Keeping cats is widespread in Germany. Yet many cat owners do not know that they can be held liable for damage their cat causes. Although cats are often seen as harmless compared with dogs, they can certainly cause property damage or even injury. Cats are generally covered by private liability insurance (Privathaftpflichtversicherung), which protects against these unexpected financial risks and makes sure a mishap does not become a lasting financial burden.
Unlike dog owners, cat owners in Germany are not legally required to hold liability insurance. Even so, a cat can do considerable damage: it climbs onto someone else's car and leaves deep scratches in the paint, it startles someone on the stairs and causes a fall with injuries, or it damages valuable items belonging to neighbours. In such cases the owner can be held fully liable for the damage. German law shows no mercy here.
Cats are generally covered by private liability insurance; check your policy before taking out additional cover. Such insurance makes particular sense for owners of outdoor cats, which roam over a larger area and so have more chances to cause damage.
Cover through private liability insurance is for all cat owners who want to protect themselves against financial liability for damage caused by their animal. It is especially worth considering for outdoor cats, as they have more contact with the outside world and so carry a higher potential for damage. Indoor cats can also cause damage in certain situations.
When choosing the right insurance, cat owners should look at the sum insured, the territorial scope and possible exclusions. Some providers offer cat liability as a standalone policy, others as an add-on to private liability insurance (Privathaftpflichtversicherung). Either can make sense, depending on your existing cover.
We help you find the right solution for your personal situation. That way you and your cat can go about daily life without worry.
Cat owner liability benefits
Note: cats and small animals are usually covered by private liability insurance. A separate pet owner liability policy is generally not needed for cats.
Allianz pet owner liability insurance covers dogs and horses. Cats and other small animals (rabbits, birds and so on) are typically already included in private liability insurance. A separate cat owner liability policy is therefore not available as a standalone product from most insurers.
Recommendation: check your existing private liability insurance. In most cases damage caused by cats is already covered there.
