Nationwide is one of the largest and oldest US pet insurers — and the only major carrier that covers exotic pets like birds and reptiles. In this 2026 review we cover Nationwide's plans (including the percentage-of-bill Whole Pet plan), its wellness options, pricing and waiting periods, the pros and cons, and who it's best for.
Nationwide at a glance
| ComparePetCover rating | 3.9 / 5 |
| Annual limits | Varies by plan (e.g. $10,000 – Unlimited on Whole Pet) |
| Deductibles | Annual, multiple options by plan |
| Reimbursement | Whole Pet ~90% of actual costs · some plans use benefit schedules |
| Exotic pets | Covered ✓ (birds, reptiles, small mammals) |
| Waiting period | Typically ~14 days (confirm by plan/state) |
| Best for | Exotic pets, wellness bundling, big-name insurer |
What Nationwide covers
Nationwide's line-up is broader than most, with one genuinely unique feature and a few plan choices to understand:
- Exotic pet coverage — birds, reptiles, and small mammals, which almost no other major insurer offers.
- Whole Pet plan reimburses a percentage of your actual vet bill (accidents, illnesses, hereditary conditions).
- Optional wellness coverage for routine care (vaccines, exams).
- 24/7 vet helpline (vethelpline) included with policies.
The headline is exotic-pet coverage. For cats and dogs, choose the Whole Pet (percentage-of-bill) plan for the most modern coverage; older schedule-based plans reimburse from a fixed benefit list rather than your actual bill.
Plans, limits & pricing
Nationwide pricing varies more than most because of its multiple plan types. Representative 2026 dog-and-cat ranges (Whole Pet):
| Pet | Typical Nationwide premium (/mo) |
|---|---|
| Dogs | $40 – $85 |
| Cats | $20 – $45 |
Exotic-pet premiums are quoted separately and are generally modest. Multi-pet discounts are available. Because Nationwide has several plan types, always confirm whether your quote is the percentage-of-bill Whole Pet plan or a benefit-schedule plan — it changes what you get back.
Pros
- Only major insurer that covers exotic pets (birds, reptiles, small mammals)
- Whole Pet plan reimburses a percentage of your actual bill
- Optional wellness coverage
- 24/7 vet helpline included
- Large, long-established insurer
Cons
- Some older plans use benefit schedules (fixed payout lists), not your actual bill
- Plan structure can be confusing — confirm which you're buying
- Claims processing can be slower than app-first rivals
- Pre-existing conditions excluded (all insurers)
Waiting periods & exclusions
Nationwide's waiting periods are typically around 14 days for accidents and illnesses, with longer waits for certain orthopedic conditions on some plans — exact terms vary by plan and state, so check your quote. Pre-existing conditions are excluded.
How claims & reimbursement work
You file claims online or by app and use any licensed vet. On the Whole Pet plan, reimbursement is a percentage of your actual bill after the deductible; on schedule-based plans, payouts follow a fixed benefit list. It's a pay-first reimbursement model, and members can call the 24/7 vet helpline for advice.
Who Nationwide is best for
Nationwide is the clear choice for exotic-pet owners, and a solid option for households wanting a big-name insurer with wellness bundling. If you want a simple, app-first experience or the fastest claims, a more modern insurer may fit better — and always confirm you're on the percentage-of-bill Whole Pet plan.
How Nationwide compares
Premiums and coverage vary by pet, breed, age and your state. See how Nationwide stacks up in our full provider comparison, or check average pet insurance costs in your state.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Nationwide cover exotic pets?
Yes — Nationwide is the only major US insurer that covers birds, reptiles and small exotic mammals, in addition to dogs and cats.
What is Nationwide's Whole Pet plan?
It's Nationwide's comprehensive plan that reimburses a percentage (around 90%) of your actual vet bill for accidents, illnesses and hereditary conditions — as opposed to older plans that pay from a fixed benefit schedule.
Does Nationwide offer wellness coverage?
Yes — routine/preventive care can be added to cover vaccines, wellness exams and similar, depending on the plan.
Are all Nationwide plans percentage-of-bill?
No — some older plans use a benefit schedule (fixed payout amounts). Confirm whether your quote is the Whole Pet percentage-of-bill plan before buying.
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