Is Post Office Pet Insurance Worth It? Reviews 2025
Our Expert's Opinion on Post Office
Post Office Lifetime Pet Insurance for Rabbits stands out in the UK market as one of the only dedicated lifetime policies for rabbits, underwritten and managed by Pinnacle Insurance plc (BNP Paribas), an established insurer regulated by the FCA and PRA. With annual reimbursement up to a personalised ceiling, this policy covers vet bills, prescribed diets, a wide range of complementary treatments, and search/advertising expenses in case of loss or theft. The excess structure is tiered and generally increases as the rabbit ages, so it’s essential to check policy documents for details specific to each case. Unlike multi-species competitors, Post Office targets a unique niche and offers a broad and reassuring set of benefits, especially for responsible owners seeking long-term, consistent medical reimbursement. This contract is best suited to rabbits insured young (from 8 weeks) before their 5th birthday, with continuous coverage for life as long as premiums are paid. The insurer has a strong reputation, with Pinnacle Insurance posting solid financial stability as a BNP Paribas affiliate. According to customer feedback, 98% of claims are paid in full, with most reimbursements processed within a week, often as little as 3 days. While the exact Trustpilot rating is not displayed, user reviews are overwhelmingly positive and number over 100, confirming the policy’s reliability in real-life situations.
- One of the only true lifetime covers for rabbits
- Broad vet fee cover including dental, physio, homeopathy
- Covers owner hospitalisation boarding costs
- Prescribed diets reimbursed up to 25% for 6 months
- Fast claims processing: most paid within a week
- 98% full payout rate on claims reported
- Managed by Pinnacle Insurance, BNP Paribas group
- Strict exclusions for pre-existing and early-claim conditions
- Excess increases with the pet's age
- Limited to rabbits aged under 5 at first cover
- No extension to non-rabbit pets or multi-pet discounts
- Annual limits and excesses vary per client certificate
- Post Office Guarantees
- Post Office Exclusions
- Post Office Rates
- Typical Monthly Premiums – Post Office Pet Insurance, UK (£/month)
- Post Office Assistance
- Customer feedback on Post Office
- How to contact the Post Office?
- FAQ
Why trust HelloSafe?
At HelloSafe, our pet insurance expert reviews policy terms and pricing from across the UK market every year to provide you with reliable, unbiased analysis. Thanks to this thorough approach, hundreds of thousands of users in the UK trust us each month to guide them in making their most important financial decisions.
Post Office Guarantees
Post Office Lifetime Pet Insurance for Rabbits stands out for its lifetime, species-specific cover, reimbursing all eligible veterinary costs (including complementary therapies and herbal treatments) up to the annual limit set per individual policy, with a flexible excess that adjusts based on the rabbit's age. Unique advantages include comprehensive dental cover (accident and illness, subject to regular check-ups), long-term claims for chronic conditions while insured, and inclusion of a clinical diet reimbursement (25%) for up to six months per condition. The policy also covers owner hospitalisation (boarding costs) and loss/theft search expenses, providing broader welfare protection than some generic pet insurers, but lacks routine/preventive dental scaling, vaccinations, and does not extend beyond the UK, Channel Islands, or Isle of Man. At the same time, exclusions around pre-existing conditions, short initial waiting periods for illness (14 days) and accident (3 days), and ineligibility for rabbits over 5 at policy start do limit accessibility for older or previously ill pets. Strict requirements for annual veterinary checks and following vet advice are imposed to maintain cover.
| Guarantee name | Post Office Lifetime Pet Insurance for Rabbits |
|---|---|
| Product positioning | Lifetime health insurance for rabbits (UK only) |
| Type of cover | Accident, illness, complementary treatments |
| Covered animals | Rabbits only |
| Reimbursement rate (%) | NC (claim payments subject to annual cap, see policy) |
| Annual vet fees coverage limit | Set individually on the policy certificate |
| Excess (per claim or annual) | Fixed/percent per vet claim, variable by age, see cert |
| Minimum & max sign-up age (rabbits) | 8 weeks (min); before 5th birthday (max) |
| Health questionnaire required? | NC |
| Waiting period — illness | 14 days from policy start |
| Waiting period — accident | 3 days from policy start |
| Lifetime renewal after sign-up? | Yes, as long as contract conditions and payments met |
| Vet consultations (routine/emergency/specialist) | Covered up to annual cap |
| Medications | Included (all prescribed, plus herbal/homeopathic) |
| Hospitalisation | Covered up to annual limit |
| Ambulance fees | NC |
| Surgery, anaesthesia | Covered up to annual limit |
| Scans, MRI, ultrasound | Covered up to annual limit |
| Laboratory tests | Covered up to annual limit |
| Radiotherapy | NC |
| Dental treatment | Accident & illness if regular checks/advice followed |
| Dental scaling | Not covered (routine/preventive not included) |
| Preventive care package | Not covered (except diet: 25% clinical food up to 6mo) |
| Alternative medicine (osteopathy/acupuncture/etc.) | Covered if vet-prescribed (hydrotherapy, acupuncture…) |
| Therapeutic food | 25% reimbursement for clinical diet up to 6mo/cond. |
| Covered countries / travel | UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man only |
| Death/cremation | NC |
| Euthanasia | Included (if recommended by vet for welfare/illness) |
| Loss/theft/search costs | Covered (ads, reward, local search, annual cap) |
| Boarding (owner hospitalised) | Hotel: covered; Non-resident carer: £15/day; limits apply |
Good to know
Only the first occurrence of fly strike (myiasis) is covered; subsequent cases are excluded. Preventive/routine care (including vaccinations, non-clinical diets, nail trimming, routine dentals) and incidents due to owner negligence or lack of reasonable care are not covered. Cover is withdrawn if annual vet checks or vet advice are not strictly followed. Regular requirements for up-to-date vaccinations and accurate, prompt information to the insurer are strictly enforced.
Post Office Exclusions
The Post Office Lifetime Pet Insurance for Rabbits stands out for its particularly strict exclusions on pre-existing conditions (including prior symptoms), mandatory waiting periods (14 days for illness and loss/theft, 3 days for accidents/poisoning), and uncompromising requirements regarding dental care eligibility (annual dental checks and prompt compliance with veterinary recommendations are mandatory). Claims linked to conditions preventable by vaccination, injuries from fights between pets in the same household or deliberate acts, or routine procedures (like scale removal or nail clipping) are also explicitly excluded, which is stricter than some generalist UK competitors. Coverage is strictly territorial (UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man), with no benefits abroad. Reimbursement for loss/theft excludes any reward paid to family or guardians and any non-accredited pet detective services. Hospitalisation cover for the pet owner excludes incidents due to substance abuse, self-inflicted injury, or events around pregnancy, reinforcing a risk selection rarely detailed in equivalent policies.
| Exclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Medical exclusions | - Pre-existing illnesses/symptoms (prior to policy or within waiting period) - Illness (<14 days), accident/poisoning (<3 days) post-inception - Preventable diseases (if not vaccinated) - Routine care (scaling, nail clipping, non-essential immobilisation) - Dental illness (if no regular checks or non-compliance with vet advice) - Treatments for injuries from household pet fights or deliberate acts - Costs exceeding annual or per-condition limits/franchise - Multiple protective collars or cones per claim - Veterinary report/form fees, travel expenses - At-home treatments or unnecessary hospitalisation |
| Geographical exclusions | - No cover outside UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man - Incidents/expenses incurred abroad excluded |
| Exclusions relating to identification and proof | - Loss/theft in the first 14 days - Reward to family or pet minder - Non-accredited ‘pet detective’ service fees |
| Exclusions relating to owner’s health or conduct | - Hospitalisation cover excluded if due to alcohol/drugs, self-harm, or pregnancy - Negligence, unlawful care, or lack of reasonable attention to the rabbit (e.g. failure to provide adequate food, shelter, or proper care) |
| Animal eligibility | - Rabbits under 8 weeks old at policy inception not eligible - Animals held/bred not in accordance with UK law or as a business - Indirect losses (e.g. economic consequences beyond direct vet/claim costs) |
| Force majeure and other legal exclusions | - Acts of war, riots, terrorism, pollution, nuclear events, and regulatory events - Anything not meeting general policy or legal obligations (e.g. inaccurate information at enrolment) |
- Illness (<14 days), accident/poisoning (<3 days) post-inception
- Preventable diseases (if not vaccinated)
- Routine care (scaling, nail clipping, non-essential immobilisation)
- Dental illness (if no regular checks or non-compliance with vet advice)
- Treatments for injuries from household pet fights or deliberate acts
- Costs exceeding annual or per-condition limits/franchise
- Multiple protective collars or cones per claim
- Veterinary report/form fees, travel expenses
- At-home treatments or unnecessary hospitalisation
- Incidents/expenses incurred abroad excluded
- Reward to family or pet minder
- Non-accredited ‘pet detective’ service fees
- Negligence, unlawful care, or lack of reasonable attention to the rabbit (e.g. failure to provide adequate food, shelter, or proper care)
- Animals held/bred not in accordance with UK law or as a business
- Indirect losses (e.g. economic consequences beyond direct vet/claim costs)
- Anything not meeting general policy or legal obligations (e.g. inaccurate information at enrolment)
Post Office Rates
Post Office positions itself as a mid-range pet insurer in the UK market, balancing reasonably comprehensive cover with competitive pricing, particularly for common risks and routine care. Its lifetime policies for rabbits, cats, and dogs offer good year-on-year continuity, access to complementary therapies, and support services like 24/7 helplines, but feature standard exclusions and some cost-controlling measures typical for this segment (e.g., fixed annual limits, age-based excess increases). While not the absolute cheapest, Post Office leverages efficient digital management—reflected in fast claims, transparent processes, and a strong reputation for claims payment—which helps keep premiums below traditional “main street” providers offering similar coverage tiers. Customer experiences point to strong value for money, yet some limitations emerge for owners seeking very high claim limits or wider prevention reimbursement found in more premium options. Overall, the Post Office offer sits in a broadly competitive, median position, with clear suitability for owners looking for reliability and balanced cover at a fair market rate.
Typical Monthly Premiums – Post Office Pet Insurance, UK (£/month)
| Standard | Classic | Lifetime | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Young Cat (2–4 years) | £8 | £11 | £17 |
| Senior Cat (7–8 years) | £13 | £17 | £25 |
| Small Dog (2–4 years) | £11 | £15 | £22 |
| Large Dog (2–4 years) | £15 | £21 | £33 |
| Senior Dog (7–8 years) | £19 | £27 | £43 |
Consider comparing Post Office with other UK providers to ensure the lowest price for the right level of pet cover.
👉 Compare pet insurance plans for freeStart saving on vet billsPost Office promo codes
| Post Office Promo Codes | Details |
|---|---|
| Free £35 Gift Basket | Offered for any new pet insurance subscription. Terms apply. |
How much will I be reimbursed with Post Office?
| Treatment | Average Cost (GBP) | Post Office Lifetime Insurance* | Post Office Time-Limited Insurance* | Post Office Maximum Benefit Insurance* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Castration / Spay | £250 | Reimbursed £225 (90%) Out-of-pocket: £25 (excluding excess) | Reimbursed £225 (90%) Out-of-pocket: £25 (excluding excess) | Reimbursed £225 (90%) Out-of-pocket: £25 (excluding excess) |
| Annual Vaccination | £60 | Not covered Out-of-pocket: £60 | Not covered Out-of-pocket: £60 | Not covered Out-of-pocket: £60 |
| Broken bone (fracture) treatment | £950 | Reimbursed £855 (90%) Out-of-pocket: £95 (excluding excess) | Reimbursed £855 (90%) Out-of-pocket: £95 (excluding excess) | Reimbursed £855 (90%) Out-of-pocket: £95 (excluding excess) |
| Gastroenteritis (hospitalisation) | £500 | Reimbursed £450 (90%) Out-of-pocket: £50 (excluding excess) | Reimbursed £450 (90%) Out-of-pocket: £50 (excluding excess) | Reimbursed £450 (90%) Out-of-pocket: £50 (excluding excess) |
| Dental care after accident | £350 | Reimbursed £315 (90%) Out-of-pocket: £35 (excluding excess) | Reimbursed £315 (90%) Out-of-pocket: £35 (excluding excess) | Reimbursed £315 (90%) Out-of-pocket: £35 (excluding excess) |
Out-of-pocket: £25 (excluding excess)
Out-of-pocket: £25 (excluding excess)
Out-of-pocket: £25 (excluding excess)
Out-of-pocket: £60
Out-of-pocket: £60
Out-of-pocket: £60
Out-of-pocket: £95 (excluding excess)
Out-of-pocket: £95 (excluding excess)
Out-of-pocket: £95 (excluding excess)
Out-of-pocket: £50 (excluding excess)
Out-of-pocket: £50 (excluding excess)
Out-of-pocket: £50 (excluding excess)
Out-of-pocket: £35 (excluding excess)
Out-of-pocket: £35 (excluding excess)
Out-of-pocket: £35 (excluding excess)
Post Office Assistance
The Post Office offers a smooth and highly digitalised claims process, praised by owners for its clarity, speed (often under a week) and direct-to-vet payment option, which is a considerable advantage during stressful times.
Its 24/7 helpline for non-urgent veterinary advice is accessible, but there is no integrated emergency teleconsultation or crisis management with vets out of hours, which limits support in acute situations.
No dedicated partner veterinary network is included, so reimbursement is possible regardless of the vet, but clients must manage the relationship themselves.
The digital interface is easy to use for claims and policy management but there is no dedicated mobile app and no indication of industry-leading user experience on existing online platforms.
Geographical coverage is restricted to the UK, Channel Islands, and Isle of Man, so no international cover is offered for travel or temporary stays abroad.
| Assistance Post Office | Disponible ? | Détails |
|---|---|---|
| Advance of costs | ✅ | Direct-to-vet payment available upon request, subject to vet's agreement. Simplifies the process for the owner in case of large expenses. Not guaranteed for all practices. |
| Payment facilities | ✅ | Monthly or annual payments offered. No mention of 3x or 4x no-fee split payment options. |
| Mobile application | ❌ | No dedicated mobile app for claims or account management. All processes handled via web portal. No rating on iOS/Android stores. |
| Digital claims management | ✅ | Online platform for claim submission and follow-up. Clients highlight seamless digital process in reviews. No paper forms needed. |
| Veterinary emergency | ❌ | 24/7 helpline available for non-urgent advice, behaviour, nutrition or lost pet. No medical triage, teleconsultation or emergency veterinary dispatch. |
| Veterinary partner network | ❌ | No preferred partner network; free choice of vet. No negotiated rates or fast-track connections provided. |
| Cover abroad | ❌ | Only valid in the UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man. No cover for treatment outside these areas or during trips. |
Simplifies the process for the owner in case of large expenses.
Not guaranteed for all practices.
No mention of 3x or 4x no-fee split payment options.
All processes handled via web portal.
No rating on iOS/Android stores.
Clients highlight seamless digital process in reviews.
No paper forms needed.
No medical triage, teleconsultation or emergency veterinary dispatch.
No negotiated rates or fast-track connections provided.
No cover for treatment outside these areas or during trips.
Customer feedback on Post Office
| Review site | Rating and number of reviews |
|---|---|
| Trustpilot | No explicit global rating shown, but 98% of claims fully paid according to customer feedback (hundreds of reviews, most recent) |
| Feefo | Not quoted (insufficient volume specific to Pet Insurance for rabbits) |
| Reviews.co.uk | Not quoted (insufficient volume specific to Pet Insurance for rabbits) |
We have analysed the reviews from the sites listed above. Among the positive aspects, customers who have chosen Post Office pet insurance frequently mention:
- A fast and transparent claims process: the online claim and reimbursement procedure is viewed as very simple, paperless and efficient, with tracking at every step.
- Prompt payments: reimbursements are often received within a week, sometimes as quickly as three days after submitting a claim, with the possibility of direct payment to the vet.
- Responsive customer service: service teams are available by phone and email, and provide regular updates and clear guidance throughout any claim or policy management.
- Comprehensive coverage: owners feel their pets are genuinely well protected, with high claim satisfaction even for large medical bills and treatments.
- Clear, user-friendly online platform: policy management and documentation are straightforward, with helpful online tools for handling multiple pets or reviewing coverage.
- Good value for money: competitive quotes, flexibility in policy options and a perception of quality relative to price.
On the negative side:
- Pre-existing condition exclusions: claims related to issues present before the policy start are routinely declined, sometimes frustrating owners if the initial acceptance was unclear.
- Some claim rejections: a minority of customers mention denied claims even when their vet supported the case, leading to disappointment and confusion.
- Long response times for disputes: when customers challenge a claim decision, it can occasionally take more than a month to receive a formal answer, although the insurer is noted to reply to 100% of such cases.
- The need to chase up veterinary paperwork: progress on some claims depends on receiving information from the treating vet, occasionally requiring the owner to follow up actively, though the insurer usually assists as well.
How to contact the Post Office?
| Service client Post Office | Détails |
|---|---|
| To get a quote or subscribe online | You can use the HelloSafe pet insurance comparison tool, choose the plan that suits you, and click to get a quote. |
| To request and track a reimbursement | - Submit and track claims via your online customer space: postoffice.co.uk/myaccountpet - Or by phone: 0330 123 1921 - Documents to provide: completed claim form (if required), detailed vet invoice, proof of payment, and any requested medical documents. - Average reimbursement time: most claims are paid within a week, sometimes as quickly as 3 days. - Reimbursements are made directly to your bank account or can be paid to the vet (if agreed). - Tracking available online; email updates are provided. - Postal address (for claim submission if not online): Pinnacle House, A1 Barnet Way, Borehamwood, Hertfordshire WD6 2XX. |
| To obtain an insurance certificate | - Download it from your online customer account: postoffice.co.uk/myaccountpet - If you have issues, call 0330 123 1921 or write to Pinnacle House, A1 Barnet Way, Borehamwood, Hertfordshire WD6 2XX. |
| To contact assistance | - For non-urgent veterinary advice (24/7 helpline): call Petcall (details provided with your policy documents—usually available through the main customer line: 0330 123 1921). - For claim support or emergencies, phone the main line or use your online account: postoffice.co.uk/myaccountpet |
| To cancel my contract | - Notify cancellation by phone: 0330 123 1921, online via your customer account, or by letter to Pinnacle House, A1 Barnet Way, Borehamwood, Hertfordshire WD6 2XX. - Cooling-off period: 14 days from subscription or receipt of documents to cancel free if no claim was made. - For cancellation after 14 days: - For monthly payment: direct debit is stopped from the date of cancellation unless a claim was paid (then all premiums for the year are due). - Yearly payment: pro-rata refund of unused portion, unless a claim was paid (then see specific terms; usually no refund). - No specific documents required, but include your contract number and personal details for identification. - Notice period: effective from the moment of notification, unless otherwise stated in your policy. |
- Or by phone: 0330 123 1921
- Documents to provide: completed claim form (if required), detailed vet invoice, proof of payment, and any requested medical documents.
- Average reimbursement time: most claims are paid within a week, sometimes as quickly as 3 days.
- Reimbursements are made directly to your bank account or can be paid to the vet (if agreed).
- Tracking available online; email updates are provided.
- Postal address (for claim submission if not online): Pinnacle House, A1 Barnet Way, Borehamwood, Hertfordshire WD6 2XX.
- If you have issues, call 0330 123 1921 or write to Pinnacle House, A1 Barnet Way, Borehamwood, Hertfordshire WD6 2XX.
- For claim support or emergencies, phone the main line or use your online account: postoffice.co.uk/myaccountpet
- Cooling-off period: 14 days from subscription or receipt of documents to cancel free if no claim was made.
- For cancellation after 14 days:
- For monthly payment: direct debit is stopped from the date of cancellation unless a claim was paid (then all premiums for the year are due).
- Yearly payment: pro-rata refund of unused portion, unless a claim was paid (then see specific terms; usually no refund).
- No specific documents required, but include your contract number and personal details for identification.
- Notice period: effective from the moment of notification, unless otherwise stated in your policy.
FAQ
Do I have to pay veterinary fees upfront with Post Office Pet Insurance?
With Post Office Pet Insurance, you usually pay the vet directly and then claim a reimbursement. However, in many cases, Post Office can pay your vet directly if the vet is willing to accept payment from the insurer. This helps reduce out-of-pocket costs, but you should always check with your vet in advance to see if they accept direct payment. Most claims are settled quickly, often within a week, offering peace of mind if you need to cover a bill first.
How do I cancel my Post Office pet insurance policy?
To cancel your Post Office pet insurance, contact customer service by phone or through your online account. You must give written notice and follow the provided instructions, observing the required notice period found in your policy—usually a minimum of 14 days. If you cancel outside the cooling-off period, include your policy details and provide any requested documentation. Premium refunds depend on whether a claim has been paid during the current policy year.
What animals does the Post Office pet insurance cover, and are there age limits?
Post Office offers pet insurance for rabbits, cats, and dogs. For rabbits, you can insure them from 8 weeks up to their 5th birthday. Once insured, cover is lifelong as long as you renew and keep payments up to date. Each species has its own eligibility conditions, so always check your policy for specific rules.
Are pre-existing conditions covered by Post Office pet insurance?
No, pre-existing conditions are excluded. This means any illness, injury, or symptom that showed before you took out a policy or during the initial waiting period is not covered. It's important to review your pet’s medical history and the full exclusion list in your certificate so you know what to expect when making a claim.
What types of treatments and costs does the Post Office pet insurance actually cover?
Post Office pet insurance covers most vet bills up to your annual policy limit, including consultations, prescribed medicines, surgery, specialist treatments, recommended diets for medical issues, and even some complementary therapies like hydrotherapy or acupuncture if prescribed by your vet. Dental cover is included for accidents and certain illness cases, provided you follow regular dental checks. However, routine care, preventative treatments, and some specific events listed in your policy are not covered.
Do I have to pay veterinary fees upfront with Post Office Pet Insurance?
With Post Office Pet Insurance, you usually pay the vet directly and then claim a reimbursement. However, in many cases, Post Office can pay your vet directly if the vet is willing to accept payment from the insurer. This helps reduce out-of-pocket costs, but you should always check with your vet in advance to see if they accept direct payment. Most claims are settled quickly, often within a week, offering peace of mind if you need to cover a bill first.
How do I cancel my Post Office pet insurance policy?
To cancel your Post Office pet insurance, contact customer service by phone or through your online account. You must give written notice and follow the provided instructions, observing the required notice period found in your policy—usually a minimum of 14 days. If you cancel outside the cooling-off period, include your policy details and provide any requested documentation. Premium refunds depend on whether a claim has been paid during the current policy year.
What animals does the Post Office pet insurance cover, and are there age limits?
Post Office offers pet insurance for rabbits, cats, and dogs. For rabbits, you can insure them from 8 weeks up to their 5th birthday. Once insured, cover is lifelong as long as you renew and keep payments up to date. Each species has its own eligibility conditions, so always check your policy for specific rules.
Are pre-existing conditions covered by Post Office pet insurance?
No, pre-existing conditions are excluded. This means any illness, injury, or symptom that showed before you took out a policy or during the initial waiting period is not covered. It's important to review your pet’s medical history and the full exclusion list in your certificate so you know what to expect when making a claim.
What types of treatments and costs does the Post Office pet insurance actually cover?
Post Office pet insurance covers most vet bills up to your annual policy limit, including consultations, prescribed medicines, surgery, specialist treatments, recommended diets for medical issues, and even some complementary therapies like hydrotherapy or acupuncture if prescribed by your vet. Dental cover is included for accidents and certain illness cases, provided you follow regular dental checks. However, routine care, preventative treatments, and some specific events listed in your policy are not covered.
