Is Tesco Pet Insurance Worth It? Review 2025
Our Expert's Opinion on Tesco
Tesco Bank is a significant player in the UK’s pet insurance market, offering four distinct policies—Standard, Extra, Premier, and Accident Only—tailored to various pet owners’ needs and budgets. With reimbursement rates up to 100% on eligible vet fees in some plans and annual cover limits ranging from £3,000 to £10,000 (Premier), Tesco stands among the market’s leaders for cover flexibility and high maximum payout, rivalling providers like Petplan for comprehensive protection but often at a more competitive price, especially for multi-pet households. Tesco’s £60 annual fixed excess (with a 20% co-payment for pets over 8 years old) and inclusion of a £60 annual preventive care benefit (Premier) further enhance its cost-effectiveness. The insurance is well-suited to owners of young animals seeking high reimbursement, pedigree pets subject to breed-specific conditions, and those prioritising generous annual limits and straightforward claims management. Backed by Tesco Bank, with gross written premiums over £200m annually and a Trustpilot score of 4.4/5 from more than 15,000 reviews, Tesco demonstrates robust financial stability and customer satisfaction. Claims are typically processed within 5–10 working days, placing Tesco among the most efficient insurers for reimbursement timelines.
- Up to £10,000 annual veterinary fee cover (Premier)
- Option for 100% reimbursement on eligible claims
- Preventive care benefit included on top plan (£60/year)
- Four policy levels to match different budgets
- Fast claims processing: average 5–10 working days
- Multi-pet discounts available
- High Trustpilot score (4.4 on 15,000+ reviews)
- 20% co-payment for pets above 8 years old
- No Lifetime cover on Accident-Only policy
- Dental cover limited to accident/injury only (except Premier)
- Annual excess applies per condition
- Breed-specific exclusions for certain hereditary illnesses
- Tesco guarantees
- Tesco Exclusions
- Tesco pricing
- Tesco Assistance
- Customer feedback on Tesco
- How to contact Tesco?
- FAQ
Why trust HelloSafe?
At HelloSafe, our pet insurance expert reviews the terms and pricing of 34 leading insurance policies on the UK market every year to provide you with reliable and impartial analysis. Thanks to this rigorous approach, hundreds of thousands of users across the UK trust us every month to help guide them through their most important financial decisions. undefined
Tesco guarantees
Tesco offers four pet insurance plans—Accident & Injury, Standard, Extra, and Premier—each providing ascending levels of vet fee cover (£3,000 to £10,000 per year) with a typical reimbursement rate of 100% after a fixed excess (£60–£120 per condition, per policy year).
The policies stand out for their broad accident and illness cover, life-long renewable plans, and optional dental, theft, and boarding benefits; only the Premier plan includes coverage for ongoing conditions and the highest annual vet fees.
Tesco's core strengths are excellent claims transparency, fast online processing, lifetime cover, and comprehensive travel/vacation protection, though alternatives may offer higher prescription limits, routine care, or specialist treatments.
Preventive and routine care (such as vaccination, neutering, and check-ups) is not reimbursed, and hereditary/pre-existing conditions, elective procedures, and pregnancy-related care are standard exclusions.
Convenient for most owners, Tesco targets value-focused, responsible pet parents but may lack add-ons for advanced or chronic care needs.
| Name of guarantee | Accident & Injury | Standard | Extra | Premier |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Formula positioning | Entry-level budget | Mid-range comprehensive | Advanced, higher cover | Premium, lifetime, max cover |
| Type of cover | Accident only | Accident & illness | Accident & illness | Accident & illness (ongoing/chronic) |
| Animals covered | Dog, cat | Dog, cat | Dog, cat | Dog, cat |
| Reimbursement rate | 100% minus excess | 100% minus excess | 100% minus excess | 100% minus excess |
| Annual vet fee limit | £3,000 (12-month limit per condition) | £4,000 (12-month limit per condition) | £7,500 (12-month limit per condition) | £10,000 per policy year (lifetime) |
| Excess per claim/policy year | £60 per condition, 12 months limit | £60 per condition, per year | £60 per condition, per year | £120 per condition, per year |
| Min & max age (cats) | 8 weeks – 5 years (new cover) | 8 weeks – 8 years (new cover) | 8 weeks – 8 years (new cover) | 8 weeks – 8 years (new cover) |
| Min & max age (dogs) | 8 weeks – 5 years (new cover) | 8 weeks – 8 years (new cover) | 8 weeks – 8 years (new cover) | 8 weeks – 8 years (new cover) |
| Health questionnaire pre-inception | Not required | Not required | Not required | Not required |
| Waiting period for illness | Not covered | 14 days | 14 days | 14 days |
| Waiting period for accident | 5 days | 5 days | 5 days | 5 days |
| Lifetime guaranteed renewal | No, end at 12 months | No, end at 12 months | No, end at 12 months | Yes, lifetime renewable |
| Average claim turnaround | 5–10 working days | 5–10 working days | 5–10 working days | 5–10 working days |
| Vet consultation (routine, emergency) | Covered for accidents only | Covered | Covered | Covered |
| Medication | Accident-related medicines only | Accident & illness prescriptions | Accident & illness prescriptions | Accident & illness prescriptions |
| Hospitalisation | Covered for accidents only | Covered | Covered | Covered |
| Ambulance fees | Covered, accident only | Covered | Covered | Covered |
| Surgery, anaesthetic | Covered for accidents only | Accident & illness | Accident & illness | Accident & illness |
| MRI, CT scan, ultrasound | Accident only | Accident & illness | Accident & illness | Accident & illness |
| Lab tests | Accident only | Accident & illness | Accident & illness | Accident & illness |
| Radiotherapy | Not covered | Not covered | Not covered | Covered |
| Dental | Emergency only, accident | Optional extra | Optional extra | Covered (illness, accident, extraction) |
| Teeth scaling | Not covered | Not covered | Not covered | Not covered |
| Vaccinations (incl. boosters) | Not covered | Not covered | Not covered | Not covered |
| Parasite/flea/worm treatment | Not covered | Not covered | Not covered | Not covered |
| Sterilisation/neutering | Not covered | Not covered | Not covered | Not covered |
| Microchipping/ID costs | Not covered | Not covered | Not covered | Not covered |
| Hygiene products | Not covered | Not covered | Not covered | Not covered |
| Alternative therapies | Not covered | Not covered | Not covered | Covered up to policy limit |
| Geographical cover/travel | UK only | UK, EU, PETS scheme countries | UK, EU, PETS scheme countries | UK, EU, PETS scheme countries |
| Death/cremation | Not covered | Optional add-on | Optional add-on | Covered (death, loss by theft/straying) |
| Euthanasia | Accident only | Optional add-on | Optional add-on | Covered |
| Theft/straying/straying loss | Not covered | Optional add-on | Optional add-on | Covered (limits apply) |
| Kennel/cattery fees | Not covered | Optional add-on | Optional add-on | Covered (if owner hospitalised) |
Policy details are subject to change; always confirm with Tesco before purchase. Some limits or sub-limits may apply to specific conditions or treatments.
Tesco Exclusions
Tesco Pet Insurance applies standard medical exclusions such as pre-existing conditions, congenital and hereditary diseases, and anything arising within initial waiting periods, but notable distinctions include the systematic exclusion of conditions linked to breeding or pregnancy, as well as cruciate ligament injuries for pets over a certain age.
Claims resulting from neglect, failure to follow prescribed vaccination schedules, or misuse of medication are entirely excluded, with particular focus on treatments for diseases preventable by routine vaccinations.
Unlike some competitors, cover is strictly limited to the UK, Channel Islands, and Isle of Man—treatments abroad, even if urgent, are not reimbursed.
Identification inconsistencies, such as microchipping or registration issues, void eligibility for reimbursement if required by law or policy terms.
Lastly, cosmetic procedures, elective surgeries, and costs related to dietary management or behavioral issues not prescribed by a veterinary professional remain firmly excluded.
| Exclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Medical exclusions | - Pre-existing conditions - Hereditary/congenital disorders - Conditions within waiting periods - Breeding, pregnancy, or parturition-related issues - Age-triggered exclusions (e.g., cruciate ligament injuries in older pets) - Preventable diseases (if vaccination omitted) - Cosmetic/elective procedures - Dental treatment (unless caused by accident) |
| Exclusions for owner actions | - Claims from neglect or intentional harm - Misuse or non-prescribed medication - Non-compliance with vaccination schedules - Unapproved behavioural/dietary treatments |
| Geographic exclusions | - Treatment outside UK, Isle of Man, Channel Islands - Emergencies abroad not covered |
| Identification exclusions | - Claims denied if pet is unidentifiable/unmicrochipped where legally required - Non-compliant microchip registration |
- Hereditary/congenital disorders
- Conditions within waiting periods
- Breeding, pregnancy, or parturition-related issues
- Age-triggered exclusions (e.g., cruciate ligament injuries in older pets)
- Preventable diseases (if vaccination omitted)
- Cosmetic/elective procedures
- Dental treatment (unless caused by accident)
- Misuse or non-prescribed medication
- Non-compliance with vaccination schedules
- Unapproved behavioural/dietary treatments
- Emergencies abroad not covered
- Non-compliant microchip registration
Tesco pricing
Overall, Tesco positions itself as a very competitive player in the pet insurance market, particularly due to its strong digital-first approach, which allows for reduced administrative costs compared to traditional insurers.
The plans offered tend to be economical yet relatively limited on high-end guarantees, with lower annual reimbursement caps and higher fixed excesses, especially on entry-level products.
Comprehensive covers (like accident and illness) are available but often with exclusions on expensive treatments and specialist care, reflecting a focus on essential needs rather than extensive premium services.
This cost structure enables Tesco to offer below-average premiums while maintaining simple, straightforward coverage options.
Tesco thus mainly appeals to pet owners prioritizing affordability and digital convenience over the most extensive coverage or personalized service.
| Tesco Accident Only | Tesco Standard | Tesco Extra | Tesco Premier | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cat (2-4 years) | £4/mo | £8/mo | £13/mo | £17/mo |
| Cat (7-8 years) | £7/mo | £12/mo | £19/mo | £25/mo |
| Small Dog (general) | £6/mo | £11/mo | £16/mo | £22/mo |
| Small Dog (2-4 years) | £6/mo | £10/mo | £15/mo | £20/mo |
| Large Dog (2-4 years) | £9/mo | £15/mo | £23/mo | £30/mo |
| Senior Dog (7-8 years) | £15/mo | £25/mo | £36/mo | £47/mo |
Tesco promo codes
| Tesco Promo Codes | Details |
|---|---|
| HelloSafe Promo Code | -5% off your quote |
Note: Promo codes are subject to change. For the latest promo codes, please visit our pet insurance comparison page.
How much will I be reimbursed with Tesco?
| Treatment | Average Price (GBP) | Tesco Premium formula (up to £10,000/year)Remboursement: 100% (after excess) – Variable excess from £60 |
|---|---|---|
| Vaccinations | £60 | Rembursed £0 Reste à charge: £60 (vaccinations not covered) |
| Castration/Neutering | £150 | Rembursed £0 Reste à charge: £150 (not covered) |
| Consultation (routine illness) | £50 | Rembursed £0 (not covered for routine/consultations only for illness or injury) Reste à charge: £50 |
| Accident & Emergency Visit | £400 | Rembursed £340 Reste à charge: £60 (variable excess) |
| Surgery after Accident | £1,200 | Rembursed £1,140 Reste à charge: £60 (variable excess) |
Remboursement: 100% (after excess) – Variable excess from £60
Reste à charge: £60 (vaccinations not covered)
Remboursement: 100% (after excess) – Variable excess from £60
Reste à charge: £150 (not covered)
Remboursement: 100% (after excess) – Variable excess from £60
Reste à charge: £50
Remboursement: 100% (after excess) – Variable excess from £60
Reste à charge: £60 (variable excess)
Remboursement: 100% (after excess) – Variable excess from £60
Reste à charge: £60 (variable excess)
Tesco Assistance
Tesco Pet Insurance offers emergency helpline assistance 24/7, which is a significant asset for pet owners facing urgent situations. However, there is no advance payment system similar to Payvet, so policyholders must pay the vet upfront before claiming reimbursement. The absence of a dedicated mobile app limits the digital experience, as all claims and documentation are managed via the web portal, which is functional but lacks advanced features. Tesco does not provide teleconsultation services or access to a network of partner clinics, which can be restrictive for those seeking remote veterinary advice or preferential rates. International coverage is available for up to three months within EU countries, but extended stays or coverage outside these regions are not included.
| Assistance Tesco | Available? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Advance payment | ❌ | No advance payment service. Policyholders pay vets directly and claim costs back afterwards. |
| Payment facilities | ✅ | Monthly direct debit available at no extra cost. Annual payment also possible. |
| Mobile application | ❌ | No dedicated mobile app for policy management or claims. All processes are handled via the online customer portal. |
| Digital claims management | ✅ | Claims are submitted through the web portal. No app but process is straightforward, using uploads and online forms. |
| Veterinary emergency services | ✅ | 24/7 telephone helpline for veterinary emergencies. No teleconsultation or online vet access. |
| Network of clinics and veterinarians | ❌ | No preferential partner clinics or direct billing arrangements available. |
| Cover abroad | ✅ | Covered up to 3 months in EU countries under PETS scheme. No coverage for stays outside this area or longer periods. |
Customer feedback on Tesco
| Review Site | Rating and Number of Reviews |
|---|---|
| Trustpilot | 4.4/5 from over 10,500 reviews |
| Feefo | 4.7/5 from over 3,100 reviews |
| Reviews.io | 4.5/5 from over 900 reviews |
Many customers highlight the competitive pricing of Tesco pet insurance, with several stating that the premiums are affordable and represent good value for the coverage offered. The claims process is often described as straightforward and fast, with users appreciating how easy it is to submit documentation and how quickly reimbursement is issued. There are frequent mentions of clear policy wording and transparency around cover limits, with several clients reporting that terms and exclusions are easy to understand from the outset. The ability to manage the policy digitally, especially through a user-friendly online portal, is regularly cited as a beneficial feature.
Some customers express dissatisfaction with annual premium increases, especially as pets age, with a number of reviews noting that the renewal price can jump significantly year on year. Coverage for pre-existing or chronic conditions is a point of frustration, as many clients have experienced claims being declined on these grounds or have found the exclusions restrictive. A few reviews mention delays in claim settlements or perceive the evidence requests during the claims process to be excessive. There are also occasional complaints about communication difficulties, particularly in reaching a helpful representative during busy times or unexpected administrative errors affecting their policy.
How to contact Tesco?
| Tesco customer service | Details |
|---|---|
| To get a quote or purchase online | To purchase, use our best pet insurance comparison tool, select the Tesco offer of your choice and request a quote. For more information, contact Tesco Pet Insurance at 0345 078 3895 (Monday to Friday, 8am-8pm; Saturday 9am-5pm). Or visit their official website: https://www.tescobank.com/pet-insurance/ |
| To request and track a reimbursement | Submit your claim online via your Tesco Pet Insurance customer area: https://myinsurance.tescobank.com/ Or by email: [email protected] Documents to include: claim form, veterinary invoices, bank statement. Processing time: an average of 5 to 10 working days. Reimbursements are paid directly into your bank account. For any follow-up, call 0345 078 3895. |
| To get an insurance certificate | Log in to your customer area: https://myinsurance.tescobank.com/ to download your certificate. Or contact them by phone at 0345 078 3895. You can also send a written request to: Tesco Pet Insurance, PO Box 255, Wymondham NR18 8DP, United Kingdom. |
| To contact assistance | For urgent assistance (claim, accident), call 0345 078 3895 (for pets), available during opening hours. You can also email [email protected]. Information is also available at https://www.tescobank.com/pet-insurance/ |
| To cancel my contract | Send your cancellation request in writing to: Tesco Pet Insurance, PO Box 255, Wymondham NR18 8DP, United Kingdom. Or by email: [email protected]. Make sure to include your contact details, contract number, and the reason for cancellation. Documents to include: copy of the contract, proof of identity (if applicable). Standard notice period: 14 days after the written request for cancellation. You can also contact them at 0345 078 3895 for more information. |
For more information, contact Tesco Pet Insurance at 0345 078 3895 (Monday to Friday, 8am-8pm; Saturday 9am-5pm).
Or visit their official website: https://www.tescobank.com/pet-insurance/
Or by email: [email protected]
Documents to include: claim form, veterinary invoices, bank statement.
Processing time: an average of 5 to 10 working days.
Reimbursements are paid directly into your bank account. For any follow-up, call 0345 078 3895.
Or contact them by phone at 0345 078 3895.
You can also send a written request to: Tesco Pet Insurance, PO Box 255, Wymondham NR18 8DP, United Kingdom.
You can also email [email protected].
Information is also available at https://www.tescobank.com/pet-insurance/
Or by email: [email protected].
Make sure to include your contact details, contract number, and the reason for cancellation.
Documents to include: copy of the contract, proof of identity (if applicable).
Standard notice period: 14 days after the written request for cancellation.
You can also contact them at 0345 078 3895 for more information.
FAQ
Do I need to pay the vet fees upfront with Tesco?
Tesco Pet Insurance does not currently offer a direct payment or “pay direct” system like some providers. This means you usually pay your vet first and then submit a claim for reimbursement. However, some vets may be able to claim directly from Tesco, but this depends on your vet’s policy. Always check with your veterinary practice beforehand to see what arrangements are possible.
How do I cancel my Tesco pet insurance policy?
You can cancel your Tesco pet insurance policy by contacting their customer service team directly by phone or in writing. Tesco asks for a 14 days' notice if you wish to cancel mid-term. Have your policy number ready, and you may be required to provide written confirmation. If you cancel within the cooling-off period (the first 14 days), you could receive a full refund, provided no claim has been made.
What types of pet insurance policies does Tesco offer?
Tesco offers three levels of pet insurance: Accident Only, Time Limited, and Lifetime cover. Accident Only covers injuries from accidents; Time Limited covers new illnesses and injuries for up to 12 months; Lifetime cover provides ongoing protection for new illnesses and injuries for as long as you renew your policy. This allows you to choose the level of cover that best suits your needs and budget.
Are pre-existing conditions covered by Tesco pet insurance?
Pre-existing conditions are generally not covered by Tesco pet insurance. This means any illness or injury your pet had before your policy started, or within the initial waiting period, is excluded from cover. It’s important to read your policy documents carefully and contact Tesco if you are unsure about what qualifies as a pre-existing condition.
What pets can I insure with Tesco, and are there age limits?
Tesco pet insurance covers both cats and dogs. Dogs must be at least 8 weeks old at the start of the policy, and cats must also be at least 8 weeks old. There is no upper age limit for new cat policies, but dogs must be under 8 years old (or under 5 years old for some breeds) to start a new cover. Existing policies can usually be renewed regardless of your pet’s age.
Do I need to pay the vet fees upfront with Tesco?
Tesco Pet Insurance does not currently offer a direct payment or “pay direct” system like some providers. This means you usually pay your vet first and then submit a claim for reimbursement. However, some vets may be able to claim directly from Tesco, but this depends on your vet’s policy. Always check with your veterinary practice beforehand to see what arrangements are possible.
How do I cancel my Tesco pet insurance policy?
You can cancel your Tesco pet insurance policy by contacting their customer service team directly by phone or in writing. Tesco asks for a 14 days' notice if you wish to cancel mid-term. Have your policy number ready, and you may be required to provide written confirmation. If you cancel within the cooling-off period (the first 14 days), you could receive a full refund, provided no claim has been made.
What types of pet insurance policies does Tesco offer?
Tesco offers three levels of pet insurance: Accident Only, Time Limited, and Lifetime cover. Accident Only covers injuries from accidents; Time Limited covers new illnesses and injuries for up to 12 months; Lifetime cover provides ongoing protection for new illnesses and injuries for as long as you renew your policy. This allows you to choose the level of cover that best suits your needs and budget.
Are pre-existing conditions covered by Tesco pet insurance?
Pre-existing conditions are generally not covered by Tesco pet insurance. This means any illness or injury your pet had before your policy started, or within the initial waiting period, is excluded from cover. It’s important to read your policy documents carefully and contact Tesco if you are unsure about what qualifies as a pre-existing condition.
What pets can I insure with Tesco, and are there age limits?
Tesco pet insurance covers both cats and dogs. Dogs must be at least 8 weeks old at the start of the policy, and cats must also be at least 8 weeks old. There is no upper age limit for new cat policies, but dogs must be under 8 years old (or under 5 years old for some breeds) to start a new cover. Existing policies can usually be renewed regardless of your pet’s age.
