When your pet struggles with fear, anxiety, reactivity, or other behavioural challenges, getting the right professional support can make a world of difference. But many guardians wonder: Does pet insurance in South Africa cover behaviour consultations?
The answer is sometimes, and it depends heavily on the insurer and the plan you choose.
Below is a clear guide to the major South African pet insurance providers that offer behavioural therapy or consultation cover, plus what pet parents should know before signing up.
Why Behaviour Cover Matters
Behaviour challenges can be rooted in stress, fear, trauma, medical issues, or environmental factors. Getting professional help early – from a qualified behaviourist or veterinary behaviourist – often leads to better outcomes.
But behavioural care can involve:
consultations
follow-up sessions
vet referrals
medical investigations
long-term management
So having insurance that contributes to these costs can reduce stress and allow you to support your pet properly.
1. Hollard Pet Insurance
Behaviour Cover: Yes, on select plans
Hollard includes behavioural treatment under certain illness and treatment benefits, provided the issue is diagnosed and treated by a veterinarian.
Visit Hollard:
https://www.hollard.co.za/personal/pet-insurance
Key notes:
Behavioural treatment must be vet-recommended.
Cover is subject to plan type, limits, and waiting periods.
Pre-existing conditions are excluded.
2. OUTsurance Pet Insurance
Behaviour Cover: Yes, on higher-tier plans
OUTsurance’s Pet-Act-OUT benefit covers puppy classes and some behavioural treatments when a veterinarian recommends them — especially on the Executive Plan.
Visit OUTsurance:
https://www.outsurance.co.za/pet-insurance/
Key notes:
Not automatically included in all plans.
Vet referral is typically required.
Good option for dogs needing early training or behaviour support.
3. MediPet Pet Insurance
Behaviour Cover: Yes, depending on plan
MediPet is known for offering generous illness and chronic care benefits, and some plans include behavioural therapy cover or reimburse behaviour consultations recommended by a vet.
Visit MediPet:
https://medipet.co.za/
Key notes:
Behaviour therapy limits vary by plan.
Excellent for pets needing ongoing care.
Direct vet payments available on many claims.
Does Pet Insurance Always Pay for Behaviour Consultations?
Not always – so it’s important to check the fine print. Most insurers require:
a veterinary diagnosis or written vet referral
proof that the behaviour has a medical or welfare component
that the condition is not pre-existing
that the session is with a qualified professional
For example, if a vet refers you to a behaviourist for anxiety, reactivity, or fear-based concerns, many insurers may reimburse part of the consultation under illness or treatment benefits.
Tips for Getting Behaviour Costs Covered
To increase the chances of successful reimbursement:
Start with a vet consult
Ask your veterinarian whether the behaviour has a medical component.Request a written referral
Most insurers require this.Keep all reports and invoices
Behaviourists usually provide session reports that insurers appreciate.Choose a plan with illness + chronic care cover
Basic accident-only plans rarely offer behavioural benefits.
Looking for help from a qualified animal behaviourist?
At Gentled Animals, we’re here to help you and your pet live harmoniously, with understanding and kindness at the heart of every solution.