Bupa Pet Insurance 2025: Comprehensive Review for Australian Pet Owners
Our expert's opinion on Bupa
Bupa Pet Insurance delivers a robust offering in Australia, with two main plans—Standard and Ultimate—both providing up to 80% reimbursement and generous annual limits of $12,000 or $20,000, as well as flexible excess options of $0, $100, or $200 per condition per year. Compared to major rivals, Bupa stands out for strong routine care add-ons, responsive digital claims, and integration with GapOnly®, although its pricing is mid-to-upper range without clear budget-tier entry. Its policy fits best for owners of young or middle-aged pets seeking reliable illness and accidental coverage, optional wellness and dental extras, or for multi-pet households wanting member discounts and robust annual limits. Bupa Australia, part of the global Bupa group, is a major health insurer with solid market presence and financial stability; on ProductReview.com.au it holds a 3.4/5 rating from 173 reviews, and online claims are usually processed swiftly if documentation is clear, often within days—although experiences vary. The combination of high maximum limits, digital-first services, optional extras for wellness and dental, and a multi-pet/member discount makes Bupa one of the most feature-comprehensive mainstream pet insurers available, though premium increases and some claims frustrations have been reported.
- ✅Annual benefit up to $20,000
- ✅80% reimbursement, flexible excess options
- ✅Routine care and major dental add-ons
- ✅24/7 online vet support via myPetPass
- ✅GapOnly® paperless claiming at partner clinics
- ✅Multi-pet and Bupa Health member discounts
- ✅Online portal for flexible digital claims
- ❌Premiums may increase after claims or renewal
- ❌Routine and dental not included by default
- ❌Strict pre-existing condition exclusions
- ❌Every claim subject to excess if chosen
- ❌Some negative feedback on claim payouts/sub-limits
Our expert's opinion on Bupa
- ✅Annual benefit up to $20,000
- ✅80% reimbursement, flexible excess options
- ✅Routine care and major dental add-ons
- ✅24/7 online vet support via myPetPass
- ✅GapOnly® paperless claiming at partner clinics
- ✅Multi-pet and Bupa Health member discounts
- ✅Online portal for flexible digital claims
- ❌Premiums may increase after claims or renewal
- ❌Routine and dental not included by default
- ❌Strict pre-existing condition exclusions
- ❌Every claim subject to excess if chosen
- ❌Some negative feedback on claim payouts/sub-limits
Score- ✅Annual benefit up to $20,000
- ✅80% reimbursement, flexible excess options
- ✅Routine care and major dental add-ons
- ✅24/7 online vet support via myPetPass
- ✅GapOnly® paperless claiming at partner clinics
- ✅Multi-pet and Bupa Health member discounts
- ✅Online portal for flexible digital claims
Why Trust HelloSafe?
At HelloSafe, our pet insurance experts thoroughly review the terms and pricing of insurance policies available in the Australian market every year, ensuring you receive reliable and unbiased analysis. Thanks to this rigorous approach, thousands of Australians trust us each month to help guide them through their most important financial decisions.
Bupa Guarantees
Bupa Pet Insurance offers Standard and Ultimate Cover plans for dogs and cats, both providing 80% reimbursement and flexible annual benefit limits ($12,000 for Standard, $20,000 for Ultimate) with a choice of $0, $100, or $200 excess per condition per year.
Both plans cover accidental injury and illness, with optional add-ons for major dental (after a six-month wait), routine care, and, for Ultimate only, alternative treatments like physio and acupuncture.
Bupa stands out with its strong digital claims experience (GapOnly® and online portal), 24/7 access to virtual vet support (myPetPass), and broader illness coverage than many competitors, but preventive and dental care are only included if paid extra as options.
Strengths include multi-pet and Bupa Health member discounts and a generous pre-existing condition review policy for temporary conditions after an 18-month symptom-free period.
However, core exclusions are significant: no liability, theft/loss, or death benefits, persistent exclusions for pre-existing/chronic/hereditary ailments, strict dental claim requirements, and out-of-pocket costs for non-insured add-ons may add up for comprehensive care seekers.
| Name of coverage | Standard Cover | Ultimate Cover |
|---|---|---|
| Plan positioning | Mid-level, 80% reimbursement, $12,000 cap, optional add-ons | Premium, 80% reimbursement, $20,000 cap, most add-ons available |
| Type of coverage | Accidental injury and illness | Accidental injury and illness |
| Animals covered | Dogs and cats | Dogs and cats |
| Reimbursement rate (%) | 80% | 80% |
| Annual reimbursement limit | $12,000 | $20,000 |
| Deductible (annual or per claim) | Per condition/year: $0, $100, or $200 (chosen) | Per condition/year: $0, $100, or $200 (chosen) |
| Age limits for enrollment (for dogs/cats) | 8 weeks – under 9 years at signup | 8 weeks – under 9 years at signup |
| Pre-enrollment health questionnaire | N.C. | N.C. |
| Waiting period (illness) | 30 days | 30 days |
| Waiting period (accident) | None | None |
| Lifetime coverage once subscribed | ✅ | ✅ |
| Vet consultations (regular + emergency) | ✅ (sub-limit applies) | ✅ (sub-limit applies) |
| Medications | ✅ (for covered conditions) | ✅ (for covered conditions) |
| Hospitalization | ✅ (for covered conditions) | ✅ (for covered conditions) |
| Surgery (including anesthesia) | ✅ (for covered conditions) | ✅ (for covered conditions) |
| Diagnostic tests (X-ray, MRI, etc.) | ✅ (for covered conditions) | ✅ (for covered conditions) |
| Dental care (includes scaling/procedures) | Optional major dental add-on after wait, max benefit | Optional major dental add-on after wait, max benefit |
| Preventive care package | Optional routine care add-on | Optional routine care add-on |
| Alternative medicine (osteopathy, etc.) | ❌ | Optional add-on (subject to conditions/limits) |
| Travel coverage (countries, duration) | New Zealand only, up to 60 days | New Zealand only, up to 60 days |
| Civil liability | ❌ | ❌ |
| Euthanasia | ✅ (essential, vet recommended) | ✅ (essential, vet recommended) |
| Death & cremation coverage | Optional through routine care add-on | Optional through routine care add-on |
| Theft or loss of pet + search expenses | ❌ | ❌ |
| Boarding fees (if owner is hospitalised) | ✅ (sub-limit applies) | ✅ (sub-limit applies) |
Compare pet insurance plans now to find the best balance of benefits and price for your needs.
Key Features and Considerations for Pet Insurance
GapOnly® facilitates on-the-spot claims at participating vets, allowing you to pay only the gap amount. 24/7 virtual vet support (myPetPass) is included at all coverage levels.
Major dental and alternative treatment coverage options are available as add-ons, subject to a six-month waiting period and annual vet dental checks.
Discounts may apply for multi-pet (5%) and Bupa members (10%).
Pre-existing and bilateral conditions, along with many common non-medical scenarios, are typically excluded from coverage.
Bupa Exclusions
Bupa Pet Insurance excludes a wide range of incidents and conditions that are fairly standard in the market, but a few details are notable: pre-existing, bilateral, and chronic conditions are systematically excluded, with only temporary conditions potentially reviewable after an 18-month symptom-free period.
Dental disease is excluded by default—unless the optional Major Dental add-on is purchased and the waiting period is completed—with only restricted benefits for specific dental treatments.
Alternative therapies (such as acupuncture and physiotherapy) and preventive care are not covered on most plans unless acquired as Ultimate plan add-ons, while non-essential procedures (cosmetic, elective, and grooming) are never covered.
Specialist and experimental procedures, advanced prosthetics, and many indirect losses or economic damages are also consistently excluded.
Unlike a few competitors, theft, loss, routine death, and civil liability are excluded, and cover is geographically restricted to Australia and, for short periods, New Zealand.
| Exclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Medical exclusions | • Pre-existing, bilateral, or chronic conditions • Hereditary/congenital conditions with pre-existing signs • Any condition showing symptoms in waiting period • Most dental disease without Major Dental add-on • Behavioural issues (e.g., anxiety, training, socialisation) • Alternative/experimental therapy (unless add-on on Ultimate) |
| Preventive/routine care | • Vaccinations, worming, desexing, microchipping, supplements, routine checks (unless via paid add-on) • Food and dietary supplements • Routine dental cleaning (except where included by add-on) |
| Procedural exclusions | • Cosmetic and elective procedures (tail docking, declawing, devocalisation, nail clipping) • Bathing, grooming, pet accessories • Non-essential euthanasia • Genetic, chromosome, or experimental procedures • Most prosthetics except specified joint/hip prostheses |
| Geographic/scope exclusions | • Outside Australia and New Zealand (with NZ limited to 60 days per trip) • Services from non-registered vets in Australia |
| Financial/external losses | • Consequential or indirect loss (economic loss, loss of enjoyment) • Burial, cremation, and autopsy expenses (unless via add-on) • Theft, loss, or search for pet • Civil liability/external damages |
| Responsibility/risk | • Negligence, gross negligence, neglect, or risky/illegal activities (fighting, hunting, biosecurity emergencies) |
• Hereditary/congenital conditions with pre-existing signs
• Any condition showing symptoms in waiting period
• Most dental disease without Major Dental add-on
• Behavioural issues (e.g., anxiety, training, socialisation)
• Alternative/experimental therapy (unless add-on on Ultimate)
• Food and dietary supplements
• Routine dental cleaning (except where included by add-on)
• Bathing, grooming, pet accessories
• Non-essential euthanasia
• Genetic, chromosome, or experimental procedures
• Most prosthetics except specified joint/hip prostheses
• Services from non-registered vets in Australia
• Burial, cremation, and autopsy expenses (unless via add-on)
• Theft, loss, or search for pet
• Civil liability/external damages
Bupa Prices
Bupa Pet Insurance occupies a mid-range to slightly high pricing position in the Australian market, with premiums reflecting comprehensive coverage, generous annual limits, and add-on flexibility for dental care and alternative treatments.
The 80% reimbursement rate, $0–$200 per-condition excess options, and access to 24/7 online vet support deliver strong value, but premium levels rise for older or larger pets and where major add-ons are chosen.
While Bupa is not a pure digital-only player, its efficient claims portal, use of GapOnly® at participating clinics, and multi-pet/member discounts somewhat balance administrative costs and can reduce out-of-pocket expenses for eligible claims.
Its plans are attractive for families seeking broad cover with reputable customer service, though pricing is above accident-only or basic competitors with limited benefits.
Overall, Bupa is best described as mid-range in price but competitive in breadth of coverage, especially for owners prioritising flexibility and major veterinary expense protection.
Compare Bupa pet insurance plans below to choose the most suitable combination of coverage and price for your pet.
| Standard Cover | Ultimate Cover | |
|---|---|---|
| Young cat (2–4 years) | $29/month | $37/month |
| Senior cat (7–8 years) | $38/month | $50/month |
| Small breed dog (2–4 years) | $40/month | $54/month |
| Large breed dog (2–4 years) | $57/month | $78/month |
| Senior dog (7–8 years) | $82/month | $110/month |
Bupa Promo Codes
| Bupa Promo Codes | Details |
|---|---|
| Multi-pet Discount | 5% on additional pets |
| Member Discount | 10% for Bupa Health Insurance members |
| 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 Bupa reimbursement can I expect?
With Bupa Ultimate Cover, you pay your vet first and then submit your claim for up to 80% reimbursement of eligible expenses, after your selected excess (deductible) is deducted—helping reduce your out-of-pocket costs for major veterinary bills.
Cruciate Ligament Surgery (Dog)
Total vet costs: $3,900 (specialist consultation, surgery, anaesthesia, hospitalisation, post-op visits)
Deductible amount to subtract: $100 (chosen per-condition excess)
Amount reimbursable after deductible: $3,900 – $100 = $3,800
Reimbursement at 80%: $3,800 × 80% = $3,040
👉 You receive a reimbursement of $3,040.
Remaining out-of-pocket: $860.
ℹ️ The $100 excess applies per condition, per policy year. Once paid for this condition, only the reimbursement rate applies for future claims on it that year.nt surgery in dogs.
Treatment for Pancreatitis in Cats
Treatment for pancreatitis in cats typically involves supportive care to manage symptoms and allow the pancreas to heal. This may include fluid therapy, pain management, anti-nausea medication, and nutritional support.
Total vet costs: $1,100 (consultation, blood tests, ultrasound, IV and hospital stay, prescription medication)
Deductible amount to subtract: $100 (per-condition excess not yet used for this condition)
Amount reimbursable after deductible: $1,100 – $100 = $1,000
Reimbursement at 80%: $1,000 × 80% = $800
👉 You receive a reimbursement of $800.
Remaining out-of-pocket: $300.
ℹ️ The $100 excess is only paid once per condition, per year. Remaining annual policy limit after this claim: $20,000 – $800 = $19,200.
Annual vaccination and health check
Annual vaccination and health check (with Routine Care add-on)
Total vet costs: $150 (consult + core vaccination)
Routine Care claim limit: $100 per year (optional add-on, capped benefit)
Amount reimbursed: $100 (Routine Care reimbursement only, no excess applies)
👉 You receive a reimbursement of $100.
Remaining out-of-pocket: $50.
ℹ️ Routine Care is not insurance: annual limits apply and only listed items (check-up, vaccine, desexing, microchip etc.) are claimable if you purchased the add-on.
Bupa Assistance
Bupa offers a notable 24/7 online vet teleconsultation service via myPetPass, giving policyholders real-time access to veterinary advice for urgent health questions and minor emergencies.
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The GapOnly® feature at participating clinics allows customers to pay only the gap at the vet, streamlining out-of-pocket expenses and claim processing.
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Assistance is accessible by phone and digital claims portal, though Bupa lacks a dedicated mobile app for direct policy management; users must access services through a web portal.
However, Bupa does not offer advance payment solutions or third-party credit at veterinary clinics, so policyholders are expected to settle costs upfront if not using GapOnly®.
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Overseas cover is limited to travel in New Zealand for up to 60 days per trip, and there is no formal network restricting your choice of vet in Australia.
| Assistance Bupa | Available? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Advance payment | ❌ | No option to defer or finance the vet invoice (no Payvet, Petcard, CareCredit etc.). |
| Payment facilities | ❌ | No 0%-fee instalment plans for bill payment. Premiums may be paid monthly or annually, but clinic bills: N.C. |
| Mobile app | ❌ | No dedicated Bupa pet insurance mobile app (App Store, Google Play); service via online web portal only. |
| Paperless claims process | ✅ | Digital claims submission online; in-clinic GapOnly® electronic settlement at some vet partners. |
| Emergency vet service | ✅ | 24/7 online teleconsultations (myPetPass), included for all policyholders; virtual only, not telephone triage. |
| Vet/clinic partner network | ✅ | GapOnly® service at participating clinics, but all licensed vets in Australia eligible for claims. |
| Coverage abroad | ✅ | Cover for treatment in New Zealand up to 60 days per trip. No cover for other destinations; claims settled in AUD. |
Customer Reviews of Bupa
| Review platform | Rating and number of reviews |
|---|---|
| ProductReview.com.au | 3.4/5 (173 reviews) |
We analyzed reviews from the site listed above. On the positive side, customers who subscribed to Bupa for their pets often mention:
- ✅ A helpful and professional customer service team, with representatives named for their support.
- ✅ A fast digital claims process that some find efficient and straightforward.
- ✅ The satisfaction of long-term policyholders who appreciate Bupa’s continued service over many years.
On the negative side:
- ❌ A significant and sometimes unexpected increase in premiums, particularly after claims are made.
- ❌ A claims process that may result in partial reimbursements, with some claims denied due to sub-limits or categorisation issues.
- ❌ An annual excess (often $200 per claim) that reduces payouts substantially, especially for smaller claims.
- ❌ Occasional difficulty with cancelling a policy or accessing account details.
- ❌ A strict policy on pre-existing conditions leading to claim denials.
- ❌ Concerns over the effectiveness of virtual vet assessments and frustration with exclusions.
How to contact Bupa
| Bupa 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 | Submit claims via the Bupa Pet Insurance Claims Portal: petportal.bupapetinsurance.com.au Required documents: paid invoices, itemised vet receipts, clinic notes Claims may also be submitted by email: [email protected] Average processing: 1–5 business days Reimbursement: paid by direct deposit to your nominated bank account. |
| To obtain a certificate of insurance | Request by email: [email protected] Or phone: 134135 (Mon–Fri, 8am–8pm AEST, excl. public holidays) You may also access downloadable certificates via the online claims portal. |
| To contact assistance | General and claims assistance: 134135 (Mon–Fri, 8am–8pm AEST, excl. public holidays) Email: [email protected] Mail: Bupa Pet Insurance, Locked Bag 9021, Castle Hill NSW 1765 For 24/7 online vet advice, access via myPetPass™ from the member portal. |
| To cancel my policy | Call 134135 (Mon–Fri, 8am–8pm AEST, excl. public holidays) or email [email protected] State your policy number, insured pet, and account holder details No fixed notice period, but cancellation takes effect from date of request Outstanding premiums must be settled Written confirmation recommended; postal address as above if needed. |
Required documents: paid invoices, itemised vet receipts, clinic notes
Claims may also be submitted by email: [email protected]
Average processing: 1–5 business days
Reimbursement: paid by direct deposit to your nominated bank account.
Or phone: 134135 (Mon–Fri, 8am–8pm AEST, excl. public holidays)
You may also access downloadable certificates via the online claims portal.
Email: [email protected]
Mail: Bupa Pet Insurance, Locked Bag 9021, Castle Hill NSW 1765
For 24/7 online vet advice, access via myPetPass™ from the member portal.
State your policy number, insured pet, and account holder details
No fixed notice period, but cancellation takes effect from date of request
Outstanding premiums must be settled
Written confirmation recommended; postal address as above if needed.
FAQ
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with Bupa?
Bupa offers GapOnly® at participating veterinary clinics, which lets you pay only the out-of-pocket gap at the time of your visit. If your vet is not a GapOnly® partner, you must pay the full bill upfront and claim reimbursement later from Bupa. Always check in advance whether your clinic supports GapOnly®.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with Bupa?
To cancel your Bupa pet insurance policy, contact Bupa by phone or email with your policy number and pet details. There is no fixed notice period: your policy can usually be cancelled effective the day you request it. Make sure all outstanding premiums are settled. Written confirmation (email or letter) is recommended for record-keeping.
What is covered under a standard Bupa pet insurance plan?
Bupa Standard Cover includes treatment for accidents and illnesses (with some waiting periods), consultations, diagnostics, surgery, emergency boarding, essential euthanasia, and limited overseas cover for travel to New Zealand. Optional add-ons are available for major dental and routine care. Sub-limits and exclusions may apply, so always read your policy documents carefully.
Are there waiting periods before my pet is covered?
Yes, there are waiting periods for some conditions: 30 days for illness cover, 6 months for cruciate ligament and major dental (unless a vet waiver is supplied for cruciate ligament), and no waiting for specified accidental injuries. You will find the specific waiting periods in your Certificate of Insurance and the Product Disclosure Statement.
How does the annual excess and reimbursement work?
Bupa offers a choice of annual excess ($0, $100, or $200 per condition, per year) that you pay before reimbursements apply. After your excess is met, Bupa reimburses 80% of eligible vet costs up to your annual benefit limit. Sub-limits for particular treatments may apply, so your final payout may be affected by these caps.
Are pre-existing and hereditary conditions covered?
Pre-existing conditions—including hereditary and congenital conditions that show symptoms before your policy starts or during the waiting period—are not covered. However, some temporary conditions may be covered again if your pet has been symptom-free and without treatment for at least 18 months. Permanent exclusions persist for chronic or recurring conditions.
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with Bupa?
Bupa offers GapOnly® at participating veterinary clinics, which lets you pay only the out-of-pocket gap at the time of your visit. If your vet is not a GapOnly® partner, you must pay the full bill upfront and claim reimbursement later from Bupa. Always check in advance whether your clinic supports GapOnly®.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with Bupa?
To cancel your Bupa pet insurance policy, contact Bupa by phone or email with your policy number and pet details. There is no fixed notice period: your policy can usually be cancelled effective the day you request it. Make sure all outstanding premiums are settled. Written confirmation (email or letter) is recommended for record-keeping.
What is covered under a standard Bupa pet insurance plan?
Bupa Standard Cover includes treatment for accidents and illnesses (with some waiting periods), consultations, diagnostics, surgery, emergency boarding, essential euthanasia, and limited overseas cover for travel to New Zealand. Optional add-ons are available for major dental and routine care. Sub-limits and exclusions may apply, so always read your policy documents carefully.
Are there waiting periods before my pet is covered?
Yes, there are waiting periods for some conditions: 30 days for illness cover, 6 months for cruciate ligament and major dental (unless a vet waiver is supplied for cruciate ligament), and no waiting for specified accidental injuries. You will find the specific waiting periods in your Certificate of Insurance and the Product Disclosure Statement.
How does the annual excess and reimbursement work?
Bupa offers a choice of annual excess ($0, $100, or $200 per condition, per year) that you pay before reimbursements apply. After your excess is met, Bupa reimburses 80% of eligible vet costs up to your annual benefit limit. Sub-limits for particular treatments may apply, so your final payout may be affected by these caps.
Are pre-existing and hereditary conditions covered?
Pre-existing conditions—including hereditary and congenital conditions that show symptoms before your policy starts or during the waiting period—are not covered. However, some temporary conditions may be covered again if your pet has been symptom-free and without treatment for at least 18 months. Permanent exclusions persist for chronic or recurring conditions.
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