Does pet insurance cover GI Stasis?

Yes, GI Stasis (Ileus) is a standard covered illness in all exotic pet policies, provided it is not a pre-existing condition.

How much is a vet visit for a rabbit?

Exotic vet specialists charge 20-50% more than regular vets. A standard exam is $80-$120, while emergency GI Stasis treatment often exceeds $1,500.

Which companies insure rabbits?

In the US, Nationwide is the primary provider for exotic pets. Some newer tech-forward companies are exploring the space, but Nationwide dominates the market.

Is Rabbit Insurance Worth It? Calculating the True Cost of GI Stasis

Rabbits are the third most popular pet in America, yet they are often misunderstood as “low maintenance.” Any experienced bunny owner knows the terrifying speed of GI Stasis.

In this guide, we break down the math: Does the cost of monthly premiums outweigh the risk of a $2,000 emergency bill?

📊 The Economics of Bunny Insurance

Unlike dog insurance, where you might pay $40-$60/month, rabbit insurance is often surprisingly affordable for the coverage it provides.

Feature	Average Cost / Value
Monthly Premium	$18 - $30
Deductible	$100 - $250
Reimbursement	50%, 70%, or 90%
Annual Limit	Typically capped (e.g., $10k)

The “Big Three” Health Risks

Rabbits are prey animals. They hide illness until it is critical. This means when they go to the vet, it is usually an emergency.

1. GI Stasis (The Silent Killer)

What it is: The gut stops moving. Gas builds up. Pain causes shock.
Urgency: Fatal within 24 hours without treatment.
Treatment Cost:
- Outpatient (Fluids + Meds): $300 - $500
- Inpatient (Hospitalization): $1,200 - $2,500+

2. Dental Malocclusion

What it is: Teeth growing continuously and spurring into the cheek or tongue.
Treatment Cost:
- Burring/Trimming (under sedation): $400 - $800
- Frequency: May be needed every 3-6 months.

3. E. Cuniculi

What it is: A parasitic infection attacking the nervous system (head tilt).
Treatment Cost: Long-term medication and nursing care ($1,000+).

🔍 Nationwide: The Main Player

For most US rabbit owners, Nationwide is the go-to option. Their “Whole Pet with Wellness” (if available for exotics) or specific exotic rider is the industry standard.

Pros

Comprehensive: Covers accidents, illnesses, exams, and prescriptions.
Experience: They have the largest database of exotic claims.

Cons

Age Limits: Older rabbits (usually 5+ years) may be denied new coverage.
Pre-existing Conditions: Strict exclusion. If your rabbit has had stasis before, it might be excluded.

💡 Expert Verdict: Is It Worth It?

Dr. Sarah Chen’s Take:

“For rabbits, I define ‘worth it’ by your emergency fund. GI Stasis WILL happen to 20-30% of rabbits. If you cannot drop $1,500 at 2 AM on a Sunday without stress, get the insurance.

The $25/month is effectively an installment plan for that inevitable surgery. Plus, it covers the specialized dental work that many bunnies eventually need.”

✅ Tips for Enrollment

Enroll Young: Get coverage as soon as you adopt.
Wellness Plans: Check if they cover spay/neuter. Rabbit spays can cost $400-$800 due to anesthesia risks.
Find an Exotic Vet: Insurance is useless if you don’t have a vet who takes the insurance or is willing to fill out the forms.