Snakes are fascinating, low-maintenance pets for many reptile lovers—but that doesn’t mean they’re immune to health problems. From respiratory infections to parasites or injury, caring for a sick snake can get expensive fast. Pet snake insurance is a niche but growing option for exotic pet owners who want peace of mind when it comes to their reptile’s care.

🐍 What is Pet Snake Insurance?

Pet snake insurance is a policy designed to help cover veterinary costs related to illnesses, accidents, or routine care for your snake. It’s considered a type of exotic pet insurance, and not all companies offer it, but a few specialized providers do.

💡 Why Snake Owners Should Consider Insurance

1. Vet Costs for Exotics Are High
Reptile vets (a.k.a. herp vets) are specialists, and visits often cost significantly more than standard dog or cat appointments.

2. Snakes Hide Symptoms
By the time you notice something is wrong, it’s often serious—and requires urgent (and expensive) care.

3. Limited Access to Exotic Vets
Since fewer clinics treat snakes, treatment may involve travel, emergency services, and costly diagnostic tests.

4. Covers Accidents and Environment-Related Issues
Burns from heating pads, injuries from enclosures, or feeding problems can all result in unexpected bills.

🏥 What Pet Snake Insurance May Cover

Depending on the insurer and plan:

  • Accidental Injuries: Broken ribs, constriction injuries, enclosure accidents.

  • Illnesses: Respiratory infections, stomatitis (mouth rot), mites, internal parasites, skin infections.

  • Diagnostics: X-rays, stool testing, bloodwork.

  • Medications: Antibiotics, anti-parasitic drugs.

  • Hospitalization: Emergency treatment, hydration, assisted feeding.

  • Routine Care (optional): Fecal exams, wellness checks.

Note: Some insurers will also help with behavioral issues or appetite-related concerns if they’re tied to health problems.

❌ What Snake Insurance Typically Doesn’t Cover

  • Pre-existing conditions

  • Elective or cosmetic procedures

  • Improper care/environment-related problems

  • Breeding or egg care

  • Unlicensed vet care

  • Home remedies or over-the-counter treatments

💸 Cost of Snake Insurance

Since it’s a specialty service, pet snake insurance tends to cost slightly more than cat/dog insurance despite the snake’s smaller size.

  • Typical range: $15–$50/month

  • Factors affecting cost:

    • Type of snake (e.g., Ball python vs. Boa constrictor)

    • Age and health history

    • Geographic location

    • Vet access in your area

    • Policy coverage level

✅ How to Choose the Right Insurance

  1. Find an Exotic Pet Insurer
    Most mainstream pet insurance providers do not cover reptiles. Look for companies like:

    • Nationwide (has an Avian & Exotic Pet Plan)

    • Pet Assure (discount plan, not traditional insurance)

    • ASPCA Pet Insurance (some exotic policies via partners)

  2. Check Vet Eligibility
    Make sure the policy works with your exotic vet.

  3. Look for Coverage Specific to Reptiles
    Avoid generic plans that don’t account for snake-specific health issues.

  4. Read the Fine Print
    Exotic insurance often has longer waiting periods and stricter exclusions.

🐾 Final Thoughts

While it’s not as common or widely available as cat or dog insurance, pet snake insurance is a smart option if you want to avoid surprise vet bills and ensure your snake gets proper care when needed. These amazing reptiles may not demand much day to day, but when something goes wrong, you’ll be glad you planned ahead.

If your pet snake is part of your world, protecting its health should be too. 🐍💚