2026 MARKET TRENDS
Equine
Key Takeaways
- Major medical underwriting continues to tighten as carriers raise deductibles and narrow eligibility for specific uses
- Customers are seeing fewer major medical coverage options as eligibility standards become more restrictive compared to prior years
- Equine mortality coverage remains steady, with consistent rates and underwriting practices expected in 2026
As we move into 2026, carriers will continue refining major medical eligibility criteria and monitoring disease outbreaks.
Market Conditions
Major medical coverage in the equine insurance market is undergoing meaningful change. Carriers are increasing minimum insured values, raising deductibles and applying stricter eligibility requirements for certain uses. They are also reducing the overall medical benefits and coverages available compared to prior years, reflecting an effort to align major medical coverage with its intended purpose as critical illness protection rather than ongoing health care.
As we move into 2026, carriers will continue refining major medical eligibility criteria and monitoring disease outbreaks, with the potential for future adjustments depending on severity and impact. Mortality coverage availability and underwriting guidelines remain stable, with no significant changes expected. Overall, the market is becoming more disciplined on the medical side while maintaining consistency in mortality coverage.
Claims Trends
Claim frequency and severity in the equine insurance market have remained relatively steady, but prior utilization patterns have contributed to carriers refining medical forms to support more sustainable policy structures.
Impacts & Customer Considerations
Customers should expect tighter terms, reductions in available medical coverages and potentially higher premiums for major medical policies. To adapt to these market trends, consider the following:
Review and update insured values to help maintain appropriate coverage
Understand the limitations of major medical coverage, which is intended for critical illness protection rather than ongoing health care
Understand the limitations of major medical coverage, which is intended for critical illness protection rather than ongoing health care
Stay informed about equine disease trends and take necessary risk mitigation steps during an outbreak
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