Pumpkin takes a different approach from most insurers: one comprehensive plan, a single high 90% reimbursement rate, and a 14-day waiting period for every condition including orthopedic. In this 2026 review we break down what Pumpkin includes, its limits and pricing, waiting periods, pros and cons, and who it's best for.
Pumpkin at a glance
| ComparePetCover rating | 4.0 / 5 |
| Annual limits | Dogs $10,000 / $20,000 / Unlimited · Cats $7,000 / $15,000 / Unlimited |
| Deductibles | $100 · $250 · $500 · $1,000 |
| Reimbursement | 90% (fixed) |
| Exam fees | Included ✓ |
| Waiting period | 14 days for all conditions (incl. orthopedic) |
| Best for | Comprehensive coverage, fast orthopedic protection |
What Pumpkin covers
Pumpkin sells a single, deliberately generous accident-and-illness plan. What's included in the base — where others charge extra — is the headline:
- Vet exam fees included.
- Dental illness, behavioral issues and alternative therapies included.
- Hereditary and congenital conditions covered.
- Optional Preventive Essentials add-on for routine care (vaccines, parasite testing, wellness exam).
Because there's only one plan and one (high) reimbursement rate, you're always buying generous coverage — great for protection, less so if you wanted a cheaper, lighter option.
Plans, limits & pricing
Pumpkin's premiums sit above average, a direct result of its single 90% reimbursement design. Representative 2026 averages:
| Pet | Typical Pumpkin premium (/mo) |
|---|---|
| Dogs | $55 – $95 |
| Cats | $28 – $46 |
There's no lower-reimbursement tier to trim the premium, so Pumpkin is rarely the cheapest — you're paying for the generous, all-in-one coverage and the fast 14-day orthopedic wait.
Pros
- Very broad base: exam fees, dental illness, behavioral & alternative therapies included
- 90% reimbursement standard
- 14-day wait for all conditions, including orthopedic (competitors often 6 months)
- No upper age limit
- PumpkinNow can pay eligible $500+ emergency claims in ~15 minutes
Cons
- Only a 90% tier — premiums run above average with no cheaper option
- No mobile app
- No accident-only plan
- Knee/ligament conditions are excluded permanently once flagged
Waiting periods & exclusions
Pumpkin applies a flat 14-day waiting period to all conditions — including hip dysplasia and knee injuries — where many competitors impose a 6-month orthopedic wait. Preventive add-on coverage has no waiting period. Pre-existing conditions are excluded.
How claims & reimbursement work
You submit claims online (there's no mobile app), and Pumpkin reimburses 90% after your deductible. Its PumpkinNow feature can pay eligible emergency claims of $500 or more in as little as 15 minutes. Use any licensed vet; it's a pay-first reimbursement model.
Who Pumpkin is best for
Pumpkin suits owners who want the most inclusive base coverage and the fastest orthopedic protection, and who don't mind paying more for it. If you want a cheaper, lighter plan or a slick app, look elsewhere.
How Pumpkin compares
Premiums and coverage vary by pet, breed, age and your state. See how Pumpkin stacks up in our full provider comparison, or check average pet insurance costs in your state.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Pumpkin cover exam fees?
Yes — vet exam fees are included in Pumpkin's base plan, along with dental illness, behavioral issues and alternative therapies.
What is Pumpkin's reimbursement rate?
A fixed 90% — there's no lower tier. That generous payout is why premiums run above average.
Does Pumpkin make you wait 6 months for orthopedic coverage?
No — Pumpkin uses a 14-day waiting period for all conditions, including orthopedic, which is faster than many competitors.
Does Pumpkin have an age limit?
No upper age limit for enrollment, so senior pets are welcome.
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