Can you insure a Bearded Dragon?

Yes! Bearded Dragons are one of the most commonly insured reptiles. Coverage helps with specific issues like impaction, parasites, and reproductive issues.

Does insurance cover Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD)?

It depends. MBD is often caused by poor husbandry (lighting/diet). Some insurers may deny it as 'preventable' or 'negligence' if care standards weren't met, while others cover it if diagnosed after the policy starts.

How much is reptile insurance?

Typically very affordable, often ranging from $9 to $18 per month for a comprehensive plan.

Lizard Insurance 101: Coverage for Bearded Dragons, Geckos & Iguanas

Reptile keeping has exploded in popularity, with Bearded Dragons and Leopard Geckos becoming household staples. But as reptile medicine advances, so does the cost of care.

Modern vets can perform MRI scans, tumor removals, and advanced orthopedic surgery on lizards. The question is: can you afford it?

🦎 Common Lizard Health Risks & Costs

1. Impaction

Ingesting substrate (sand/gravel) that blocks the digestive tract.

Treatment: Enemas/Laxatives ($200) or Surgery ($1,200+).
Insurance Note: Covered as an “Accident” (Foreign Body Ingestion).

2. Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD)

Lack of Calcium/UVB causing soft bones and fractures.

Treatment: Long-term calcium therapy, splinting fractures, hospitalization.
Cost: $500 - $1,500.
Warning: Ensure your husbandry (UVB bulbs) is perfect. Insurers may ask for photos of your enclosure during a claim to rule out negligence.

3. Reproductive Issues (Dystocia)

Egg-binding in female lizards (even without a male).

Treatment: Oxytocin shots or Surgery (Ovariosalpingectomy).
Cost: Emergency spay surgery for an iguana or beardie can cost $800 - $1,800.

4. Tail Rot / Infections

Fungal or bacterial infections requiring systemic antibiotics or amputation.

Cost: $300 - $600.

🏆 Best Insurance for Lizards

Nationwide is currently the only major US carrier offering a dedicated “Avian & Exotic” plan that includes reptiles.

What’s Covered?

Accidental injuries (burns from heat lamps, falls).
Illnesses (parasites, respiratory infections).
Diagnostic testing (X-rays, bloodwork, fecal tests).

What’s NOT Covered?

Breeding: Costs related to intentional breeding.
Pre-existing conditions: Bought a lizard with MBD? It won’t be covered.
Negligence: If you didn’t provide heat/UVB, claims may be denied.

💡 Is It Worth It for a $50 Gecko?

It’s a common objection: “My gecko only cost $40. Why pay $12/month for insurance?”

The Answer: You insure the life, not the replacement cost. If your 5-year-old Leopard Gecko gets an eye infection, are you willing to pay $400 to treat it? Or would you euthanize?

If you would pay to treat, insurance saves you money.
If you view the pet as “disposable” (we hope not!), then insurance isn’t for you.