Bow Wow Meow Pet Insurance 2025 Review: Cover, Costs & Key Benefits in Australia
Our expert's opinion on Bow Wow Meow
Bow Wow Meow is a leading pet insurance provider in Australia, offering highly flexible 'Nose-to-Tail' plans that include a choice of annual limits up to $30,000, reimbursement rates from 60% to 90%, and optional annual excesses between $0 and $200, plus broad customisation through Booster Care and Routine Care add-ons. Compared to main competitors, Bow Wow Meow stands out for its high maximum limits, adaptable reimbursement options, extensive dental and specialised therapy inclusions via upgrades, and its pricing strategy targets all budgets without compromising core coverage. It is particularly well-suited to owners of young or middle-aged pets seeking flexibility in cover and high annual limits, especially those prioritising tailored benefits, breeds prone to chronic illness, or who want veterinary flexibility. Administratively, Bow Wow Meow is underwritten by The Hollard Insurance Company and managed by PetSure—Australia's largest pet insurer, with premium volumes exceeding $500 million annually; its Trustpilot score is an impressive 4.7 out of 5 from 545 reviews, reflecting broad customer satisfaction, quick claims turnaround (often within a week), and responsive support, notably through the innovative GapOnly® service.
- ✅Up to $30,000 annual cover limit
- ✅Benefit rates up to 90% reimbursement
- ✅Customisable excess options ($0–$200)
- ✅Optional Booster Care and Routine Care
- ✅Covers congenital, hereditary and chronic conditions
- ✅GapOnly® for fast, paperless in-clinic claims
- ✅High customer satisfaction (4.7/5 Trustpilot, 545 reviews)
- ❌No routine dental unless Booster Care added
- ❌Pre-existing conditions strictly excluded
- ❌Entry age cap: pets must be under 9 years
- ❌Standard waiting periods (illness: 30 days, cruciate: 6 months)
- ❌No cover for working or commercially used pets
Score- ✅Up to $30,000 annual cover limit
- ✅Benefit rates up to 90% reimbursement
- ✅Customisable excess options ($0–$200)
- ✅Optional Booster Care and Routine Care
- ✅Covers congenital, hereditary and chronic conditions
- ✅GapOnly® for fast, paperless in-clinic claims
- ✅High customer satisfaction (4.7/5 Trustpilot, 545 reviews)
Our expert's opinion on Bow Wow Meow
- ✅Up to $30,000 annual cover limit
- ✅Benefit rates up to 90% reimbursement
- ✅Customisable excess options ($0–$200)
- ✅Optional Booster Care and Routine Care
- ✅Covers congenital, hereditary and chronic conditions
- ✅GapOnly® for fast, paperless in-clinic claims
- ✅High customer satisfaction (4.7/5 Trustpilot, 545 reviews)
- ❌No routine dental unless Booster Care added
- ❌Pre-existing conditions strictly excluded
- ❌Entry age cap: pets must be under 9 years
- ❌Standard waiting periods (illness: 30 days, cruciate: 6 months)
- ❌No cover for working or commercially used pets
Score- ✅Up to $30,000 annual cover limit
- ✅Benefit rates up to 90% reimbursement
- ✅Customisable excess options ($0–$200)
- ✅Optional Booster Care and Routine Care
- ✅Covers congenital, hereditary and chronic conditions
- ✅GapOnly® for fast, paperless in-clinic claims
- ✅High customer satisfaction (4.7/5 Trustpilot, 545 reviews)
Why Trust HelloSafe?
At HelloSafe, our pet insurance specialists review the terms and pricing of insurance policies available in Australia each year to deliver reliable and impartial analysis. Thanks to this thorough approach, hundreds of thousands of Australians trust us every month to help guide their most important financial decisions.
Bow Wow Meow Guarantees
Bow Wow Meow distinguishes itself with modular “Nose-to-Tail” plans offering flexible annual limits up to $30,000, benefit percentages up to 90%, and a user-selected excess, plus optional add-ons for dental and special therapies (“Booster Care”) and wellness (“Routine Care”).
Its main strengths are comprehensive cover for accidents, illnesses, hereditary and chronic conditions (if not pre-existing), generous sub-limits, and the market-leading GapOnly® claims service with many vets for instant claim settlement.
However, routine care, dental, and alternative therapies are excluded unless the optional add-ons are selected, and strict limits apply to some benefits (e.g. dental and behaviour covered only under Booster Care, specific waiting periods).
Enrolment is limited to pets under nine years at policy start, which may be a drawback for older adoptees. Notably, Bow Wow Meow does not offer civil liability, loss/theft, or comprehensive death/cremation cover, and no cover is available for pets used for commercial activities.
Compare Bow Wow Meow plans and add-ons to find the best value for your needs.
| Name of coverage | Core Cover (Accident & Illness) | Booster Care (Optional) | Routine Care (Optional) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plan positioning | Flexible, comprehensive modular cover up to $30,000/year | Add-on for dental, behavioural, specialist therapy | Preventive/wellness cost offset (not insurance benefit) |
| Type of coverage (accident, illness, both) | Both accidents and illness, major conditions | Dental (specified), special/alternative therapies, behaviour | Vaccines, desex, microchip, health, teeth, parasite, etc. |
| Animals covered (dogs, cats, other) | Dogs and cats | Same as Core | Same as Core |
| Reimbursement rate (%) | 60% / 70% / 80% / 90% (choose) | As per Core | N/A |
| Annual reimbursement limit | $5,000 / $10,000 / $15,000 / $20,000 / $25,000 / $30,000 | Separate sublimit (e.g. up to $2,000 dental, see cert.) | Annual cap (e.g. $100, see cert.), does not reduce Core |
| Deductible (annual or per claim) | Annual, $0 to $200, as chosen | Follows Core | No excess |
| Age limits for enrollment (for dogs and cats) | Entry | Same as Core | Same as Core |
| Pre-enrollment health questionnaire | No, but vet exam may be requested and pre-existing limits apply | Same as Core | Same as Core |
| Waiting period (illness) | 30 days | 30 days (behaviour/some therapy), 6 months (dental) | 0 days |
| Waiting period (accident) | 2 days | 2 days (accident-related therapies—most), 6 months (cruciate) | 0 days |
| Lifetime coverage once subscribed | ✅, provided continuous renewal and no default | ✅ | ✅ |
| Vet consultations (regular + emergency) | ✅, up to plan limits, any vet in AU | ✅, if related to dental/behaviour/specialised therapy | ❌ |
| Medications | ✅, vet-prescribed, APVMA approved, covered conditions | ✅, as above when part of special therapy | ❌ |
| Hospitalization | ✅ | ✅ (when due to covered dental/therapy) | ❌ |
| Surgery (including anesthesia) | ✅, for covered conditions only | ✅, for covered dental surgeries | ❌ |
| Diagnostic tests (X-ray, MRI, ultrasound, lab tests) | ✅ | ✅, if part of covered therapy | ❌ |
| Dental care (includes scaling and procedures) | ❌ (exception for accidental fracture) | ✅, for specific dental diseases after 6-mo waiting period | ❌ |
| Preventive care package (vaccines, spaying/neutering, ID/microchip) | ❌ (except via add-on, not insurance) | ❌ | ✅ (specific eligible items, up to routine care cap) |
| Alternative medicine (osteopathy, acupuncture, etc.) | ❌ (excluded unless in Booster) | ✅ (e.g. acupuncture, hydro, physio, chiropractic), as therapeutic | ❌ |
| Travel coverage (countries included, duration) | ✅, AU and 30-day trip in NZ/Norfolk Island only, same limits | ✅ | ✅ |
| Civil liability | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Euthanasia | ✅, if essential/vet-advised end of life | ✅ | ❌ |
| Death & cremation coverage | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Theft or loss of pet + search expenses | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Boarding fees (if owner is hospitalized) | ✅, up to $1,000/year, max 30 days | ❌ | ❌ |
Important Policy Information
GapOnly® in-clinic settlement is available at participating vets, letting you only pay your out-of-pocket amount at the visit.
Dental, behaviour, and specalised therapies (physio/hydro/acupuncture/chiro) are only claimable under Booster Care with distinct annual sub-limits.
Routine Care benefit is not insurance and pays as a “wellness wallet” for specified items only; details and caps are in your Certificate of Insurance.
Cruciate ligament injury has a 6-month waiting period, waivable with a specific vet declaration.
Chronic conditions, hereditary/congenital conditions, and bilateral diseases are covered if not pre-existing, subject to normal policy rules.
Bow Wow Meow Exclusions
Bow Wow Meow applies exclusions typical for Australian pet insurance, with strict pre-existing condition rules that extend to bilateral and chronic disorders and cannot be removed, which is more restrictive than some competitors.
Dental conditions, alternative therapies, behavioural issues, and most preventive care are excluded unless specific optional add-ons are selected and waiting periods are met. Other notable exclusions include non-approved medications, prosthetics other than total hip replacement, and all breeding, cosmetic, and commercial use-related treatments.
There is also no cover for neglect, improper care, failure to vaccinate, experimental treatment, or economic loss, and identification (microchip) is not a routine requirement. Unique to Bow Wow Meow is the clear separation of insurance and wellness benefits and the strict, absolute exclusion for chronic pre-existing conditions regardless of duration symptom-free.
| Exclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Medical exclusions |
|
| Preventive/routine care |
|
| Commercial & breeding |
|
| Cosmetic/procedural |
|
| Geographic & identification |
|
| Neglect & owner behaviour |
|
| Economic & consequential |
|
- Pre-existing conditions (inc. bilateral/chronic)
- Waiting periods
- Dental diseases (except with Booster Care)
- Behavioural or alternative therapies (unless with Booster Care)
- Non-approved medications
- Organ transplant/cell therapies (except total hip replacement, necessary transfusion)
- Complications relating to any exclusion
- Routine checks, vaccination, worm/flea prevention, desexing, nail/anal glands
- Food/diet/nutrition, grooming
- Most dental (scaling, cleaning, routine, x-rays, etc.)
- No cover for breeding, pregnancy, birth, neonatal care
- Excludes commercial/working pets (racing, hunting, guarding, etc.)
- Cosmetic, voluntary, or experimental treatments/procedures
- Elective euthanasia, declaw, tail/ear docking, debarking, skull/jaw shaping
- Overseas cover only for NZ/Norfolk (30 days max)—no other international claims
- No cover for time abroad exceeding limits
- Failure to provide care/protection or follow vet/vaccination advice
- Negligence, maltreatment, or deliberate injury to the animal
- Any economic, consequential, or indirect loss
- Any costs related to exclusions above
Bow Wow Meow Prices
Bow Wow Meow positions itself as a mid-range provider with flexible options that make it competitive on price, especially for plans with moderate annual limits and standard reimbursement rates.
Plans with higher reimbursement (up to 90%), generous annual caps (up to $30,000), and a choice of low or zero excess tend to be more expensive than basic competitors but remain below specialist or ultra-premium providers. The ability to tailor add-ons like Booster Care and Routine Care further lets customers match price to coverage needs.
Bow Wow Meow’s fully digital and streamlined claims process (including GapOnly® for real-time in-clinic payments) helps keep operating costs—and thus premiums—lower compared to traditional, paper-based insurers. This makes Bow Wow Meow a balanced choice for pet owners seeking strong value and adaptability, without paying top-tier prices.
Compare Bow Wow Meow’s plans to find the combination of coverage and price that fits your pet and budget.
| Core Cover (Accident & Illness) | Core + Booster Care | Core + Booster + Routine Care | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Young cat (2–4 years) | $24/month | $29/month | $33/month |
| Senior cat (7–8 years) | $42/month | $47/month | $51/month |
| Small breed dog | $31/month | $35/month | $40/month |
| Small breed dog (2–4 years) | $29/month | $34/month | $39/month |
| Large breed dog (2–4 years) | $38/month | $43/month | $48/month |
| Senior dog (7–8 years) | $57/month | $62/month | $68/month |
Bow Wow Meow Promo Codes
| Bow Wow Meow Promo Codes | Details |
|---|---|
| HelloSafe Promo Code | -5% on your quote |
Note: Promo codes are subject to change. For the latest offers, check our comparison of the best pet insurance providers.
What is the Bow Wow Meow reimbursement amount?
With Bow Wow Meow’s highest-tier plan, you’ll typically be reimbursed for up to 90% of eligible vet bills after your selected annual excess is deducted, making unexpected healthcare costs much easier to manage.
Cruciate Ligament Injury Surgery Cost Example
Total vet costs: $3,500 (diagnostic imaging, surgery, post-op meds)
Annual excess to subtract: $100 (selected when you enrolled)
Amount reimbursable: $3,500 – $100 = $3,400
90% of that reimbursed: $3,400 × 90% = $3,060
👉 You receive a reimbursement of $3,060.
ℹ️ The $100 excess only applies once per policy year. Full 90% benefit applies unless you exceed your annual limit.
Hospitalisation for pancreatitis
Total vet costs: $2,000 (IV fluids, tests, hospital care)
Annual excess already paid earlier in the year
Amount reimbursed at 90%: $2,000 × 90% = $1,800
👉 You receive a reimbursement of $1,800.
ℹ️ Once your excess has been paid for the year, it does not reduce future claims until renewal.
Annual vaccination and wellness check with Routine Care add-on
Total vet costs: $180 (consultation, core vaccines)
Routine Care annual reimbursement limit: $100
Amount reimbursed: $100
Out-of-pocket cost: $180 – $100 = $80
👉 You receive a reimbursement of $100 for eligible preventive care costs.
ℹ️ The Routine Care benefit is capped annually and is separate from your core illness/accident cover.
Bow Wow Meow Assistance
| Assistance Bow Wow Meow | Available? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Advance payment | ❌ | No advance payment service like Payvet, Petcard or Carecredit is available. |
| Payment facilities | ❌ | No mention of instalment options; premiums generally paid monthly by direct debit or credit card. |
| Mobile app | ❌ | N.C. |
| Paperless claims process | ✅ | All claims can be managed online via the owner’s Pet Portal. Track claims, submit documents. |
| Emergency vet service | ❌ | No dedicated 24/7 emergency vet phone assistance or teleconsultation included. |
| Vet/clinic partner network | ❌ | N.C. |
| Coverage abroad | ✅ | Insured in NZ and Norfolk Island. Cover valid for up to 60 days per trip under medical supervision. |
Track claims, submit documents.
Cover valid for up to 60 days per trip under medical supervision.
Customer Reviews of Bow Wow Meow
| Review platform | Rating and number of reviews |
|---|---|
| Trustpilot | 4.7 out of 5 stars (545 reviews) |
We analyzed reviews from the sites listed above. On the positive side, customers who subscribed to Bow Wow Meow for their pets often mention:
- A consistently fast and easy claims process, with many policyholders receiving payouts quickly.
- An efficient and helpful customer service team, praised for clear explanations and ongoing follow-up.
- A high level of satisfaction with the GapOnly service, particularly for reducing upfront vet costs at participating clinics.
- Transparent policy wording and simple online account management, making it easy for users to track claims and coverage.
- The company's attentiveness in responding to negative reviews and resolving issues.
On the negative side:
- An occasional delay or inconsistency in response time for more complex claims.
- A perceived lack of clarity around certain policy exclusions and pre-existing condition assessments.
- Reports of confusion for new policyholders regarding waiting periods or coverage for specific treatments.
- Some users note premium increases at renewal that were higher than expected, especially as pets age.
How to Contact Bow Wow Meow
| Bow Wow Meow Customer Service | Details |
|---|---|
| To get a quote or subscribe online | 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 | Claims can be submitted and tracked online via the Pet Portal: https://petportal.bowwowinsurance.com.au/signin Phone: 1800 668 502 (Mon–Fri, 8am–8pm AEST) Email: [email protected] Mail: Locked Bag 9021, Castle Hill, NSW 1765 Required documents: itemised invoice, paid receipt, vet medical history if requested. Payment is by bank transfer; claims usually processed within 2–5 working days. |
| To obtain a certificate of insurance | Phone: 1800 668 502 Email: [email protected] Mail: Locked Bag 9021, Castle Hill, NSW 1765 |
| To contact assistance | Phone: 1800 668 502 (Mon–Fri, 8am–8pm AEST) Email: [email protected] Mail: Locked Bag 9021, Castle Hill, NSW 1765 |
| To cancel my policy | Phone: 1800 668 502 Email: [email protected] Mail: Locked Bag 9021, Castle Hill, NSW 1765 You must provide your policy number and a written request for cancellation. Notice period is usually one policy month; any refund of unused premium will follow policy terms. |
Phone: 1800 668 502 (Mon–Fri, 8am–8pm AEST)
Email: [email protected]
Mail: Locked Bag 9021, Castle Hill, NSW 1765
Required documents: itemised invoice, paid receipt, vet medical history if requested.
Payment is by bank transfer; claims usually processed within 2–5 working days.
Email: [email protected]
Mail: Locked Bag 9021, Castle Hill, NSW 1765
Email: [email protected]
Mail: Locked Bag 9021, Castle Hill, NSW 1765
Email: [email protected]
Mail: Locked Bag 9021, Castle Hill, NSW 1765
You must provide your policy number and a written request for cancellation.
Notice period is usually one policy month; any refund of unused premium will follow policy terms.
FAQ
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with Bow Wow Meow?
With Bow Wow Meow, you usually pay your vet upfront for treatment. If your vet participates in GapOnly®, you only pay your portion (the “gap”) at the time of treatment and Bow Wow Meow settles the rest directly with the clinic. Check with your veterinary clinic beforehand to confirm if GapOnly® is available.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with Bow Wow Meow?
To cancel, contact Bow Wow Meow by phone, email, or post, provide your policy details and a written cancellation request, and allow at least one policy month’s notice. Any unused premium may be refunded according to the terms. You'll receive written confirmation once cancellation is processed.
What does Bow Wow Meow pet insurance cover?
Bow Wow Meow covers accidents and a wide range of illnesses, with annual limits and your choice of benefit percentage and excess. Some optional extras include dental illness and specialised therapies. Pre-existing conditions and most preventive or routine care are not covered, unless you select extra Routine Care.
How quickly are claims processed and paid?
Most claims are paid within 2–5 working days after you submit your claim documents online or by email. You’ll be reimbursed by bank transfer to your nominated account. For in-clinic GapOnly® claims, you pay only the difference at the vet, and the rest is processed on the spot.
Are there age limits or restrictions for older pets?
You can insure your pet if they are under 9 years old at the start of the policy. Once insured, your pet can stay covered for life as long as you renew without a break. Pre-existing conditions are excluded, and waiting periods apply for certain illnesses and treatments.
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with Bow Wow Meow?
With Bow Wow Meow, you usually pay your vet upfront for treatment. If your vet participates in GapOnly®, you only pay your portion (the “gap”) at the time of treatment and Bow Wow Meow settles the rest directly with the clinic. Check with your veterinary clinic beforehand to confirm if GapOnly® is available.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with Bow Wow Meow?
To cancel, contact Bow Wow Meow by phone, email, or post, provide your policy details and a written cancellation request, and allow at least one policy month’s notice. Any unused premium may be refunded according to the terms. You'll receive written confirmation once cancellation is processed.
What does Bow Wow Meow pet insurance cover?
Bow Wow Meow covers accidents and a wide range of illnesses, with annual limits and your choice of benefit percentage and excess. Some optional extras include dental illness and specialised therapies. Pre-existing conditions and most preventive or routine care are not covered, unless you select extra Routine Care.
How quickly are claims processed and paid?
Most claims are paid within 2–5 working days after you submit your claim documents online or by email. You’ll be reimbursed by bank transfer to your nominated account. For in-clinic GapOnly® claims, you pay only the difference at the vet, and the rest is processed on the spot.
Are there age limits or restrictions for older pets?
You can insure your pet if they are under 9 years old at the start of the policy. Once insured, your pet can stay covered for life as long as you renew without a break. Pre-existing conditions are excluded, and waiting periods apply for certain illnesses and treatments.
