What Supplements Are Not Covered Under Pet Insurance? And Why?

We understand that caring for your pets' health is a top priority for you, as it is for us. We strive to offer comprehensive insurance policies that meet most of your pets' healthcare needs. However, we understand that there may be questions and concerns regarding our policy — particularly around the exclusion of supplements from coverage.

This aims to clarify why supplements are not covered under our pet insurance policy, even when they are recommended by a veterinarian.

Why are supplements not covered?

According to the policy, routine and preventative treatments, including supplements, are not covered. This is consistent with the vast majority of pet and human health insurance policies globally, which usually only cover treatments that are formally registered as drugs or medications.

You may refer and keep a copy of the Policy Wording here.

Why can't supplements be considered as drugs or medications?

Unlike prescription medications, supplements are not regulated in the same rigorous manner. They fall under a different category and are generally considered as over-the-counter (OTC) supplements. Because of this, they do not meet the criteria for medical treatments that are covered by most insurance policies.

Primary vs. Complementary Treatments

Supplements are often used as complementary or supportive treatments rather than primary therapies for specific illnesses or injuries. Our coverage focuses on treatments and medications that serve as the primary means of medical intervention.

Efficacy and Consistency

The effectiveness of supplements can vary widely among individual pets and may not have a consistent and proven track record for treating specific medical conditions. Insurance policies typically aim to cover treatments that have undergone rigorous testing for safety and efficacy.

Cost Considerations

Including supplements in our insurance coverage would likely result in increased premiums. These products can potentially be expensive, and their effectiveness may vary for illnesses, even for the same types or breeds or pets, which would introduce a layer of financial unpredictability. Our aim is to keep premiums affordable for all pet owners.

Lack of Standardisation

Pet supplements are not standardised to the same extent as prescription medications. This inconsistency in the levels of active ingredients across different brands and products makes it difficult for insurance providers to establish consistent coverage criteria.

But my vet recommended these supplements, why is that not sufficient?

While we understand that veterinarians may recommend supplements for your pet's wellbeing, the lack of formal regulatory status as a drug or medication prevents us from including them in our coverage. If the specific supplement that is given to your pet as a form of treatment is one day formally registered and recognised as a drug, then it would likely be claimable* under the policy.

Here is a list of some common supplements that are not covered under our policy, that we see in claims submissions:

1. Vetri DMG (Liquid syrup)
2. Vetri Science -Lysine tablets/chewables
3. Samylin
4. Denamarin
5. Cefasily
6. Coatex capsules
7. Maximus joint booster
8. Maximus Joint
9. Pro-kolin
10. Enterochronic
11. E-lac probiotics
12. Lypex
13. Aminavast
14. Azodyl
15. Cystaid
16. Renal -N
17. Renal-P
18. Pro-Enteric
19. Cystophan
20. Calmurofel
21. Synoquin
22. Atopivet
23. Herpless
24. Vetri Science-Cardio strength
25. Cardio Vet
26. Nutricoat
27. Haemomax
28. Livoferol
29. Methycobal

Do take note that this list is not exhaustive. It is only based on the most common ones that we have seen from your claims submissions thus far.

If this is a topic that you are interested to deep dive into, this is the official Malaysia government website that allows you to search for a registered medication: https://quest3plus.bpfk.gov.my/pmo2/index.php

Do also note that Oyen® does not own or is not affiliated to this website.

Trust Your Veterinarian’s Expertise

We want to emphasize that while our insurance policy may not cover certain items like supplements, we have the utmost trust and confidence in the veterinarians who care for your pets. They are trained professionals who are best equipped to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your pet’s specific needs.

An Important Note

It’s important to recognize the ethical and medical implications of requesting prescription medications over supplements solely for the purpose of insurance claims. We strongly discourage such actions, as it is strictly against the ethics of a veterinary professional and may not be in your pet’s best interest. The focus should always be on what is medically appropriate for the well-being of your pet, rather than what is financially expedient.

We Understand Your Concerns

We understand that this part may be disappointing for those who rely on supplements as part of their pets' healthcare routine. Our primary goal is to ensure that we can provide a service that is both high-quality and consistent, adhering to legal and medical standards.

We hope this FAQ addresses your concerns and questions about why supplements are not included in pet insurance.