The instructions said “2 units,” but in the rush of the morning, I glanced at the syringe and realized I had just injected 5 units. The cat, an elderly tabby, went into hypoglycemic shock within an hour. I rushed him to the ER, where they stabilized him with a dextrose IV, but the vet bill is $2,200 and the owner is screaming about “Gross Negligence.”
Key Takeaways
- This is “Professional Liability” (Malpractice): It’s not just an accident; it’s an error in your professional service.
- General Liability Might Deny It: GL covers bodily injury, but some policies distinguish between “accidents” (tripping) and “professional errors” (wrong meds). You need a policy that covers both.
- Documentation Saves You: If the owner’s handwriting was messy and looked like “5 units,” you have a defense. If it was clear and you messed up, you are liable.
- Vet Expense Reimbursement: Your Bailee coverage should kick in here to pay the $2,200.
The “Why” (The Trap): The Competency Clause
In 2026, insurance applications often ask: “Do you administer medications?”
If you clicked “No” to get a cheaper rate, and then you gave insulin, your claim is denied. This is “Material Misrepresentation.”
You must ensure your policy specifically endorses “Pet Sitting” including “medication administration.”
[IMAGE: Photo of an insulin syringe next to a handwritten medication log]
The Investigation: I Called Them
I checked with carriers about “Medication Errors.”
1. Pet Sitters Associates
- The Verdict: They are very good about this. They understand sitters give meds.
- The Requirement: You usually need to check a box adding coverage for “Specialized Care” if it involves injections.
2. PCI
- The Verdict: Covered under General Liability/Bailee, provided you were acting within the scope of your instructions.
3. Vet Malpractice Insurance?
- Clarification: You are not a vet. You don’t need “Medical Malpractice” insurance (which is for doctors). You need “Professional Liability” (Errors & Omissions) for pet sitters.
Comparison Table
| Carrier | Med Administration Covered? | Proof Required? | Cost Impact |
| PCI | Yes (Standard) | Written Instructions helps | None |
| BIC | Yes | Written Instructions | None |
| Gig Apps | Vague / Case-by-case | High | N/A |
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Immediate Vet Care: This is life or death. Go.
- Admit the Error to the Vet: Tell them exactly how much you gave and when. This saves the cat’s life.
- Report to Insurance: “I made a professional error in medication dosage.”
- Review Your Policy Application: Did you disclose that you give injections? If yes, you are fine.
FAQ
Can I get sued for killing the cat?
Yes. If the cat dies, the owner can sue for the value of the cat and potentially “loss of companionship” depending on state law (some states in 2026 are expanding these rights).
What if the owner gave me the wrong info?
Then it is their fault. Keep the note/text! “Give 5 units” written by the owner absolves you of liability.
Do I need certification to give shots?
Legally, usually no (for a sitter). But having a “Pet First Aid/CPR” certificate helps with insurance and proves you aren’t just some random person.