Insurance for older cats — find cover that doesn't penalise age
Insuring an older cat in New Zealand is more expensive than insuring a kitten — but it's still absolutely worthwhile. Senior cats (7+) face significantly higher health risks, and vet bills for chronic conditions can quickly exceed $10,000–$20,000 over their lifetime.
Compare All ProvidersThe Age Loading Problem — and One Solution
Most NZ insurers apply age-based loading — premiums automatically increase as your cat ages. The one exception is PD Insurance, which does not apply age-based loadings. If you have a senior cat, PD Insurance Deluxe ($20,000 limit) is worth comparing carefully against competitors.
What Conditions Are Common in Senior NZ Cats?
Kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, dental disease, diabetes, arthritis, and cancer are the most common conditions in NZ cats aged 7 and over. Ensure your senior cat's insurance plan explicitly covers chronic and ongoing conditions.
Compare NZ Cat Insurance Providers
Petcover
Canstar Most Satisfied Customers Award 2025 — NZ's top-rated cat insurer
What's Covered
- Up to $14,000 annual benefit limit
- Vet consultation fees included
- Optional: alternative/complementary treatment
- Optional: boarding fees if owner hospitalised
Key Limitations
- Pre-existing conditions excluded
- Dental illness on premium plans only
- Optional extras increase premiums
Southern Cross Pet Insurance
Pet Easy-Claim lets your vet bill Southern Cross directly — no waiting for reimbursement
What's Covered
- PetCare plans with $2,500–$15,000 annual limits
- Pet Easy-Claim: vet bills insurer directly
- Skin conditions, cancer & chronic diseases covered
- Accidental injuries including broken bones
Key Limitations
- $250 annual excess applies
- 20% co-payment on all claims
- Pre-existing conditions not covered
PD Insurance
NZ's only 100% reimbursement insurer — no co-payments, no age loadings on any plan
What's Covered
- True 100% reimbursement — zero co-payments
- No age-based premium loadings
- Monthly payment at no extra cost
- Accident Plan from $10/month
Key Limitations
- Newer insurer — smaller claims team
- Dental illness not on base Accident plan
- No direct vet billing (reimbursement model)