Bow Wow Meow is one of Australia's most popular pet insurers, serving over 200,000 customers since 2008. Underwritten by PetSure and consistently rated among the top pet insurance providers on Product Review, Bow Wow Meow offers cover for dogs and cats with entry accepted up to age 16.
In This Review
What is Bow Wow Meow Pet Insurance?
Bow Wow Meow has been protecting Australian pets since 2008, growing into one of the country's largest and most recognised pet insurance brands. The company is Australian-owned and operated, with all policies underwritten by PetSure, a subsidiary of the Hollard Insurance Group - one of the largest general insurance groups in Australasia.
The brand has built a loyal following among pet owners, accumulating over 200,000 customers across Australia. Bow Wow Meow has been a Product Review Top Rated Pet Insurance provider every year from 2018 through 2026, holding a 4.5-star rating from over 3,193 verified customer reviews on that platform.
One of Bow Wow Meow's standout features is its willingness to insure older pets, accepting new policies for dogs and cats up to 16 years of age. This sets it apart from many competitors who cap entry at 8 or 9 years. The insurer offers three tiers of cover - Accident Only, Essential Illness, and Ultimate Care - allowing owners to select the level of protection that matches their budget and their pet's needs.
While Bow Wow Meow scores highly on customer satisfaction and product flexibility, some owners have noted that premiums can increase notably as pets age. As with all pet insurance, pre-existing conditions are excluded, so early enrolment is generally more beneficial for long-term coverage.
Bow Wow Meow's combination of flexible cover tiers, broad age acceptance and strong customer ratings makes it a commonly chosen option for Australian pet owners looking for reliable pet insurance.
Bow Wow Meow Ratings Across Review Platforms
Disclaimer: Ratings are sourced from public review platforms and awards as of April 2026. Individual experiences may vary. Scores are aggregated for informational purposes only and do not constitute financial advice. Refer to ASIC's MoneySmart website for guidance on choosing insurance.
What Customers Say About Bow Wow Meow
Our golden retriever tore his cruciate ligament and the claim was approved within a week. The reimbursement covered most of the $5,500 vet bill which was a huge relief.
Signed up our 15-year-old cat and was pleasantly surprised that Bow Wow Meow accepted her. Most other insurers said she was too old.
The Routine Care add-on paid for itself within the first year covering vaccinations, flea treatments and a dental check.
Premiums increased by about 30% between our dog turning three and four. I understand costs go up with age but the jump felt steep.
Online claims submission is very straightforward. Upload the invoice, fill in a few details and the money is usually in the account within 10 business days.
Disclaimer: Review highlights are sourced from public review platforms for informational purposes only. Individual experiences may vary and do not represent guaranteed outcomes. This content does not constitute financial advice. Visit ASIC's MoneySmart website (moneysmart.gov.au) for guidance on choosing insurance products.
Bow Wow Meow Pet Insurance Products
Covers vet costs resulting from accidental injuries such as broken bones, snake bites, lacerations and swallowed objects. Does not cover illness.
Covers both accidents and a defined list of common illnesses including cancer, infections and digestive issues. A mid-range option balancing cover and cost.
The highest level of cover, including accidents, comprehensive illness, cruciate ligament conditions and tick paralysis. Designed for owners wanting maximum protection.
Bow Wow Meow Pros and Cons
Bow Wow Meow Pet Insurance Pricing
Bow Wow Meow premiums vary based on your pet's species, breed, age, location and the level of cover selected. The following are estimated premium ranges based on publicly available data.
Disclaimer: All pricing figures are indicative estimates based on publicly available data and general profiles. They are not binding quotes. Your actual premium will depend on your pet's breed, age, location and the cover options you select. Visit bowwowinsurance.com.au for an actual quote or refer to ASIC's MoneySmart website (moneysmart.gov.au) for guidance on comparing insurance.
Dogs generally cost more to insure than cats. Breeds prone to hereditary conditions - such as French Bulldogs, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Ragdoll cats - typically attract higher premiums.
Premiums increase as your pet ages because older animals are statistically more likely to need veterinary treatment. Insuring earlier locks in lower starting premiums.
Veterinary costs vary by region across Australia. Metropolitan areas like Sydney and Melbourne tend to have higher vet fees, which can impact premiums.
Higher cover tiers and lower excess amounts increase your premium. Choosing a higher excess reduces the monthly cost but means you pay more per claim.
Bow Wow Meow offers up to 80% reimbursement. Selecting a lower reimbursement rate can reduce your premium but increases your out-of-pocket costs.
Bow Wow Meow vs Other Pet Insurers
| Feature | Feature | Bow Wow Meow | RSPCA Pet Insurance | Pet Insurance Australia |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 4.5/5 | 4.3/5 | 4.2/5 | |
| Max Entry Age | 16 years | Any age (conditions apply) | 12 years | |
| Max Annual Benefit | $25,000 | $20,000 | $20,000 | |
| Reimbursement Rate | Up to 80% | Up to 80% | Up to 80% | |
| Accident Only Plan | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
| Comprehensive Illness | Yes (Ultimate Care) | Yes | Yes | |
| Routine Care Add-On | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
| No Excess Option | No | Yes | No | |
| Waiting Period (Illness) | 30 days | 30 days | 30 days | |
| Underwriter | PetSure (Hollard) | Pacific International | PetSure (Hollard) |
Disclaimer: Comparison data is based on publicly available information as of April 2026. Features and pricing may change. Verify details directly with each insurer before purchasing. This comparison does not constitute financial advice. Refer to ASIC's MoneySmart website (moneysmart.gov.au) for guidance.
Alternatives to Bow Wow Meow
Four coverage levels with up to 80% reimbursement and a $20,000 annual limit. Offers a no excess option and the first month free on new policies.
Australian-owned pet insurer offering comprehensive cover for dogs and cats. Known for straightforward policies and competitive pricing.
Budget Direct offers competitive pet insurance with three cover levels and strong online tools. Part of Auto & General Group.
Who Is Bow Wow Meow Best For?
With entry accepted up to age 16, Bow Wow Meow is one of the few insurers that will cover senior dogs and cats. This makes it a strong option for owners whose pets are past the typical entry age limits of other providers.
The three clear cover tiers - Accident Only, Essential Illness and Ultimate Care - make it straightforward for first-time buyers to understand what they are getting and choose the right level of protection.
The Accident Only plan starts from around $15 per month, providing affordable baseline protection. Owners can upgrade to higher tiers as their budget allows.
The optional Routine Care add-on covers everyday vet expenses like vaccinations, worming and dental checks, which are typically excluded from standard pet insurance policies.
Our Verdict on Bow Wow Meow Pet Insurance
Bow Wow Meow has earned its reputation as one of Australia's leading pet insurers through consistent customer satisfaction and a thoughtfully tiered product range. The eight consecutive years of Product Review Top Rated status is a strong indicator of reliable service and fair claims handling.
The ability to insure pets up to 16 years of age is a genuine differentiator in a market where most competitors cap entry at 8 or 9 years. Combined with up to 80% reimbursement and annual limits up to $25,000, Bow Wow Meow provides meaningful financial protection against unexpected vet bills.
The main caveat is premium escalation as pets age - a common trait across the pet insurance industry, but one that Bow Wow Meow customers have flagged more than average. Owners should factor in future premium growth when choosing a policy, particularly for breeds known to have higher veterinary costs.
Common questions about Bow Wow Meow Pet Insurance
How we research and rate insurance companies
This review is based on data collected from the following sources, last verified in April 2026:
Our editorial scores (out of 10) are calculated using a weighted methodology that considers:
Disclaimer: Our review methodology is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Scores represent editorial opinion based on publicly available data. Individual experiences may vary. Always read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) before purchasing insurance. For independent guidance on choosing insurance, visit ASIC's MoneySmart website at moneysmart.gov.au.
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