Does pet insurance cover Cytopoint? Cytopoint is an injectable monoclonal antibody therapy that targets and neutralizes the proteins responsible for causing itchiness in dogs with allergic skin conditions.

Unlike the normal steroid treatments, Cytopoint provides longer-lasting relief with fewer side effects. This makes it a preferred option for both veterinarians and pet parents who want a more targeted and effective solution.

Still, while Cytopoint’s benefits are widely acknowledged in veterinary medicine, one common question pet owners ask is: “Does pet insurance cover all these Cytopoint injections?”

Given that Cytopoint injections can range between $60 and $150 per shot and may be required monthly, it is wise to understand whether your pet insurance will help offset the cost or not.

How Does Cytopoint Work?

Cytopoint is a relatively new but powerful veterinary medication used to treat canine atopic dermatitis, which is a chronic skin condition caused by environmental allergens such as pollen, mold, and dust mites.

 Instead of suppressing the immune system like corticosteroids or Apoquel, Cytopoint uses “monoclonal antibody therapy” to block the interleukin-31 (IL-31) protein, which is responsible for sending the “itch” signal to the brain.

Some of the benefits of Cytopoint include:

• Provides itch relief within 24–48 hours
• Safe for long-term use, including in senior dogs and those with other health conditions
• Effects last for 4–8 weeks per injection
• Reduces skin inflammation without suppressing the immune system
• Improves the dog’s quality of life and minimizes self-injury from scratching

Because of its effectiveness and low risk of side effects, Cytopoint is often recommended as part of a long-term allergy management plan.

Does Pet Insurance Cover Cytopoint Injections?

The coverage of Cytopoint by pet insurance largely depends on your provider, the policy your provider offers you, and whether or not your pet’s condition is considered pre-existing. In addition to this, here are some factors influencing what your coverage depends on:

• Policy type: Accident & illness plans will usually cover allergy treatments, while accident-only plans will not.
• Diagnosis: Cytopoint must be prescribed for a covered condition like allergic dermatitis.
• Pre-existing conditions: If your pet showed signs of allergies before enrollment or during the waiting period, the treatment may be excluded.
• Formulary coverage: Some insurers specifically list covered and non-covered medications. Hence, you must always verify that Cytopoint is included.
• Prescription requirement: Cytopoint must be administered by a veterinarian or prescribed as part of ongoing care to qualify for reimbursement.

If covered, insurers usually reimburse a percentage of the treatment cost after the deductible is met, based on your chosen reimbursement level (e.g., 70%, 80%, 90%).

How to Ensure Cytopoint is Covered by Your Policy

If you’re considering Cytopoint or already using it, and want to make sure it’s covered, here are steps you can take to improve your chances:

• Try enrolling your pet early. If your dog is prone to allergies, then you must try to get the insurance early to avoid the “pre-existing condition” label.
• Choose a comprehensive plan and ensure your policy includes illness coverage and doesn’t exclude dermatological conditions.
• Next, check medication lists and eview the insurer’s drug formulary or contact them to confirm Cytopoint is covered.
• Keep detailed medical records of your veterinarian documents like the diagnosis and reason for prescribing Cytopoint.
• Lastly, submit a claim with supporting documentation. Moreover, you can include your vet’s invoice, diagnosis, and a medical history summary to support your claim.

Alternatives to Cytopoint and Their Coverage

While Cytopoint is highly effective, there are other treatments for allergic skin conditions. Some may be covered by pet insurance, while others may not be depending on how they are administered and the specifics of your plan. Other treatment options include:

• Steroids ( like prednisone): This is less expensive, but may have more side effects and it is commonly covered.
• Allergy testing and immunotherapy: May be partially reimbursed depending on your plan.
• Antibiotics or antifungals: This is best for secondary infections caused by scratching or skin lesions.
• Apoquel: An oral medication often used to manage allergic itching. Usually covered under illness policies.
• Prescription shampoos and topical treatments: These treatments are sometimes covered, especially if prescribed by a vet.

Some insurers offer wellness or preventive care add-ons, but these usually do not cover chronic illness treatments like Cytopoint.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Cytopoint Covered By Pet Insurance?

Yes, most pet insurance plans with illness coverage will reimburse Cytopoint injections. This is especially if they are prescribed for a diagnosed condition like atopic dermatitis, and the condition is not pre-existing.

How Much Does Cytopoint Cost Per Injection?

The actually cost depends on the policy and coverage option between you nd your provider. However, the average cost ranges from $60 to $150 per injection, depending on the dog’s weight and the veterinary clinic. Large dogs usually require higher doses, which in turn makes the cost higher.

How Often Will My Dog Need Cytopoint?

Cytopoint is usually administered once every 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the severity of the allergy and your vet’s recommendation.