Pet ownership in Norway is a cherished part of life, with many households treating their dogs, cats, and other animals as family members. According to Statistics Norway, approximately 31% of Norwegian households owned a pet in 2023, with dogs and cats being the most popular. However, the rising cost of veterinary care—estimated at NOK 5,000 to NOK 15,000 annually for routine and emergency expenses—has made pet insurance an essential consideration for many pet owners. In 2025, finding the best pet insurance companies in Norway is crucial to ensure your furry companions receive the care they need without straining your finances.
Why Pet Insurance Matters in Norway
Veterinary care costs in Norway have increased steadily over the past decade, driven by advancements in medical technology and the growing demand for specialized treatments. A single emergency vet visit can cost between NOK 3,000 and NOK 10,000, while chronic conditions like diabetes or hip dysplasia can lead to expenses exceeding NOK 50,000 over a pet’s lifetime. Pet insurance acts as a financial safety net, covering unexpected expenses such as accidents, illnesses, surgeries, and sometimes even preventive care.
Despite its benefits, pet insurance adoption in Norway remains relatively low compared to other Scandinavian countries like Sweden, where over 80% of pets are insured. In Norway, only about 15% of pet owners have insurance, according to industry estimates. This gap highlights the need for greater awareness about the best pet insurance companies in Norway and the value they offer. Whether you’re in Oslo, Bergen, or a rural area, the right pet insurance plan can provide peace of mind, ensuring your pet gets the best care without financial stress.
How We Selected the Best Pet Insurance Companies in Norway for 2025
To compile this list, we evaluated pet insurance providers available in Norway based on several key criteria, drawing from industry data, customer reviews, and expert analyses:
- Coverage Options: We prioritized companies offering comprehensive accident and illness coverage, with additional points for wellness plans, alternative therapies, and coverage for hereditary conditions.
- Cost and Value: We compared average premiums, deductibles, reimbursement rates, and annual limits to identify plans that balance affordability with robust coverage.
- Customer Experience: We considered customer reviews, claims processing speed, and the availability of features like 24/7 support and direct vet payments.
- Flexibility and Customization: Companies that allow policyholders to tailor deductibles, reimbursement rates, and coverage limits scored higher.
- Availability: We focused on providers available to Norwegian residents, noting any regional restrictions or requirements like ID-marking for high-value pets.
Full List of Best Pet Insurance Companies in Norway for 2025
Below is the full list of best pet insurance companies in Norway for 2025, featuring top providers that cater to a variety of needs and budgets. Each company is evaluated based on its offerings, pricing, and customer feedback, with insights tailored for Norwegian pet owners.
1. If P&C Insurance
Overview: If P&C Insurance is one of the leading pet insurance providers in Norway, offering tailored policies for dogs and other pets. With a strong presence in the Nordic region, If provides comprehensive coverage and is known for its customer-centric approach.
Coverage:
- Accident and Illness: Covers veterinary expenses and medications for injuries, illnesses, surgeries, and diagnostics.
- Specialized Coverage: Offers compensation for working dogs (e.g., guide or hunting dogs) if they lose the ability to perform their tasks.
- Sum Insured: Reflects the value of your pet, with a cap of NOK 15,000 unless the pet is ID-marked, which is mandatory for higher sums.
- Additional Options: Includes coverage for emergency care and medications, ensuring your pet gets the best treatment.
Cost:
- Average monthly premiums range from NOK 250 to NOK 500 for dogs, depending on breed, age, and coverage level.
- Deductibles are customizable, typically starting at NOK 1,000, allowing you to adjust premiums to fit your budget.
Pros:
- Comprehensive coverage for veterinary expenses.
- Specialized coverage for working dogs, a unique feature in Norway.
- Flexible policies that can be maintained throughout a pet’s life.
- Available to non-Norwegian citizens living in Norway with a registered address.
Cons:
- Higher premiums for older pets or high-value breeds.
- No wellness plan for routine care like vaccinations.
Customer Feedback: If P&C Insurance is praised for its straightforward claims process and reliable coverage, particularly for working dogs. Some customers note that premiums can increase significantly as pets age, a common concern in the industry.
2. Agria Dyreforsikring
Overview: Agria Dyreforsikring, a subsidiary of the Länsförsäkringar Alliance, specializes in animal insurance and is a trusted name in Norway. With a focus on flexibility, Agria offers policies for dogs, cats, horses, and small animals, making it a versatile choice for pet owners.
Coverage:
- Veterinary Insurance: Covers expenses for vet visits due to illness or injury, including diagnostics, treatments, and surgeries.
- Life Insurance: Provides compensation if your pet dies or needs to be euthanized due to illness or injury, an optional add-on for extra security.
- Customizable Plans: Allows you to choose a policy that suits your pet’s needs and your budget, with options for additional coverage like alternative therapies.
Cost:
- Average monthly premiums are around NOK 300 for dogs and NOK 200 for cats, based on standard coverage.
- Deductibles vary depending on the plan, typically ranging from NOK 1,000 to NOK 3,000.
Pros:
- Flexible coverage options for a variety of pets.
- Life insurance add-on provides extra peace of mind.
- Available to anyone with a Norwegian-registered address, regardless of citizenship.
- Strong customer support with dedicated insurance agents.
Cons:
- Limited coverage for pre-existing conditions, a standard exclusion in the industry.
- No 24/7 telehealth support, which some competitors offer.
Customer Feedback: Agria is well-regarded for its customizable plans and excellent customer service, with many pet owners appreciating the ability to tailor coverage. Some users wish for more digital features, such as an app for claims processing.
3. Gjensidige Forsikring
Overview: Gjensidige Forsikring is one of Norway’s largest insurance companies, offering pet insurance as part of its extensive portfolio. Known for its financial stability and customer-focused policies, Gjensidige is a popular choice for Norwegian pet owners.
Coverage:
- Accident and Illness: Covers vet fees for accidents, illnesses, surgeries, and medications, with options to include dental care.
- Hereditary Conditions: Includes coverage for breed-specific conditions like hip dysplasia, which is common in larger breeds like German Shepherds.
- Additional Benefits: Offers coverage for emergency boarding if you’re hospitalized and compensation for lost pets.
Cost:
- Average premiums are approximately NOK 350 for dogs and NOK 220 for cats, with variations based on age and breed.
- Deductibles range from NOK 1,500 to NOK 4,000, with higher deductibles lowering monthly premiums.
Pros:
- Comprehensive coverage, including hereditary conditions.
- Additional benefits like emergency boarding and lost pet support.
- Competitive premiums for younger pets.
- Strong financial backing, ensuring reliability.
Cons:
- Higher deductibles for older pets, which can increase out-of-pocket costs.
- Limited coverage for alternative therapies unless added as an extra.
Customer Feedback: Gjensidige is praised for its reliable coverage and quick claims processing, with many customers appreciating the inclusion of hereditary conditions. Some note that the lack of a wellness plan is a drawback for those seeking routine care coverage.
4. DNB Forsikring
Overview: DNB Forsikring, part of Norway’s largest financial group, offers pet insurance with a focus on affordability and simplicity. It’s an excellent option for pet owners looking for straightforward coverage without complex add-ons.
Coverage:
- Accident and Illness: Covers vet fees for accidents, illnesses, diagnostics, and treatments, with a focus on essential care.
- Annual Limit: Up to NOK 30,000 per year, which renews annually as long as you remain enrolled.
- Basic Add-Ons: Includes coverage for emergency care and medications, with optional life insurance.
Cost:
- Average premiums are around NOK 280 for dogs and NOK 180 for cats, making DNB one of the more affordable options.
- Deductibles are typically NOK 2,000, with options to adjust for lower premiums.
Pros:
- Affordable premiums compared to competitors.
- Simple, straightforward coverage plans.
- High annual limit of NOK 30,000.
- Easy claims process with online submission.
Cons:
- Limited coverage for alternative therapies and wellness care.
- No 24/7 customer support, which may be inconvenient for emergencies.
Customer Feedback: DNB Forsikring is appreciated for its affordability and ease of use, with many customers highlighting the simplicity of its plans. Some users wish for more comprehensive coverage options, particularly for older pets.
5. Storebrand Forsikring
Overview: Storebrand Forsikring is a well-established Norwegian insurance provider offering pet insurance with a focus on sustainability and customer satisfaction. It’s a good choice for pet owners who value ethical business practices.
Coverage:
- Accident and Illness: Covers vet fees for accidents, illnesses, surgeries, and diagnostics, with options to include dental care.
- Hereditary Conditions: Includes coverage for breed-specific conditions, a key feature for owners of purebred pets.
- Sustainability Focus: Storebrand supports conservation initiatives, appealing to environmentally conscious pet owners.
Cost:
- Average premiums are approximately NOK 320 for dogs and NOK 210 for cats, depending on the plan.
- Deductibles range from NOK 1,500 to NOK 3,500, with flexibility to adjust.
Pros:
- Coverage for hereditary conditions, which is essential for certain breeds.
- Commitment to sustainability, aligning with Norwegian values.
- Competitive premiums for comprehensive coverage.
- Easy-to-understand policies with transparent terms.
Cons:
- No direct vet payment option, requiring reimbursement.
- Limited add-ons for wellness or alternative therapies.
Customer Feedback: Storebrand is praised for its ethical approach and reliable coverage, with many customers appreciating the inclusion of hereditary conditions. Some note that the reimbursement process can take longer than expected.
How to Choose the Best Pet Insurance Company in Norway for Your Needs
Selecting the right pet insurance provider in Norway depends on your pet’s specific needs, your budget, and your preferences. Here are key factors to consider:
- Coverage Needs: If your pet is prone to hereditary conditions (e.g., hip dysplasia in Norwegian Elkhounds), choose a provider like Gjensidige or Storebrand that covers these conditions.
- Budget: For affordable options, DNB Forsikring and Agria offer competitive premiums, while If P&C Insurance provides more comprehensive coverage at a higher cost.
- Age of Pet: Most providers, like If P&C Insurance, require enrollment before age 7, but policies can be maintained for life once enrolled.
- Claims Process: Look for companies with easy claims processes, such as DNB’s online submission or Gjensidige’s quick processing.
- Additional Benefits: If you value extras like emergency boarding (Gjensidige) or life insurance (Agria), prioritize providers offering these features.
Average Cost of Pet Insurance in Norway in 2025
The average cost of pet insurance in Norway in 2025 is approximately NOK 300 per month for dogs and NOK 200 per month for cats, based on standard coverage with a NOK 2,000 deductible and 80% reimbursement. However, costs vary widely based on several factors:
- Breed: Larger breeds or those prone to health issues (e.g., Norwegian Buhunds) cost more to insure.
- Age: Older pets have higher premiums due to increased health risks, with some providers increasing rates after age 8.
- Location: Urban areas like Oslo and Bergen have higher vet costs, which can increase premiums.
- Coverage Level: Plans with higher annual limits or lower deductibles are more expensive.
For example, If P&C Insurance’s comprehensive plans can cost up to NOK 500 per month for a dog, while DNB’s basic plans average NOK 280.
Is Pet Insurance Worth It in Norway?
Pet insurance is a worthwhile investment for most Norwegian pet owners, particularly given the high cost of veterinary care. A single surgery for a cruciate ligament rupture can cost NOK 20,000–NOK 30,000, and chronic conditions like diabetes can lead to expenses exceeding NOK 50,000 over a pet’s lifetime. With pet insurance, you can avoid making difficult decisions about your pet’s care due to financial constraints.
However, pet insurance may not be necessary if you have significant savings to cover emergency vet bills or if your pet is young and healthy with minimal risk of serious health issues. It’s also worth noting that pet insurance typically does not cover pre-existing conditions, so enrolling your pet early is key to maximizing coverage.
Tips for Norwegian Pet Owners: Getting the Most Out of Pet Insurance
To ensure you get the best value from your pet insurance policy, consider the following tips:
- Enroll Early: Insure your pet when they’re young and healthy to avoid exclusions for pre-existing conditions, a common practice among providers like If P&C Insurance and Agria.
- Compare Quotes: Get quotes from at least three providers to find the best balance of coverage and cost. For example, DNB offers affordability, while Gjensidige provides more comprehensive coverage.
- Understand Exclusions: Read the fine print to know what’s not covered, such as pre-existing conditions or routine care unless specified.
- Maintain Vaccinations: Keep your pet’s vaccinations and boosters up to date to minimize the risk of illnesses that could lead to higher premiums.
- Pay Annually: Some providers offer discounts for paying premiums annually instead of monthly, which can also help avoid interest charges.
Cultural Insights: Pet Ownership in Norway
Norway has a deep-rooted culture of pet ownership, with dogs like the Norwegian Elkhound and Norwegian Buhund being national treasures. Pets are often seen as integral family members, and Norwegians value their well-being, as evidenced by the country’s strict animal welfare laws. The Norwegian Animal Welfare Act ensures that pets are treated with respect, with regulations on everything from housing to medical care.
This cultural emphasis on animal welfare makes pet insurance particularly relevant, as it aligns with the Norwegian commitment to providing the best care for pets. Additionally, Norway’s outdoor lifestyle—think hiking in the fjords or skiing in the mountains—means pets are often active, increasing the risk of accidents and the need for insurance coverage.
The best pet insurance companies in Norway for 2025 offer a range of options to suit different budgets and needs, from If P&C Insurance’s comprehensive coverage to DNB Forsikring’s budget-friendly plans. By choosing a provider that aligns with your pet’s health needs and your financial situation, you can ensure your furry friend receives the best care without the burden of unexpected vet bills. Review the full list of best pet insurance companies in Norway, compare quotes, and secure a plan today to give your pet the protection they deserve in 2025.
