Nationwide is introducing updates to its pet insurance program in California, combining pricing refinements with structural changes to underwriting and rating.

The filing, submitted on March 25, 2026, reflects a neutral overall rate impact despite an indicated decrease of 7.3%, applying to approximately 30,324 policyholders and $20.2 million in written premium.

At the core of the update is the introduction of a Generalized Additive Model (GAM), signaling a shift toward more advanced, data-driven pricing. The company is also adding gender and tenure as rating variables, positioning tenure in particular as a proxy for evolving risk exposure in pet insurance, where preexisting conditions are excluded and claims emerge over time.

Distribution remains broad, with the product available through associations, affiliations, pet clubs, and direct-to-consumer channels, supporting Nationwide’s multi-channel strategy in pet insurance.

The changes are expected to take effect on August 27, 2026, for both new and renewal business, pending regulatory approval.