Pet Insurance Premium Increases in South Africa
Updated 20 October 2026
The price you are quoted at joining is not necessarily what you will pay later. We have no verified data on how much South African insurers raise premiums, so this page does not give percentages. It explains what to check.
How to read this page. Community Vet does not rate insurers and has not tested any insurer's claims. Figures below are taken from the sources named on this page on the date shown. Insurers change plans, prices and rules, so confirm everything with the insurer, in writing, before you pay.
Why a premium can change
- Your pet's age: risk categories often change as a pet gets older.
- Claims history: some policies may re-rate you after a claim. Ask whether yours does.
- Insurer-wide changes: an insurer may reprice a plan or change its benefits.
- Plan changes: add-ons and cover levels change the price.
Before you accept an increase
- Ask the insurer for the reason in writing and how the increase was calculated.
- Check what changed in the cover, such as limits, sub-limits and excess, not just the price.
- Compare quotes with our quote checklist.
- Before switching, ask the new insurer about waiting periods and pre-existing conditions: waiting periods.
- Consider a lower cover level only if you understand what you would lose.
If you cannot keep up the premium, speak to your vet about payment plans and look at free or low-cost clinics for routine care.