Just like people, pets get sick. And health-care costs for pets can be high. The question of whether you should spring for pet insurance depends on a number of factors.

Buy it if » You have a puppy or kitten, because these babies are more likely to have accidents.

Skip it if » Your pet no longer is a youngster. The cost of insurance doubles as the pet gets older.

Buy it if » You will do anything to keep your pet alive. Modern medicine can save pets that in the past would have been euthanized, but you'll pay a lot for it.

Skip it if » Your pet is susceptible to genetic problems because of breed. Many insurance plans won't cover hereditary illnesses, or they cover them only for a large fee.

Buy it if » Your pet comes from a shelter. You can get a short-term policy that will cover problems such as viruses or kennel cough brought home from the shelter.

Skip it if » Your pet has a pre-existing medical condition.

Source » Good Housekeeping Research Institute