mo

Cat senior (7–8 years)

Lifetime Blue

£12/mo

Lifetime Bronze

£15/mo

Lifetime Silver

£18/mo

Lifetime Gold

£22/mo

Lifetime Platinum

£33/mo

Time Limited Essential

£10/mo

Time Limited Extra

£13/mo

Small dog (e.g. Border Terrier)

Lifetime Blue

£10/mo

Lifetime Bronze

£13/mo

Lifetime Silver

£16/mo

Lifetime Gold

£21/mo

Lifetime Platinum

£32/mo

Time Limited Essential

£8/mo

Time Limited Extra

£11/mo

Small dog (2–4 years)

Lifetime Blue

£10/mo

Lifetime Bronze

£13/mo

Lifetime Silver

£16/mo

Lifetime Gold

£21/mo

Lifetime Platinum

£32/mo

Time Limited Essential

£8/mo

Time Limited Extra

£11/mo

Large dog (e.g. Labrador) (2–4 years)

Lifetime Blue

£14/mo

Lifetime Bronze

£18/mo

Lifetime Silver

£22/mo

Lifetime Gold

£29/mo

Lifetime Platinum

£44/mo

Time Limited Essential

£12/mo

Time Limited Extra

£16/mo

Dog senior (7–8 years)

Lifetime Blue

£22/mo

Lifetime Bronze

£27/mo

Lifetime Silver

£33/mo

Lifetime Gold

£42/mo

Lifetime Platinum

£62/mo

Time Limited Essential

£18/mo

Time Limited Extra

£23/mo

Sample monthly premiums for Admiral pet insurance by policy type and pet profile (2024).

Take the time to compare providers to ensure you get the widest cover at the lowest price tailored to your pet’s needs.

👉 Compare pet insurance plans for freeStart saving on vet bills

Admiral promo codes

Admiral promo codes and discounts
Admiral promo codes	Details
Multi-pet discount	15% off per pet when insuring multiple pets
Existing customer	10% off for Admiral home/car/other insurance holders
Combined discounts	Up to 23.5% off when combining multi-pet and existing customer discounts
Code promo HelloSafe	-5% on your quote

Multi-pet discount

Details

15% off per pet when insuring multiple pets

Existing customer

Details

10% off for Admiral home/car/other insurance holders

Combined discounts

Details

Up to 23.5% off when combining multi-pet and existing customer discounts

Code promo HelloSafe

Details

-5% on your quote

Admiral promo codes and discounts

How much will I be reimbursed with Admiral?

When your pet needs veterinary care, Admiral's pet insurance helps cover the costs according to the level of cover you’ve chosen. With the Lifetime Platinum plan, you get the highest annual vet fee limit and the widest possible coverage—including dental illness and behavioural treatment. Below are some realistic examples illustrating how much you could be reimbursed, and how much you’d need to pay out of pocket, with Admiral’s top Lifetime Platinum cover.

Informations importantes

Example 1: Treatment for Gastric Upset in a Young Dog
Total vet costs: £420 (consultation, blood tests, IV fluids, medication)
Annual excess (under 6): £99 (this is the first claim of the policy year)
Amount reimbursable after excess: £420 – £99 = £321
With the Lifetime Platinum formula, you are reimbursed 100% of the eligible costs after the excess (up to £10,000 annual limit): £321
👉 You receive £321 back from Admiral. Your out-of-pocket cost: only £99.
ℹ️ The annual excess is paid once per condition per year. Future claims for the same condition in this year won’t have another excess deducted.

Informations importantes

Example 2: Dental Illness Treatment (Platinum Only Benefit)
Total vet costs: £850 (dental scaling and extraction under anaesthetic, pain relief, antibiotics)
Annual excess: £99 (for a 5-year-old dog or cat; £199 if age 6+)
Platinum-only dental illness cover limit: Up to £2,000 per year.
Amount reimbursable after excess: £850 – £99 = £751
👉 You receive £751 back from Admiral. Your out-of-pocket cost: only £99.
ℹ️ Dental illness is only covered within the Lifetime Platinum plan, up to £2,000 per year. For older pets (6+), the annual excess increases to £199.

Informations importantes

Example 3: Behavioural Treatment (Platinum Only Benefit)
Total behaviourist costs: £600 (vet referral + five sessions with a certified behaviourist for severe anxiety)
Annual excess: £99 (for pets under 6; £199 if 6+)
Platinum behavioural treatment limit: Up to £2,000 per year.
Amount reimbursable after excess: £600 – £99 = £501
👉 You receive £501 back from Admiral. Your out-of-pocket cost: only £99.
ℹ️ Behavioural treatment is only included with the Lifetime Platinum plan (up to £2,000/year), making it a unique and valuable benefit for tackling complex issues.

Admiral Assistance

Admiral provides 24/7 access to UK-registered vets via PawSquad, a valuable inclusion offering video, phone or text consultations, but does not offer an in-house emergency hotline for coordinating in-person care or claims in urgent situations.

Claims can be paid directly to the vet if the practice accepts, which simplifies the process for some owners, but Admiral does not offer a dedicated advance payment or pet health credit card system like those available with some UK competitors.

There is no mobile app for pet insurance—customers manage claims and policy administration by email, phone or web interface, a practical limitation given growing demand for digital claims tracking and document uploads.

While Admiral covers up to 30 days per year for travel to specified EU/EEA countries, cover abroad is more restrictive than some plans that allow longer trips or permanent international relocation.

There is no curated network of partner vets or clinics—which means freedom of provider, but also no negotiated rates or seamless in-network direct settlement.

Overview of Admiral assistance features for pet insurance.
Assistance Admiral	Available?	Details
Advance payment	❌	No veterinary pre-payment or health credit system (like PetCard or Carefree Credit) is offered.
Payment facilities	✅	Monthly premium payment by direct debit is available, with no additional fees for instalment payments.
Mobile app	❌	No Admiral app dedicated to pet insurance; claims and admin via website, phone, or email only.
Digital claims submission	✅	Forms and documents can be uploaded via customer web portal or emailed; no mobile upload, some processes done by form.
Emergency vet line/telemed	✅	24/7 access to UK-regulated PawSquad vets by video, phone or chat, but not an in-house claims emergency service.
Vet/clinic network	❌	No formal partner network; customers may use any qualified UK vet.
Overseas cover	✅	Up to 30 days per year in listed EU/EEA countries; no cover for long-term or permanent stays abroad.

Advance payment

Available?

❌

Details

No veterinary pre-payment or health credit system (like PetCard or Carefree Credit) is offered.

Payment facilities

Available?

✅

Details

Monthly premium payment by direct debit is available, with no additional fees for instalment payments.

Mobile app

Available?

❌

Details

No Admiral app dedicated to pet insurance; claims and admin via website, phone, or email only.

Digital claims submission

Available?

✅

Details

Forms and documents can be uploaded via customer web portal or emailed; no mobile upload, some processes done by form.

Emergency vet line/telemed

Available?

✅

Details

24/7 access to UK-regulated PawSquad vets by video, phone or chat, but not an in-house claims emergency service.

Vet/clinic network

Available?

❌

Details

No formal partner network; customers may use any qualified UK vet.

Overseas cover

Available?

✅

Details

Up to 30 days per year in listed EU/EEA countries; no cover for long-term or permanent stays abroad.

Overview of Admiral assistance features for pet insurance.

Customer feedback on Admiral

Admiral Insurance customer ratings on Trustpilot.
Review platform	Rating and number of reviews
Trustpilot	4.5 / 5 (127,237 reviews - all Admiral Insurance products, including pet)

Trustpilot

Rating and number of reviews

4.5 / 5 (127,237 reviews - all Admiral Insurance products, including pet)

Admiral Insurance customer ratings on Trustpilot.

We have analysed the reviews from the site above. On the positive side, owners who have taken out an Admiral policy for their pets often mention:

The competitive pricing and perceived good value for money: many customers highlight that policy costs are reasonable compared to the cover provided and discount options for multi-pet households or Admiral customers are appreciated.
The ease and clarity of the purchase process: the simple, user-friendly website and clear documentation make it straightforward to obtain a quote and understand cover levels.
The friendly and helpful customer service: insured pet owners report that Admiral’s phone and online teams are approachable and effective, with prompt responses and willingness to explain procedures or policy details.
The efficient claims handling: for most straightforward claims, customers describe the process as hassle-free, with direct payment to vets possible and regular updates provided.
The inclusion of 24/7 vet advice via PawSquad: access to professional veterinary help at any time is valued as reassuring and practical, especially outside normal vet hours.

On the negative side:

Price increases at renewal are a frequent frustration: customers report that premiums may rise significantly after the first year, sometimes without obvious reason, requiring negotiation or comparison shopping.
Occasional delays or complications in handling more complex queries: some users mention that multi-pet or multi-policy account management can involve technical glitches or slow response times, for instance with shared email addresses or policy amendments.
Limits and exclusions may lead to misunderstandings: a number of policyholders feel restricted by caps on dental, behavioural, or pre-existing conditions, and regret that certain treatments are only included in the highest cover tier.
Automated systems and online services: while many self-service tasks are easy, some customers would prefer less reliance on online forms or call menus, especially when resolving non-standard situations.
Complaints about customer service in specific situations: though generally strong, support can sometimes be less flexible or understanding during disputes about claims rejections, documentation requests, or policy interpretation.

How to contact Admiral?

Admiral customer service contact details and procedures
Service client Admiral	Details
To get a quote or subscribe online	You can use the HelloSafe best pet insurance comparison tool, choose the plan that suits you, and click to get a quote.
To request and track a reimbursement	Declare the claim as soon as possible (within 180 days), via: - Phone: 0333 777 7362 - Email: claims@admiralpetclaims.co.uk - You will need to fill out a claim form and provide supporting documents (detailed vet invoices, medical record, proof of payment, etc.). Payment can be made directly to the vet or to your bank account. Average observed processing time: within 10 to 15 business days after receipt of all documents.
To obtain an insurance certificate	Contact Admiral customer service: - Phone: 0333 777 7361 - Email: via the site's contact form or direct online request. Specify your policy number and contact details to get a certificate or duplicate by email or mail.
To contact assistance	For any question related to the contract or a claim: • Customer service: 0333 777 7361 • Email: claims@admiralpetclaims.co.uk For 24/7 veterinary assistance: Sign up to PawSquad (included with all plans) to contact a vet by chat, phone or video anytime.
To cancel my contract	Send your cancellation request to: - Phone: 0333 777 7361 - Email: via the website form or at customerassurance@admiral.com Provide your policy number, name, an explicit cancellation request and your contact details. - By mail: Admiral Pet Insurance, Ty Admiral, David Street, Cardiff, CF10 2EH, UK Notice period: • During the first 14 days: cancellation with full refund if no claim made. • After 14 days: pro rata refund if no claim has been made; no refund if a claim was filed. Remember to attach any relevant document to speed up processing (insurance certificate, bank details for refund, etc.).

To get a quote or subscribe online

Details

You can use the HelloSafe best pet insurance comparison tool, choose the plan that suits you, and click to get a quote.

To request and track a reimbursement

Details

Declare the claim as soon as possible (within 180 days), via:
- Phone: 0333 777 7362
- Email: claims@admiralpetclaims.co.uk
- You will need to fill out a claim form and provide supporting documents (detailed vet invoices, medical record, proof of payment, etc.). Payment can be made directly to the vet or to your bank account. Average observed processing time: within 10 to 15 business days after receipt of all documents.

To obtain an insurance certificate

Details

Contact Admiral customer service:
- Phone: 0333 777 7361
- Email: via the site's contact form or direct online request.
Specify your policy number and contact details to get a certificate or duplicate by email or mail.

To contact assistance

Details

For any question related to the contract or a claim:
• Customer service: 0333 777 7361
• Email: claims@admiralpetclaims.co.uk
For 24/7 veterinary assistance: Sign up to PawSquad (included with all plans) to contact a vet by chat, phone or video anytime.

To cancel my contract

Details

Send your cancellation request to:
- Phone: 0333 777 7361
- Email: via the website form or at customerassurance@admiral.com
Provide your policy number, name, an explicit cancellation request and your contact details.
- By mail: Admiral Pet Insurance, Ty Admiral, David Street, Cardiff, CF10 2EH, UK
Notice period:
• During the first 14 days: cancellation with full refund if no claim made.
• After 14 days: pro rata refund if no claim has been made; no refund if a claim was filed.
Remember to attach any relevant document to speed up processing (insurance certificate, bank details for refund, etc.).

Admiral customer service contact details and procedures

FAQ

Do I need to pay the vet upfront with Admiral?

Admiral does not guarantee a direct payment system (like Payvet or automatic “no upfront fees” arrangements) for all vets. Generally, you pay the vet yourself, then submit a claim to Admiral for reimbursement. However, in many cases, Admiral can pay the vet directly if your veterinary clinic agrees—make sure to discuss this with your vet and confirm when arranging treatment.

How do I cancel my Admiral pet insurance contract?

To cancel your Admiral pet insurance, contact customer services by phone or email. There is a 14-day cooling-off period for a full refund if no claim has been made. After this, cancellation is possible at any time, with a pro-rata refund if no claim has been made (minus time on cover). Provide your policy number and written confirmation; no special documents are usually needed beyond ID and policy details.

What types of pets and ages does Admiral cover?

Admiral covers cats and dogs from eight weeks old. There is no official maximum age to start cover, but some benefits, like “death by illness,” end when your pet reaches six years. Breeds banned under UK law and working or commercial breeding animals are not eligible.

Does Admiral pet insurance cover pre-existing conditions?

No, Admiral pet insurance does not cover pre-existing conditions—any illness or injury your pet had before your policy start date or during the waiting period is excluded from cover. Only new illnesses or accidents that develop after your policy starts are eligible for claims.

Does Admiral offer discounts for insuring multiple pets?

Yes, Admiral offers a 15% multi-pet discount per pet when you insure more than one animal on the same policy. If you’re already an Admiral customer, you can get an extra 10% discount—together, discounts can reach up to 23.5% off your total premium.

Do I need to pay the vet upfront with Admiral?

How do I cancel my Admiral pet insurance contract?

What types of pets and ages does Admiral cover?

Does Admiral pet insurance cover pre-existing conditions?

Does Admiral offer discounts for insuring multiple pets?

Charlotte Green

Finance content specialist

Charlotte is a finance content specialist with a sharp analytical mind and a strong academic background. She holds a degree in Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE) from the University of Oxford and a Master’s in Behavioural Economics from the London School of Economics. Her academic training gave her the tools to make sense of complex financial systems—and to explain them in a way that’s both smart and relatable. Before joining HelloSafe, Charlotte worked in editorial roles for financial media and strategy firms, where she focused on personal finance, digital banking, and policy analysis. She is passionate about helping people make informed decisions about their money, especially in an age where the financial landscape is changing fast. At HelloSafe, she covers key topics such as insurance, tax, utilities, credit and budgeting tools. Her mission: provide clear, honest and actionable insights that empower readers to take control of their financial lives with confidence.

Is Admiral Pet Insurance Worth It? Our Review 2025

Our Expert's Opinion on Admiral

Our Expert's Opinion on Admiral

Admiral Warranties

Admiral exclusions

Admiral rates

Admiral promo codes

How much will I be reimbursed with Admiral?

Admiral Assistance

Customer feedback on Admiral

How to contact Admiral?

FAQ

Do I need to pay the vet upfront with Admiral?

How do I cancel my Admiral pet insurance contract?

What types of pets and ages does Admiral cover?

Does Admiral pet insurance cover pre-existing conditions?

Does Admiral offer discounts for insuring multiple pets?

Do I need to pay the vet upfront with Admiral?

How do I cancel my Admiral pet insurance contract?

What types of pets and ages does Admiral cover?

Does Admiral pet insurance cover pre-existing conditions?

Does Admiral offer discounts for insuring multiple pets?

Ask a question, an expert will answer

FAQ

Do I need to pay the vet upfront with Admiral?

How do I cancel my Admiral pet insurance contract?

What types of pets and ages does Admiral cover?

Does Admiral pet insurance cover pre-existing conditions?

Does Admiral offer discounts for insuring multiple pets?

Do I need to pay the vet upfront with Admiral?

How do I cancel my Admiral pet insurance contract?

What types of pets and ages does Admiral cover?

Does Admiral pet insurance cover pre-existing conditions?

Does Admiral offer discounts for insuring multiple pets?

Admiral Warranties

Admiral exclusions

Admiral rates

Admiral promo codes

How much will I be reimbursed with Admiral?

Admiral Assistance

Customer feedback on Admiral

How to contact Admiral?