Is M&S Pet Insurance Worth It? Reviews 2025

Our Expert’s Opinion on M&S

Last update: 27 May 2025
M&S
M&S
4.1
hellosafe-logoScore
Charlotte Green
Charlotte Green
Finance content specialist

M&S Pet Insurance, underwritten by Royal & Sun Alliance Insurance Ltd (RSA), offers one of the most comprehensive ranges of pet insurance options in the UK, spanning from time-limited Essential cover to robust lifetime Premier policies. With annual vet fee limits from £3,000 (Essential) up to £10,000 (Premier), and standout features such as up to £1,000 for complementary treatments and £2,000,000 third party liability cover (dogs, Premier), the product range addresses both essential and premium needs. All plans include 24/7 access to vetfone™, and dental illness cover is available from the Standard level. The pricing and cover structure place M&S as a high-value, mid-to-premium insurer, outshining many direct competitors on cover depth—especially via its Premier tier with wide EU travel, dental cover, and higher limits, though at a relatively higher price point and with annual premium increases as pets age.

M&S is particularly suitable for owners seeking long-term, continuous cover for pedigree or ageing pets, frequent travellers requiring EU vet cover, and those prioritising strong claims service and comprehensive lifetime reimbursements. It's less optimal for very tight budgets or for owners preferring digital-only experiences, but the pricing is competitive among non-digital high street brands.

RSA, the insurer behind the product, is a FTSE250-listed multinational with substantial revenues and a history of insurance reliability. Claims statistics are impressive: 97% of claims paid within 5 days, and 98% within a week (RSA data 2023–24), reflecting process efficiency above market average. However, the M&S Pet Insurance Trustpilot profile is not independently listed among the top 20 UK pet insurers—which typically feature TrustScores above 4.4 from thousands of reviews—suggesting more modest public feedback volumes. Nevertheless, RSA’s operational stability, transparent T&Cs, and accessible support further solidify M&S’s quality and dependability.

  • Four cover levels to fit a range of needs and budgets
  • Premier cover up to £10,000 per year, high dental and overseas cover
  • 24/7 vetfone helpline included across all policies
  • Complementary treatments cover up to £1,000 on Premier plan
  • Fast claims: 97% paid within 5 days (RSA data)
  • Liability cover for dogs up to £2m (Premier), all plans include
  • Multi-pet and online discounts available
  • Premiums and excess rise sharply with pet age and claims
  • No public Trustpilot score or visibility among top-rated UK insurers
  • Limited digital-first claims and onboarding experience
  • Strict exclusions for pre-existing conditions and early illnesses
  • Dental illness cover only from Standard level and above
  • Four cover levels to fit a range of needs and budgets
  • Premier cover up to £10,000 per year, high dental and overseas cover
  • 24/7 vetfone helpline included across all policies
  • Complementary treatments cover up to £1,000 on Premier plan
  • Fast claims: 97% paid within 5 days (RSA data)
  • Liability cover for dogs up to £2m (Premier), all plans include
  • Multi-pet and online discounts available

Our Expert’s Opinion on M&S

Last update: 27 May 2025
Charlotte Green
Charlotte Green
Finance content specialist
M&S
M&S
4.1
hellosafe-logoScore

M&S Pet Insurance, underwritten by Royal & Sun Alliance Insurance Ltd (RSA), offers one of the most comprehensive ranges of pet insurance options in the UK, spanning from time-limited Essential cover to robust lifetime Premier policies. With annual vet fee limits from £3,000 (Essential) up to £10,000 (Premier), and standout features such as up to £1,000 for complementary treatments and £2,000,000 third party liability cover (dogs, Premier), the product range addresses both essential and premium needs. All plans include 24/7 access to vetfone™, and dental illness cover is available from the Standard level. The pricing and cover structure place M&S as a high-value, mid-to-premium insurer, outshining many direct competitors on cover depth—especially via its Premier tier with wide EU travel, dental cover, and higher limits, though at a relatively higher price point and with annual premium increases as pets age.

M&S is particularly suitable for owners seeking long-term, continuous cover for pedigree or ageing pets, frequent travellers requiring EU vet cover, and those prioritising strong claims service and comprehensive lifetime reimbursements. It's less optimal for very tight budgets or for owners preferring digital-only experiences, but the pricing is competitive among non-digital high street brands.

RSA, the insurer behind the product, is a FTSE250-listed multinational with substantial revenues and a history of insurance reliability. Claims statistics are impressive: 97% of claims paid within 5 days, and 98% within a week (RSA data 2023–24), reflecting process efficiency above market average. However, the M&S Pet Insurance Trustpilot profile is not independently listed among the top 20 UK pet insurers—which typically feature TrustScores above 4.4 from thousands of reviews—suggesting more modest public feedback volumes. Nevertheless, RSA’s operational stability, transparent T&Cs, and accessible support further solidify M&S’s quality and dependability.

  • Four cover levels to fit a range of needs and budgets
  • Premier cover up to £10,000 per year, high dental and overseas cover
  • 24/7 vetfone helpline included across all policies
  • Complementary treatments cover up to £1,000 on Premier plan
  • Fast claims: 97% paid within 5 days (RSA data)
  • Liability cover for dogs up to £2m (Premier), all plans include
  • Multi-pet and online discounts available
  • Premiums and excess rise sharply with pet age and claims
  • No public Trustpilot score or visibility among top-rated UK insurers
  • Limited digital-first claims and onboarding experience
  • Strict exclusions for pre-existing conditions and early illnesses
  • Dental illness cover only from Standard level and above
  • Four cover levels to fit a range of needs and budgets
  • Premier cover up to £10,000 per year, high dental and overseas cover
  • 24/7 vetfone helpline included across all policies
  • Complementary treatments cover up to £1,000 on Premier plan
  • Fast claims: 97% paid within 5 days (RSA data)
  • Liability cover for dogs up to £2m (Premier), all plans include
  • Multi-pet and online discounts available
Table of Contents
  • M&S Guarantees
  • M&S exclusions
  • M&S prices
  • M&S Support
  • Customer feedback on M&S
  • How to contact M&S?
  • FAQ
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Why trust HelloSafe?

At HelloSafe, our pet insurance experts review the terms and conditions as well as pricing of insurance policies available on the UK market every year, to provide you with reliable and unbiased analysis. Thanks to this rigorous approach, hundreds of thousands of users in the UK trust us each month to support them in making their most important financial decisions.

M&S Guarantees

M&S Pet Insurance stands out for offering both time-limited (Essential) and true lifetime policies (Standard, Plus, Premier), with annual vet fee limits up to £10,000 and access to advanced cover including dental illness, behavioural, dietary and overseas treatments (Premier). All formulas include 24/7 vetfone™ advice, a multi-pet discount, and strong liability cover, although only the Premier includes comprehensive overseas and travel disruption protection. Key exclusions apply—no pre-existing conditions, routine care, unvaccinated illnesses or professional/excluded breeds are covered, and waiting periods apply for illness (14 days).

Essential’s main drawback is its 12-month treatment cap per condition, while higher-tier policies (Standard/Plus/Premier) reinstate limits each policy year, offering better long-term illness protection. Prevention, holistic therapies, and routine treatments are never reimbursed, and excesses increase after the pet turns 9, requiring owners to watch annual renewal costs and franchise escalation.

Guarantee NameEssentialStandardPlusPremier
Formula positioningEntry-level, time-limitedLifetime, accessibleLifetime, enhancedLifetime, comprehensive
Type of coverAccident & illness (12 months/condition)Accident & illness (annual limit)Accident & illness (annual limit)Accident & illness (annual limit + travel)
Animals coveredAll dogs (except excluded)/cats, 8w+All dogs (except excluded)/cats, 8w+All dogs (except excluded)/cats, 8w+All dogs (except excluded)/cats, 8w+
Reimbursement rate (%)NCNCNCNC
Annual vet fee limit£3,000 per condition/12 months max£4,000/year, £1,000/condition£2,000 or £3,000/year (chosen)£5,000 / £7,000 / £10,000 per year
Annual/per-visit excessOnce per accident/illness per claimPer condition, per policy yearPer condition, per policy yearPer condition, per policy year
Cats: min/max age at subscription8w / NC8w / NC8w / NC8w / NC
Dogs: min/max age at subscription8w / NC8w / NC8w / NC8w / NC
Health questionnaire requiredNCNCNCNC
Waiting period illness14 days14 days14 days14 days
Waiting period accidentNCNCNCNC
Lifetime cover after acceptance
Vet consultations (all types)✅ limit £3,000/condition✅ limit £4,000/year✅ limit (£2k/£3k)/year✅ limit (£5k/£7k/£10k)/year
Medication✅ within annual/per-illness limit✅ within annual limit✅ within annual limit✅ within annual limit
Hospitalisation✅ within annual/per-illness limit✅ within annual limit✅ within annual limit✅ within annual limit
Ambulance feesNCNCNC30p/mile included (Premier only)
Surgery, anaesthesia✅ within annual/per-illness limit✅ within annual limit✅ within annual limit✅ within annual limit
Scans/IRM/Ultrasounds✅ within annual/per-illness limit✅ within annual limit✅ within annual limit✅ within annual limit
Lab analyses✅ within annual/per-illness limit✅ within annual limit✅ within annual limit✅ within annual limit
RadiotherapyNC
Dental (illness & accident)Accident onlyAccident & illness (limit)Accident & illness (limit)Accident & illness (limit)
Descaling
Preventive care package
Complementary therapies£500 (within vet fees)£500 (within vet fees)£500 (within vet fees)£1,000 (within vet fees)
Holistic/alternative medicineNCNCNCNC
Therapeutic diet£200/year (included)
Covered countries/tripsUK, IOM, Channel IslandsUK, IOM, Channel IslandsUK, IOM, Channel IslandsUK/IOM/CI + EU (with restrictions)
Death/cremation£600 death, £100 cremation£600 death, £100 cremation£600 death, £100 cremation£1,500 death, £200 cremation
Euthanasia£100£100£100£200
Theft/loss/search costs£600 per event£600 per event£600 per event£1,500 per event
Emergency boarding£60/week, £600/year£60/week, £600/year£70/week, £750/year
Comparison of M&S Pet Insurance policies and benefits
Formula positioning
Essential
Entry-level, time-limited
Standard
Lifetime, accessible
Plus
Lifetime, enhanced
Premier
Lifetime, comprehensive
Type of cover
Essential
Accident & illness (12 months/condition)
Standard
Accident & illness (annual limit)
Plus
Accident & illness (annual limit)
Premier
Accident & illness (annual limit + travel)
Animals covered
Essential
All dogs (except excluded)/cats, 8w+
Standard
All dogs (except excluded)/cats, 8w+
Plus
All dogs (except excluded)/cats, 8w+
Premier
All dogs (except excluded)/cats, 8w+
Reimbursement rate (%)
Essential
NC
Standard
NC
Plus
NC
Premier
NC
Annual vet fee limit
Essential
£3,000 per condition/12 months max
Standard
£4,000/year, £1,000/condition
Plus
£2,000 or £3,000/year (chosen)
Premier
£5,000 / £7,000 / £10,000 per year
Annual/per-visit excess
Essential
Once per accident/illness per claim
Standard
Per condition, per policy year
Plus
Per condition, per policy year
Premier
Per condition, per policy year
Cats: min/max age at subscription
Essential
8w / NC
Standard
8w / NC
Plus
8w / NC
Premier
8w / NC
Dogs: min/max age at subscription
Essential
8w / NC
Standard
8w / NC
Plus
8w / NC
Premier
8w / NC
Health questionnaire required
Essential
NC
Standard
NC
Plus
NC
Premier
NC
Waiting period illness
Essential
14 days
Standard
14 days
Plus
14 days
Premier
14 days
Waiting period accident
Essential
NC
Standard
NC
Plus
NC
Premier
NC
Lifetime cover after acceptance
Essential
Standard
Plus
Premier
Vet consultations (all types)
Essential
✅ limit £3,000/condition
Standard
✅ limit £4,000/year
Plus
✅ limit (£2k/£3k)/year
Premier
✅ limit (£5k/£7k/£10k)/year
Medication
Essential
✅ within annual/per-illness limit
Standard
✅ within annual limit
Plus
✅ within annual limit
Premier
✅ within annual limit
Hospitalisation
Essential
✅ within annual/per-illness limit
Standard
✅ within annual limit
Plus
✅ within annual limit
Premier
✅ within annual limit
Ambulance fees
Essential
NC
Standard
NC
Plus
NC
Premier
30p/mile included (Premier only)
Surgery, anaesthesia
Essential
✅ within annual/per-illness limit
Standard
✅ within annual limit
Plus
✅ within annual limit
Premier
✅ within annual limit
Scans/IRM/Ultrasounds
Essential
✅ within annual/per-illness limit
Standard
✅ within annual limit
Plus
✅ within annual limit
Premier
✅ within annual limit
Lab analyses
Essential
✅ within annual/per-illness limit
Standard
✅ within annual limit
Plus
✅ within annual limit
Premier
✅ within annual limit
Radiotherapy
Essential
Standard
Plus
Premier
NC
Dental (illness & accident)
Essential
Accident only
Standard
Accident & illness (limit)
Plus
Accident & illness (limit)
Premier
Accident & illness (limit)
Descaling
Essential
Standard
Plus
Premier
Preventive care package
Essential
Standard
Plus
Premier
Complementary therapies
Essential
£500 (within vet fees)
Standard
£500 (within vet fees)
Plus
£500 (within vet fees)
Premier
£1,000 (within vet fees)
Holistic/alternative medicine
Essential
NC
Standard
NC
Plus
NC
Premier
NC
Therapeutic diet
Essential
Standard
Plus
Premier
£200/year (included)
Covered countries/trips
Essential
UK, IOM, Channel Islands
Standard
UK, IOM, Channel Islands
Plus
UK, IOM, Channel Islands
Premier
UK/IOM/CI + EU (with restrictions)
Death/cremation
Essential
£600 death, £100 cremation
Standard
£600 death, £100 cremation
Plus
£600 death, £100 cremation
Premier
£1,500 death, £200 cremation
Euthanasia
Essential
£100
Standard
£100
Plus
£100
Premier
£200
Theft/loss/search costs
Essential
£600 per event
Standard
£600 per event
Plus
£600 per event
Premier
£1,500 per event
Emergency boarding
Essential
Standard
£60/week, £600/year
Plus
£60/week, £600/year
Premier
£70/week, £750/year
Comparison of M&S Pet Insurance policies and benefits
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Good to know

  • No policy covers preventive care (vaccinations, worming, neutering) or costs related to routine treatments.
  • All conditions are grouped: recurrences or cause-linked follow-ups count toward the same limit.
  • Annual excess increases by £100 for pets aged 9+ (accident/illness claims).
  • Liability cover applies to dogs only, within the UK, and excludes professional use/family claims.
  • Premier is the sole option for EU trip cover (max 3 trips, 60 days each per year, strict entry procedure compliance).

To benefit from the best value, always compare M&S quotes with other UK pet insurers before deciding.

👉 Compare pet insurance plans for freeStart saving on vet bills

M&S exclusions

Exclusions under M&S Pet Insurance are extensive and reflect a robust risk selection, notable for grouping relapses and related conditions under a single claim limit (i.e., cruciate ligaments or recurrent spinal issues).

Pre-existing conditions, illnesses occurring within the first 14 days, and diseases your pet should have been vaccinated against are systematically excluded—without flexibility.

Use of the animal for commercial/professional purposes (including breeding beyond two litters, security, working, or racing) voids cover, as do restricted breeds and any legal or deliberate harm cases.

Notably, overseas treatment is only covered under the Premier policy if all strict Pet Travel Scheme requirements are met, and any breach of microchipping or travel limits excludes all support abroad.

Excesses and price increase significantly once the pet turns 9, and any claim activity can lead to substantial premium hikes at renewal, which is not the case with all competitors.

ExclusionsDetails
Medical Exclusions- Pre-existing conditions
- Conditions or symptoms shown before policy start or during the first 14 days
- Routine/preventive treatment (including vaccinations, neutering, worming, flea/tick treatment, dental scaling, grooming)
- Notifiable diseases (e.g. rabies)
- Non-prescribed or non-vet treatments
Exclusions due to Vaccinations- Any illness or disease your pet should have been vaccinated against, if vaccines were missed/not up to date
Exclusions by Usage/Breed- Animals under 8 weeks at policy start
- Restricted breeds: Pit Bull Terrier, Dogo Argentino, Tosa, wolf-dog hybrids, etc.
- Dogs used for guard, attack, commercial breeding (more than 2 litters), security, business use, racing, fighting, or commercial hunting
Geographical Exclusions- Non-UK claims outside “Pets Abroad” (Premier only; then only for travel to EU under strict Pet Travel Scheme, up to 3 trips per year, 60 days per trip)
- Claims excluded if Pet Travel Scheme rules not strictly adhered to (microchipping, paperwork, timing etc.)
Identification Exclusions- Overseas cover excluded if pet not microchipped as required by law (PET Scheme)
Deliberate/Legal Exclusions- Deliberate or wilful harm by the owner or anyone living with them
- Claims involving illegal acts or breach of animal welfare rules/laws
Administrative Exclusions- Failure to provide required reports/evidence for claims (vet reports, invoices, police if theft/loss)
- Claims notified outside required timescale (usually 60 days)
Other Policy Exclusions- Cost of food/diet unless covered in Premier preventive treatment
- Boarding/kennel fees unless linked to hospitalisation (according to cover level)
- Claims for ongoing or recurring conditions under Essential once 12 months or the vet fee cap is reached
Financial/Contract Exclusions- No upper limit on renewal premium increases
- Excess increased by £100 from pet’s 9th birthday
Main M&S Pet Insurance exclusions and their details
Medical Exclusions
Details
- Pre-existing conditions
- Conditions or symptoms shown before policy start or during the first 14 days
- Routine/preventive treatment (including vaccinations, neutering, worming, flea/tick treatment, dental scaling, grooming)
- Notifiable diseases (e.g. rabies)
- Non-prescribed or non-vet treatments
Exclusions due to Vaccinations
Details
- Any illness or disease your pet should have been vaccinated against, if vaccines were missed/not up to date
Exclusions by Usage/Breed
Details
- Animals under 8 weeks at policy start
- Restricted breeds: Pit Bull Terrier, Dogo Argentino, Tosa, wolf-dog hybrids, etc.
- Dogs used for guard, attack, commercial breeding (more than 2 litters), security, business use, racing, fighting, or commercial hunting
Geographical Exclusions
Details
- Non-UK claims outside “Pets Abroad” (Premier only; then only for travel to EU under strict Pet Travel Scheme, up to 3 trips per year, 60 days per trip)
- Claims excluded if Pet Travel Scheme rules not strictly adhered to (microchipping, paperwork, timing etc.)
Identification Exclusions
Details
- Overseas cover excluded if pet not microchipped as required by law (PET Scheme)
Deliberate/Legal Exclusions
Details
- Deliberate or wilful harm by the owner or anyone living with them
- Claims involving illegal acts or breach of animal welfare rules/laws
Administrative Exclusions
Details
- Failure to provide required reports/evidence for claims (vet reports, invoices, police if theft/loss)
- Claims notified outside required timescale (usually 60 days)
Other Policy Exclusions
Details
- Cost of food/diet unless covered in Premier preventive treatment
- Boarding/kennel fees unless linked to hospitalisation (according to cover level)
- Claims for ongoing or recurring conditions under Essential once 12 months or the vet fee cap is reached
Financial/Contract Exclusions
Details
- No upper limit on renewal premium increases
- Excess increased by £100 from pet’s 9th birthday
Main M&S Pet Insurance exclusions and their details

M&S prices

M&S Pet Insurance stands in a clear median pricing position among UK providers, generally offering comprehensive core benefits especially on its Premier plan, but without the highest annual premiums seen on the ultra-premium market.

Coverage levels are adaptable – Essential and Standard are more restrictive (e.g. time-limited, minimal extras), while Plus and particularly Premier provide strong, ongoing cover, generous annual vet fee limits, dental, and extras for travel or emergencies.

Franchises/excesses align with national norms (increasing with age), and the brand offers some digital services (online discounts, fast claims), which contain costs, though distribution is not pure-player so pricing remains mainstream.

M&S is neither the cheapest nor the costliest; its appeal lies in balanced guarantees and the reliability of an established underwriter, with a more traditional claims and service process.

Thus, the offering can be considered firmly mid-market: suitable for those seeking solid, well-rounded cover rather than budget or very high-end policies.

EssentialStandardPlus (£2,000)Plus (£3,000)Premier (£5,000)Premier (£7,000)Premier (£10,000)
Young cat (2-4 yrs)£8/mo£13/mo£15/mo£19/mo£21/mo£25/mo£29/mo
Older cat (7-8 yrs)£13/mo£20/mo£22/mo£27/mo£30/mo£35/mo£40/mo
Small breed dog£13/mo£19/mo£23/mo£28/mo£31/mo£36/mo£42/mo
Small breed dog (2-4 yrs)£11/mo£16/mo£19/mo£25/mo£27/mo£32/mo£37/mo
Large breed dog (2-4 yrs)£16/mo£24/mo£30/mo£37/mo£42/mo£50/mo£57/mo
Senior dog (7-8 yrs)£21/mo£32/mo£38/mo£46/mo£53/mo£62/mo£71/mo
Indicative monthly premium estimate for M&S Pet Insurance (UK, per month)
Young cat (2-4 yrs)
Essential
£8/mo
Standard
£13/mo
Plus (£2,000)
£15/mo
Plus (£3,000)
£19/mo
Premier (£5,000)
£21/mo
Premier (£7,000)
£25/mo
Premier (£10,000)
£29/mo
Older cat (7-8 yrs)
Essential
£13/mo
Standard
£20/mo
Plus (£2,000)
£22/mo
Plus (£3,000)
£27/mo
Premier (£5,000)
£30/mo
Premier (£7,000)
£35/mo
Premier (£10,000)
£40/mo
Small breed dog
Essential
£13/mo
Standard
£19/mo
Plus (£2,000)
£23/mo
Plus (£3,000)
£28/mo
Premier (£5,000)
£31/mo
Premier (£7,000)
£36/mo
Premier (£10,000)
£42/mo
Small breed dog (2-4 yrs)
Essential
£11/mo
Standard
£16/mo
Plus (£2,000)
£19/mo
Plus (£3,000)
£25/mo
Premier (£5,000)
£27/mo
Premier (£7,000)
£32/mo
Premier (£10,000)
£37/mo
Large breed dog (2-4 yrs)
Essential
£16/mo
Standard
£24/mo
Plus (£2,000)
£30/mo
Plus (£3,000)
£37/mo
Premier (£5,000)
£42/mo
Premier (£7,000)
£50/mo
Premier (£10,000)
£57/mo
Senior dog (7-8 yrs)
Essential
£21/mo
Standard
£32/mo
Plus (£2,000)
£38/mo
Plus (£3,000)
£46/mo
Premier (£5,000)
£53/mo
Premier (£7,000)
£62/mo
Premier (£10,000)
£71/mo
Indicative monthly premium estimate for M&S Pet Insurance (UK, per month)

To get the lowest possible price for coverage that fits your needs, always compare several insurers and options before you decide to purchase.

👉 Compare pet insurance plans for freeStart saving on vet bills

M&S promo codes

M&S promo codesDetails
15% online discount15% discount for new policies purchased online
10% multi-pet discount10% discount per pet when insuring 2+ pets
Code promo HelloSafe-5% on your quote
M&S pet insurance promo codes and discounts
15% online discount
Details
15% discount for new policies purchased online
10% multi-pet discount
Details
10% discount per pet when insuring 2+ pets
Code promo HelloSafe
Details
-5% on your quote
M&S pet insurance promo codes and discounts

Note: Codes and promotions are subject to change. For the latest promo codes, please visit our comparison of the best pet insurance offers.

How much will I be reimbursed with M&S?

M&S pet insurance reimburses your vet bills according to the cover level you choose: with the Premier plan (the most comprehensive), you benefit from one of the UK’s highest annual vet fee limits (choose £5,000, £7,000 or £10,000/year), dental treatment (accident & illness), overseas cover, and extras like behaviour and dietary treatment. Here’s how your reimbursement and remaining costs might look with Premier cover:

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Example 1: Treatment for a dog's cruciate ligament rupture

Total vet fees: £2,800 (consultations, X-rays, surgery, medication and four weeks follow-up)

Excess payable (owner's contribution): £99 (for pets under 9 years; £199 if pet is 9+), applies once per condition per insurance year

Covered amount after excess: £2,800 – £99 = £2,701

Reimbursement: £2,701 reimbursed by M&S Premier (annual limit not reached; vet fees covered in full after excess)

👉 You receive £2,701 back. Out-of-pocket cost: only the £99 excess.

The excess applies to each condition per insurance year. If your pet needs further related treatment in the next year, a new excess is deducted.

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Example 2: Dental scale and extractions for severe feline oral disease

Total vet fees: £700 (diagnosis, dental cleaning under anaesthesia, extractions, antibiotics)

Excess payable: £99 (for a cat under 9 years; £199 if pet is 9+)

Covered amount after excess: £700 – £99 = £601

Reimbursement: £601 repaid to you by M&S Premier cover.

👉 You receive £601 back. Out-of-pocket cost: just the £99 excess.

Many UK pet insurance policies don't cover dental illness – but M&S Premier does, for both accident and disease, provided annual checkups and recommended treatment are up to date.

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Example 3: Behavioural therapy for canine separation anxiety

Total cost: £250 (vet-referred behaviourist sessions covered under 'behavioural treatment' benefit)

Excess payable: £99 per behaviourist referral (dogs under 9 years)

Covered amount after excess: £250 – £99 = £151

Reimbursement: £151 paid to you (with the £250 annual behaviour limit on Premier).

👉 You receive £151 net reimbursement. Your out-of-pocket cost is £99.

Behavioural therapy is only covered on the Premier plan, up to £250 per year, and only if referred/recommended by your vet.

M&S Support

M&S Pet Insurance provides a 24/7 veterinary helpline (vetfone™) as the primary assistance service, which can be highly valuable for pet owners needing immediate advice.

No upfront payment service for vet bills is available, so customers need to pay the vet and claim reimbursement, which is a limitation compared to providers offering direct vet payments in the UK.

There is no mobile app: administration and claims are managed online or by phone, which may be seen as less convenient given the widespread app adoption in the UK market.

Emergency vet access is limited to phone advice only, with no video teleconsultation or fast-track clinical partnerships, potentially leaving owners to organise out-of-hours emergencies themselves.

Overseas cover is available but strictly for Premier tier customers, limited to the EU/PET Scheme, up to 3 trips/year (max 60 days/trip), so regular or non-EU travellers are not fully supported.

Assistance M&SAvailable ?Details
Upfront payment for vet billsNo direct-to-vet payment. Owners must pay up front and claim back.
Payment instalment optionsMonthly payments available at no extra cost for customers.
Mobile appNo dedicated mobile app. Claims and management via website/phone.
Digital claims processClaims submitted online via website form; no app, but fully digital.
24/7 Emergency vet advice hotlinevetfone™ helpline offers 24/7 veterinary nurse support by phone.
Partner vet/clinic networkNo approved vet network; customers can use any UK licensed vet.
Overseas coverOnly on Premier policies: up to 3 trips/year, max 60 days/trip.
Covers EU/PET Scheme countries only; up to £2,000 in vet fees/trip.
Summary of core M&S Pet Insurance assistance features and options.
Upfront payment for vet bills
Available ?
Details
No direct-to-vet payment. Owners must pay up front and claim back.
Payment instalment options
Available ?
Details
Monthly payments available at no extra cost for customers.
Mobile app
Available ?
Details
No dedicated mobile app. Claims and management via website/phone.
Digital claims process
Available ?
Details
Claims submitted online via website form; no app, but fully digital.
24/7 Emergency vet advice hotline
Available ?
Details
vetfone™ helpline offers 24/7 veterinary nurse support by phone.
Partner vet/clinic network
Available ?
Details
No approved vet network; customers can use any UK licensed vet.
Overseas cover
Available ?
Details
Only on Premier policies: up to 3 trips/year, max 60 days/trip.
Available ?
Details
Covers EU/PET Scheme countries only; up to £2,000 in vet fees/trip.
Summary of core M&S Pet Insurance assistance features and options.

Customer feedback on M&S

Review siteScore and number of reviews
TrustpilotNot ranked in the top,
Review CentreNot communicated (fewer than 100 reviews)
Defaqto5 stars, independently rated, but not based on customer review volume (expert rating)
Summary of M&S Pet Insurance reviews on major platforms
Trustpilot
Score and number of reviews
Not ranked in the top,
Review Centre
Score and number of reviews
Not communicated (fewer than 100 reviews)
Defaqto
Score and number of reviews
5 stars, independently rated, but not based on customer review volume (expert rating)
Summary of M&S Pet Insurance reviews on major platforms

We have analysed the feedback from the above sources and publicly available reviews. In positive aspects, M&S Pet Insurance policyholders often note:

  • The speed of claims processing and reimbursement: a high proportion of claims are settled within a few days, making the experience smooth for most customers.
  • The clarity and completeness of the policy features: policyholders appreciate the detailed documentation and transparency regarding what is included, especially for dental and overseas travel coverage in the Premier plan.
  • The value for money for new policies: introductory discounts (online and multi-pet) and no extra charges for monthly payments are highlighted as attractive.
  • The 24/7 vetfone™ helpline: access to a professional veterinary nurse at any time is valued by most users for peace of mind.
  • The ability to tailor coverage to different needs: four tiers and both time-limited and lifetime options allow flexibility for customers with different budgets or animals.

In negative aspects:

  • The sharp increase in premiums at renewal, especially after a claim or as the pet ages, is a recurring frustration; some customers report premiums doubling after a serious illness or accident claim.
  • The exclusions and excess increases for older pets are found to be restrictive by some customers, particularly when conditions arise shortly after policy start or for pre-existing issues.
  • The strict application of exclusions (pre-existing conditions, initial 14 days, vaccination status) can come as a surprise, leading to declined claims.
  • The aggregation of linked conditions under a single claim cap, especially in the Essential plan, leaves some policyholders out of pocket when similar or related illnesses occur.
  • The lack of routine care (vaccinations, neutering, flea/worm treatments) and some limits on non-accident dental coverage are seen as gaps by a minority of users.

How to contact M&S?

M&S customer serviceDetails
To get a quote or take out insurance onlineYou 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- Call 0800 980 8750 (M&S claims, free call, Monday–Friday 8am–6pm, Saturday 9am–1pm excluding bank holidays).
- Or complete the online claim form available on the M&S website, to be returned with your vet's help.
- Attach all supporting documents: invoices, veterinary reports, proof of purchase.
- Submit the claim within 60 days after treatment.
- 97% of reimbursements are paid within 5 days, to your bank account.
To obtain proof of insurance- Contact customer service at 0800 980 8740 (free call, Monday–Friday 8am–6pm, Saturday 9am–1pm) to request a certificate.
- You can also use the online chat service on the M&S website during opening hours.
To contact assistance- For 24/7 veterinary advice, call vetfone™ at 0800 980 5583 (free line, every day, all year round).
- For urgent administrative or contract-related matters: general customer service at 0800 980 8740.
To cancel my policy- Call customer service at 0800 980 8740 (Monday–Friday 8am–6pm, Saturday 9am–1pm) or send a written request to:
Customer Services, M&S Pet Insurance, PO Box 1609, Preston PR2 0RX.
- No notice required: cancellation is possible at any time, including within the first 14 days (full right of withdrawal).
- Include your contact details, policy number, explicit cancellation request and any supporting documents requested (in particular in case of death or sale of the animal).
- A pro rata refund may be granted if you pay annually and haven't made a claim.
How to contact M&S customer service: procedures, phone numbers and support.
To get a quote or take out insurance online
Details
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
Details
- Call 0800 980 8750 (M&S claims, free call, Monday–Friday 8am–6pm, Saturday 9am–1pm excluding bank holidays).
- Or complete the online claim form available on the M&S website, to be returned with your vet's help.
- Attach all supporting documents: invoices, veterinary reports, proof of purchase.
- Submit the claim within 60 days after treatment.
- 97% of reimbursements are paid within 5 days, to your bank account.
To obtain proof of insurance
Details
- Contact customer service at 0800 980 8740 (free call, Monday–Friday 8am–6pm, Saturday 9am–1pm) to request a certificate.
- You can also use the online chat service on the M&S website during opening hours.
To contact assistance
Details
- For 24/7 veterinary advice, call vetfone™ at 0800 980 5583 (free line, every day, all year round).
- For urgent administrative or contract-related matters: general customer service at 0800 980 8740.
To cancel my policy
Details
- Call customer service at 0800 980 8740 (Monday–Friday 8am–6pm, Saturday 9am–1pm) or send a written request to:
Customer Services, M&S Pet Insurance, PO Box 1609, Preston PR2 0RX.
- No notice required: cancellation is possible at any time, including within the first 14 days (full right of withdrawal).
- Include your contact details, policy number, explicit cancellation request and any supporting documents requested (in particular in case of death or sale of the animal).
- A pro rata refund may be granted if you pay annually and haven't made a claim.
How to contact M&S customer service: procedures, phone numbers and support.

FAQ

Do I have to pay the vet bill upfront with M&S?

With M&S Pet Insurance, you usually need to pay your vet directly and then claim back the eligible costs, as M&S does not offer a direct payment system or third-party payment platform like Payvet. After treatment, complete the claims process (online or paper) with your vet, and M&S will reimburse you, minus your policy excess, if the claim is approved.

How do I cancel my M&S pet insurance policy?

To cancel your M&S Pet Insurance, you should contact their customer service—preferably in writing or via phone—and provide your policy number and reason for cancellation. There is no minimum contract period beyond the 14-day cooling-off phase, but if you’ve claimed, premiums may be adjusted. Attach relevant documents if requested and allow for standard processing time (no fixed notice period stated).

Does M&S pet insurance cover existing health problems?

No, M&S pet insurance excludes pre-existing conditions—anything your pet had symptoms of, was diagnosed with, or treated for before your policy started and during the first 14 days. Conditions your vet or you were already aware of will not be covered under any of their policy levels.

Is dental treatment included in M&S pet insurance?

Dental cover at M&S differs by plan. Essential only covers dental treatment after an accident. Standard, Plus, and Premier policies include dental care for both accidents and illnesses, as long as the pet’s dental health is maintained according to policy terms. Annual check-ups and recommended dental work may be required for claims.

Does M&S pet insurance cover trips abroad?

Only the Premier policy at M&S offers veterinary fee cover for travel within eligible EU countries under the Pet Travel Scheme. Cover is up to £2,000 per trip, for up to 3 trips a year (60 days each), and includes certain travel-related emergencies. Lower-level plans do not include this overseas cover.

Do I have to pay the vet bill upfront with M&S?

With M&S Pet Insurance, you usually need to pay your vet directly and then claim back the eligible costs, as M&S does not offer a direct payment system or third-party payment platform like Payvet. After treatment, complete the claims process (online or paper) with your vet, and M&S will reimburse you, minus your policy excess, if the claim is approved.

How do I cancel my M&S pet insurance policy?

To cancel your M&S Pet Insurance, you should contact their customer service—preferably in writing or via phone—and provide your policy number and reason for cancellation. There is no minimum contract period beyond the 14-day cooling-off phase, but if you’ve claimed, premiums may be adjusted. Attach relevant documents if requested and allow for standard processing time (no fixed notice period stated).

Does M&S pet insurance cover existing health problems?

No, M&S pet insurance excludes pre-existing conditions—anything your pet had symptoms of, was diagnosed with, or treated for before your policy started and during the first 14 days. Conditions your vet or you were already aware of will not be covered under any of their policy levels.

Is dental treatment included in M&S pet insurance?

Dental cover at M&S differs by plan. Essential only covers dental treatment after an accident. Standard, Plus, and Premier policies include dental care for both accidents and illnesses, as long as the pet’s dental health is maintained according to policy terms. Annual check-ups and recommended dental work may be required for claims.

Does M&S pet insurance cover trips abroad?

Only the Premier policy at M&S offers veterinary fee cover for travel within eligible EU countries under the Pet Travel Scheme. Cover is up to £2,000 per trip, for up to 3 trips a year (60 days each), and includes certain travel-related emergencies. Lower-level plans do not include this overseas cover.

Charlotte Green
Charlotte Green
Finance content specialist
HelloSafe
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.

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