Is Scratch & Patch Pet Insurance Worth It? Our Review 2025
Our Expert’s Review of Scratch & Patch
Scratch & Patch stands out in the UK pet insurance market for its highly modular offering, with six distinct plans (Bronze to Premier Plus), each designed for different risk profiles and budgets. Annual veterinary fee limits range from accident-only Bronze covers up to comprehensive annual 'lifetime' policies on Premier Plus; reimbursement ceilings and excess levels are clearly stated per plan, with competitive pricing often cited as among the best versus major providers. Notably, Scratch & Patch includes solid veterinary, dental accident (not illness), liability (for dogs), hospitilisation and lost/ stolen pet cover, plus a 24/7 Vet Careline service. The policy excels for young or pedigree dogs and cats (from 5 weeks old), those with multi-pet households (10% discount), or owners seeking a simple, fast sign-up and value; it is especially suitable for owners wanting lifetime cover and strong clarity on exclusions. Scratch & Patch is underwritten by Stonebridge International Insurance Ltd, managed by sector specialists (URIS, Davies, ClaimSorted), and FCA-authorised, bringing reliability and FSCS protection (90% of compensation, no limits). Claims pay-outs benefit from rapid processing (94% acceptance rate in 2023, direct vet payments possible), while the Trustpilot reputation is praised for proactive resolution and clarity, though no explicit score is published. Most reimbursements are finalised efficiently, but drug refunds may be capped based on reference prices.
- Six plan options, accident-only to comprehensive lifetime
- Annual lifetime reinstatement for higher-tier policies
- Highly competitive tariffs versus market average
- 24/7 Vet Careline access included for all insureds
- Multi-pet 10% discount available
- Fast digital claims, direct vet settlement possible
- Strong FCA and FSCS-backed reliability
- Strict age limits for death and theft cover
- Dental illness not covered, accident only
- Programme-specific medication refund caps
- No pre-authorisation of treatments available
- Some negative feedback on rigid claims process
- Scratch & Patch Guarantees
- Exclusions from Scratch & Patch
- Scratch & Patch Rates
- Scratch & Patch Support
- Customer feedback on Scratch & Patch
- How can I contact Scratch & Patch?
- FAQ
Why trust HelloSafe?
At HelloSafe, our pet insurance expert reviews the general terms and conditions and pricing of market-leading insurance contracts every year to provide you with a reliable and impartial analysis. Thanks to this rigorous approach, hundreds of thousands of users across the UK trust us each month to support them in making their most important financial decisions.
Scratch & Patch Guarantees
Scratch & Patch offers six modular pet insurance plans (Bronze, Silver, Gold, Prime, Premier, Premier Plus) ranging from basic accident-only cover (Bronze) to comprehensive “lifetime” cover with an annual global cap (Prime+). Key strengths include a 94% claim acceptance rate in 2023, direct vet payments, and a 24/7 Vet Careline, with lifetime formulas reinstating limits per condition each renewal and a multi-pet discount. The Gold and higher plans stand out with no time limits per condition and “lifetime” annual reimbursement; all formulas apply a set annual or per-condition cap, and a variable excess is deducted from each claim, with details defined at policy issue. Notable exclusions persist: no routine/preventive treatment, illness/death cover for older pets (dogs over 8, cats over 10), euthanasia only covered on top tiers, and dental cover limited to accidents. Scratch & Patch excels in service flexibility but lacks a real prevention allowance and has capped reimbursement on medicines, which can create residual owner outlay.
| Name of cover | Bronze | Silver | Gold | Prime / Premier / Premier Plus |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Positioning of the formula | Entry-level, low-cost, accident only | Essential, “time-limited” accident & illness | Enhanced, “per condition” without time limit | Top “lifetime” with annual global limit |
| Type of cover | Accidents only | Accidents & illness, per condition 12 months max | Accidents & illness, per condition, no time limit | Accidents & illness, annual global cap |
| Covered animals | Cats and dogs, from 5 weeks | Cats and dogs, from 5 weeks | Cats and dogs, from 5 weeks | Cats and dogs, from 5 weeks |
| % of reimbursement | Up to 100%, after excess | Up to 100%, after excess | Up to 100%, after excess | Up to 100%, after excess |
| Annual vet fee cap | Fixed annual or 12-month/per-incident cap | Fixed per condition or 12 months cap | Fixed per condition, renewed yearly | Annual “all inclusive” cap (sum insured) |
| Excess (annual or per claim?) | Per claim, value set by plan/schedule | Per claim, value set by plan/schedule | Per claim, value set by plan/schedule | Per claim, value set by plan/schedule |
| Min & max age to join - cats | Min 5 weeks; Max NC | Min 5 weeks; Max NC | Min 5 weeks; Max NC | Min 5 weeks; Max NC |
| Min & max age to join - dogs | Min 5 weeks; Max NC | Min 5 weeks; Max NC | Min 5 weeks; Max NC | Min 5 weeks; Max NC |
| Pre-contract health questionnaire? | No (owner declaration) | No (owner declaration) | No (owner declaration) | No (owner declaration) |
| Waiting period for illness | 14 days (waived if continuous insured) | 14 days (waived if continuous insured) | 14 days (waived if continuous insured) | 14 days (waived if continuous insured) |
| Waiting period for accident | Immediate cover | Immediate cover | Immediate cover | Immediate cover |
| Lifetime cover once insured? | Yes if policy is renewed | Yes if policy is renewed | Yes if policy is renewed | Yes if policy is renewed |
| Vet consultations (routine, urgent) | Accident only, limits apply | Covered within fee cap, per condition | Covered within fee cap, per condition | Covered within global annual cap |
| Medication | Accident only, capped at drug manufacturer ref | Capped manufacture price + 100%, after excess | Capped manufacture price + 100%, after excess | Capped manufacture price + 100%, after excess |
| Hospitalisation | Only after accident | Covered if linked to insured event | Covered if linked to insured event | Covered if linked to insured event |
| Ambulance fees | Accident only, fee cap | Covered within cap | Covered within cap | Covered within global cap |
| Surgery, anaesthesia | Accident only, covered within cap | Covered within per condition cap | Covered within per condition cap | Covered within global cap |
| MRI, CT scans, ultrasound | Not covered | Covered within cap | Covered within cap | Covered within cap |
| Lab analysis | Accident only, within cap | Covered within cap | Covered within cap | Covered within global cap |
| Radiotherapy | Not covered | Covered within cap (if prescribed for insured event) | Covered within cap | Covered within global cap |
| Dental | Accident only | Accident & illness for dental injury/disease | Accident & illness for dental injury/disease | Accident & illness for dental injury/disease |
| Scaling (dental descaling) | Not covered | Not covered | Not covered | Not covered |
| Prevention package | Not covered | Not covered | Not covered | Not covered |
| Alternative therapies | Accident only (if vet prescribed) | Covered if prescribed/qualified vet | Covered if prescribed/qualified vet | Covered if prescribed/qualified vet |
| Dietetic food | Not covered | Only for urinary stone dissolution | Only for urinary stone dissolution | Only for urinary stone dissolution |
| Covered countries / travel | UK + EU for vet care | UK + EU for vet care | UK + EU for vet care | UK + EU for vet care |
| Death/cremation | Accidental death only, up to fixed % or max | Death from accident/illness, by age criteria | Death from accident/illness, by age criteria | Death from accident/illness, by age + euthanasia covered |
| Euthanasia | Not covered | Not covered | Not covered | Covered (humane grounds) |
| Theft or loss and search/reward fees | Yes, strict age limits; max and % by age | Yes, strict age limits; max and % by age | Yes, strict age limits; max and % by age | Yes, strict age limits; max and % by age |
| Boarding/care costs | Yes, if owner hospitalised min 5 days, capped | Yes, if owner hospitalised min 5 days, capped | Yes, if owner hospitalised min 5 days, capped | Yes, if owner hospitalised min 5 days, capped |
Good to know
- No routine/preventive care, hygiene, identification, or vaccination costs are refunded on any plan.
- Strict age limits for claiming death/loss benefits (dogs over 8, cats over 10 years not eligible).
- All claims subject to excess, and medication reimbursement is capped at manufacturer price +100%, which may result in partial expenses for owners.
- Dental cover excludes scaling, routine, and non-accident care.
- “Policy schedule” provides the exact cap, excess, and eligible benefits per insured pet—always check before buying.
Exclusions from Scratch & Patch
Exclusions within Scratch & Patch contracts are particularly strict regarding pre-existing conditions and any clinical signs appearing in the first 14 days, even for transfers, unless the previous cover is continuous and validated. The cover systematically excludes older pets for key claims: disease-related or accidental death and loss/straying are not reimbursed for dogs over 8 and cats over 10, which is among the most restrictive age thresholds in the UK market. Dental and gum treatments (except after accident/injury), all preventive, elective, or routine care, as well as aesthetic procedures, are always excluded. Notably, liability coverage is limited to dogs only and is strictly restricted to claims arising in the UK; claims for commercial, working, or dangerous breeds are always excluded. Finally, no reward or advertising expenses can be reimbursed for loss/theft without prior agreement, and claims from inaccurate breed declarations or lack of up-to-date vaccinations are systematically voided.
| Exclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Medical exclusions | - Pre-existing conditions - Conditions showing clinical signs within the first 14 days (unless continuous prior cover) - Preventive, routine or elective care - Dental/gum treatment except in case of accident/injury - Spaying/neutering (unless complications) - Age limits: No death or loss/straying cover for dogs >8yrs or cats >10yrs - Death from illness excluded in Bronze plan - Cremation/burial costs - Pregnancy and birthing or related deaths - Conditions resulting from negligence or abuse - Treatments from non-RCVS registered vets |
| Liability & third-party exclusions | - Liability cover for dogs only (not cats) - Only valid for UK incidents, never abroad - Excludes claims involving family, tenants, employees, people living at home - No cover for working, commercial, or dangerous breeds - No support for claims if insured admits liability without consent |
| Identification and animal status | - Races/breeds on the excluded list (including any under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991) - False breed declarations void cover - Animals below 5 weeks old not covered - Animals used for working, security, breeding, or commercial purposes |
| Geographical exclusions | - Claims (including liability) outside of UK generally excluded - Veterinary travel cover for EU only, RC always UK-only - Loss/theft claims not valid if not reported to police/shelters promptly - Travel/cancellation claims excluded if booked |
| Administrative & procedural exclusions | - No reimbursement of reward/publicity for lost/stolen pets without prior insurer agreement - Claims not submitted within deadlines (e.g. 60 days after event) - Lack of up-to-date vaccinations or anti-parasite treatment voids relevant claims - Hospitalisation for addiction/mental causes (boarding benefit) - Pre-existing bookings for boarding/holidays not covered |
- Conditions showing clinical signs within the first 14 days (unless continuous prior cover)
- Preventive, routine or elective care
- Dental/gum treatment except in case of accident/injury
- Spaying/neutering (unless complications)
- Age limits: No death or loss/straying cover for dogs >8yrs or cats >10yrs
- Death from illness excluded in Bronze plan
- Cremation/burial costs
- Pregnancy and birthing or related deaths
- Conditions resulting from negligence or abuse
- Treatments from non-RCVS registered vets
- Only valid for UK incidents, never abroad
- Excludes claims involving family, tenants, employees, people living at home
- No cover for working, commercial, or dangerous breeds
- No support for claims if insured admits liability without consent
- False breed declarations void cover
- Animals below 5 weeks old not covered
- Animals used for working, security, breeding, or commercial purposes
- Veterinary travel cover for EU only, RC always UK-only
- Loss/theft claims not valid if not reported to police/shelters promptly
- Travel/cancellation claims excluded if booked
- Claims not submitted within deadlines (e.g. 60 days after event)
- Lack of up-to-date vaccinations or anti-parasite treatment voids relevant claims
- Hospitalisation for addiction/mental causes (boarding benefit)
- Pre-existing bookings for boarding/holidays not covered
Scratch & Patch Rates
Scratch & Patch stands out for a highly modular digital-only offer, typically yielding lower premiums than many traditional insurers thanks to streamlined distribution and claims processes. The Bronze level delivers one of the cheapest entry points on the market, mainly due to accident-only cover and restrictive reimbursement caps, but as you move up through Silver and Gold, the policies become more robust―introducing illness, behavioural, and holiday cancellation cover—while still maintaining competitive pricing compared to full-service providers. Prime, Premier, and Premier Plus upgrade to all-inclusive annual limits and broader guarantees, approaching the coverage breadth of the sector’s comprehensive solutions but usually at prices below the most premium players, reflecting modest but not ultra-generous caps. Despite some limits (notably on medication reimbursements and age cut-offs for certain covers), Scratch & Patch is generally positioned as "competitive," particularly valued by pet owners seeking modern, clear, and cost-controlled cover rather than the absolute highest ceilings or zero excess. The platform is especially well-suited to those comfortable managing everything online and prioritising value-for-money over deep customisation or ultra-premium perks.
| Bronze | Silver | Gold | Prime | Premier | Premier Plus | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cat young (2–4y) | £6/mo | £9/mo | £13/mo | £16/mo | £22/mo | £26/mo |
| Cat senior (7–8y) | £10/mo | £15/mo | £20/mo | £26/mo | £33/mo | £39/mo |
| Small dog | £8/mo | £12/mo | £17/mo | £22/mo | £29/mo | £35/mo |
| Small dog (2–4y) | £8/mo | £12/mo | £17/mo | £22/mo | £29/mo | £35/mo |
| Large dog (2–4y) | £11/mo | £17/mo | £24/mo | £32/mo | £41/mo | £48/mo |
| Dog senior (7–8y) | £17/mo | £27/mo | £39/mo | £51/mo | £65/mo | £77/mo |
Compare multiple providers for your pet insurance to make sure you’re getting the best value and coverage for your needs.
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| Scratch & Patch Promo Codes | Details |
|---|---|
| Code promo HelloSafe | -5% off your quote |
| Multi-pet discount | 10% off when adding multiple pets to the same quote* |
How much will I be reimbursed with Scratch & Patch?
| Treatment | Average cost (GB) | Bronze (accidents only) | Gold (accident & illness, up to £4,000/condition, best rate) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Neutering/Spaying | £180 | Not covered | Not covered |
| Annual vaccination | £65 | Not covered | Not covered |
| Broken leg (surgery & care) | £1,800 | Reimbursed £1,800 Out-of-pocket: £0 (excluding excess) (if accident, within annual/time limit) | Reimbursed £1,800 Out-of-pocket: £0 (excluding excess) |
| Vet consultation & medication (illness) | £120 | Not covered | Reimbursed £120 Out-of-pocket: £0 (excluding excess) |
| Dental treatment after accident | £400 | Reimbursed £400 Out-of-pocket: £0 (excluding excess) | Reimbursed £400 Out-of-pocket: £0 (excluding excess) |
Out-of-pocket: £0 (excluding excess)
(if accident, within annual/time limit)
Out-of-pocket: £0 (excluding excess)
Out-of-pocket: £0 (excluding excess)
Out-of-pocket: £0 (excluding excess)
Out-of-pocket: £0 (excluding excess)
Scratch & Patch Support
The 24/7 Vet Careline is a valuable feature, offering owners immediate access to qualified veterinary nurses for advice at any time, which is rare and highly useful for reassurance or preliminary guidance.
Direct payment to vets is possible subject to agreement, alleviating cashflow concerns for policyholders, though no formal advance payment service like Payvet or Petcard exists.
Claims management and policy administration are fully digitalised via email and client portals, but the absence of a dedicated mobile app limits seamless on-the-go experience, especially for claims tracking or document uploads.
No teleconsultation with vets or a partner veterinary network is included, potentially leaving some practical gaps for emergencies or out-of-hours care.
Overseas coverage is offered for short trips in the EU under strict conditions, but does not extend to long-term stays or wider international travel.
| Assistance Scratch & Patch | Disponible ? | Détails |
|---|---|---|
| Advance payment to vet | ❌ | No formal advance payment service is offered. Direct payment to the vet is possible if the clinic agrees, but only post-treatment, not upfront. |
| Payment facilities | ✅ | Annual or monthly payment options are available via Direct Debit. No specific mention of 3x interest-free instalments or additional split options. |
| Mobile application | ❌ | No dedicated mobile app available. All administration and claims managed via web portal and email. |
| Digital claims management | ✅ | Claims submission and document management are handled online via portal and email. No photo upload via dedicated app, but process is paperless. |
| Veterinary emergency (urgent advice or teleconsultation) | ❌ | No teleconsultation service for live vet access. 24/7 careline provides advice from vet nurses, not direct clinical diagnosis or prescriptions. |
| Partner clinic/vet network | ❌ | Claims accepted with any UK RCVS-registered vet. No preferred network or discount structure for partner clinics. |
| Overseas cover | ✅ | Veterinary costs covered during short EU trips only, subject to contract limits and specific conditions. Long-term overseas or non-EU travel excluded. |
Customer feedback on Scratch & Patch
| Review Site | Rating and number of reviews |
|---|---|
| Trustpilot | Note not explicitly provided, but several hundred reviews referenced (most relevant source for volume and detail) |
We have analysed the reviews from the sites mentioned above. On the positive side, pet owners who have taken out a Scratch & Patch policy often mention:
- The competitive prices: many customers state that Scratch & Patch offers the best value compared to other providers or comparison sites, with clear options and alternative levels of cover presented at renewal.
- The responsive and courteous customer service: administrative changes are handled quickly (such as changes in direct debit date or adding a pet), with multiple ways to contact the company, including WhatsApp and an efficient 24/7 veterinary advice Careline. Staff are described as attentive, informative, and helpful.
- The clarity and transparency of information: explanations regarding contracts and coverage levels are reported to be clear, and customers appreciate the regular email advice and useful information about pet care.
- The efficient claims handling: the administrative process and returning payments (even relating to the death of a pet) are often described as fast and straightforward, with online claims easy to use.
- A proactive approach to complaint resolution: the company contacts dissatisfied reviewers directly to investigate and address issues, with a commitment to reply to all negative Trustpilot reviews, usually within 24 hours.
On the negative side:
- The reimbursement of medication costs is frequently criticised, as there is a fixed cap based on manufacturer or wholesaler prices, meaning several clients are reimbursed significantly less than the amount actually paid at the vet, especially for veterinary medicines. Some are advised to "shop around" online for better prices, which is not always feasible.
- The claims process is sometimes perceived as rigid, particularly due to the lack of pre-authorisation: claimants must pay and submit documentation with no guarantee of reimbursement, leading to concerns and disappointment if their claims are later refused.
- Communication during claims can sometimes be laborious, with some clients reporting that refusals are poorly explained or that there is a lack of follow-up during emotionally difficult times (such as during serious illness or following the death of a pet).
- Some reviews remain neutral or in wait-and-see mode from policyholders who have not yet needed to make a claim, indicating a perceived uncertainty about future service quality.
- A small number of clients have questioned the integrity of reviews or changes in review status, notably when a one-star review was allegedly changed to a four-star review, though the company insists that it does not remove reviews and that Trustpilot manages moderation independently.
How can I contact Scratch & Patch?
| Scratch & Patch customer service | Details |
|---|---|
| To get a quote or subscribe online | You can use the HelloSafe pet insurance comparison tool to choose the best plan for your needs and click to get a quote. Alternatively, visit www.scratchandpatch.co.uk to compare and subscribe directly. For any questions before subscribing, contact customer service via the Contact form, Live Chat, or by email at [email protected]. |
| To request and track a reimbursement | Declare and track your claim online via the client portal or by contacting [email protected]. If needed, you can also call 0330 1026839 (subject to availability, see website for service status). Required documents: claim form, invoices, detailed veterinary medical records, proof of payment if reimbursement was already made to the vet. Reimbursement method: bank transfer (directly to the policyholder or to the vet where applicable). Processing time: most reimbursements are handled within 10 working days according to customer reviews, provided the file is complete. |
| To obtain a proof of insurance | Request your proof of insurance by email at [email protected] or via the Live Chat available on the website. Remember to provide your contract number, full name, and the intended use of the document. You can also call 0330 1026839 if needed (if line available). Most documents are sent by email within 2 working days. |
| To contact assistance | Access the Vet Careline 24/7 for veterinary advice at 0330 1026839 (single number) or via the Live Chat on the website. For any medical emergency, please contact your usual veterinarian as a priority. For administrative questions: [email protected]. For claim tracking: [email protected]. You can also use the Contact form. |
| To cancel my contract | Contact customer service by phone at 0330 1026839 or by email at [email protected] to submit your cancellation request. Cancellation is possible at any time. Required documents: contract number, ID, reason for cancellation (e.g.: pet deceased, sale, etc.). Standard notice period: immediate upon acknowledgment (subject to effective contact), written confirmation provided. Cancellation fee: £30 (except in the event of the animal’s death). If a claim was made during the current year, the balance of the annual premium will be due and may be deducted from any eventual indemnity. Confirmation and any prorated refund will be provided within 15 days. |
Alternatively, visit www.scratchandpatch.co.uk to compare and subscribe directly.
For any questions before subscribing, contact customer service via the Contact form, Live Chat, or by email at [email protected].
If needed, you can also call 0330 1026839 (subject to availability, see website for service status).
Required documents: claim form, invoices, detailed veterinary medical records, proof of payment if reimbursement was already made to the vet.
Reimbursement method: bank transfer (directly to the policyholder or to the vet where applicable).
Processing time: most reimbursements are handled within 10 working days according to customer reviews, provided the file is complete.
Remember to provide your contract number, full name, and the intended use of the document.
You can also call 0330 1026839 if needed (if line available).
Most documents are sent by email within 2 working days.
For any medical emergency, please contact your usual veterinarian as a priority.
For administrative questions: [email protected].
For claim tracking: [email protected].
You can also use the Contact form.
or by email at [email protected] to submit your cancellation request.
Cancellation is possible at any time.
Required documents: contract number, ID, reason for cancellation (e.g.: pet deceased, sale, etc.).
Standard notice period: immediate upon acknowledgment (subject to effective contact), written confirmation provided.
Cancellation fee: £30 (except in the event of the animal’s death).
If a claim was made during the current year, the balance of the annual premium will be due and may be deducted from any eventual indemnity. Confirmation and any prorated refund will be provided within 15 days.
FAQ
Do I have to pay vet fees upfront with Scratch & Patch?
Scratch & Patch allows direct payment to your vet if the practice agrees, meaning you might not have to pay vet fees upfront. However, this depends on your vet’s cooperation—some may require you to pay first, then claim back from Scratch & Patch. Always confirm with your vet in advance, as pre-authorisation is not available and claims are reviewed once all paperwork is submitted.
How do I cancel my pet insurance with Scratch & Patch?
To cancel your Scratch & Patch pet insurance, contact their customer service by phone (or via email if phone lines are down). You can cancel at any time, giving notice. A £30 cancellation fee applies unless your pet has passed away. If you've made a claim during the policy year, any outstanding premium must be paid in full; for cancellation, provide your policy details.
What pets and breeds are eligible for Scratch & Patch insurance?
Scratch & Patch covers cats and dogs from 5 weeks old, but excludes dogs used for commercial, guarding, or racing purposes and certain breeds (like Pit Bull Terrier, Cane Corso, etc). Dogs classed as dangerous under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 are also excluded. Always check their exclusions list before purchasing to ensure your pet is eligible.
Is there a waiting period before coverage starts?
Yes, there is a 14-day waiting period for new illnesses when you take out a new policy, unless you are switching directly from another insurer without a break in cover—in this case, no waiting period applies. Cover for accidents generally starts immediately. Pre-existing conditions or symptoms showing in the waiting period are always excluded.
Are routine and preventive treatments covered?
No, Scratch & Patch does not cover routine care such as vaccinations, neutering/spaying, teeth cleaning, or flea/worming treatments. The insurance is designed for unexpected events like accidents or new illnesses. Preventive and elective procedures are excluded from all levels of cover, so regular care remains your responsibility.
Do I have to pay vet fees upfront with Scratch & Patch?
Scratch & Patch allows direct payment to your vet if the practice agrees, meaning you might not have to pay vet fees upfront. However, this depends on your vet’s cooperation—some may require you to pay first, then claim back from Scratch & Patch. Always confirm with your vet in advance, as pre-authorisation is not available and claims are reviewed once all paperwork is submitted.
How do I cancel my pet insurance with Scratch & Patch?
To cancel your Scratch & Patch pet insurance, contact their customer service by phone (or via email if phone lines are down). You can cancel at any time, giving notice. A £30 cancellation fee applies unless your pet has passed away. If you've made a claim during the policy year, any outstanding premium must be paid in full; for cancellation, provide your policy details.
What pets and breeds are eligible for Scratch & Patch insurance?
Scratch & Patch covers cats and dogs from 5 weeks old, but excludes dogs used for commercial, guarding, or racing purposes and certain breeds (like Pit Bull Terrier, Cane Corso, etc). Dogs classed as dangerous under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 are also excluded. Always check their exclusions list before purchasing to ensure your pet is eligible.
Is there a waiting period before coverage starts?
Yes, there is a 14-day waiting period for new illnesses when you take out a new policy, unless you are switching directly from another insurer without a break in cover—in this case, no waiting period applies. Cover for accidents generally starts immediately. Pre-existing conditions or symptoms showing in the waiting period are always excluded.
Are routine and preventive treatments covered?
No, Scratch & Patch does not cover routine care such as vaccinations, neutering/spaying, teeth cleaning, or flea/worming treatments. The insurance is designed for unexpected events like accidents or new illnesses. Preventive and elective procedures are excluded from all levels of cover, so regular care remains your responsibility.
