No matter the cause of cataracts, dog cataract surgery is often an option to help your dog's sight return to near normal. It's up to a veterinary ophthalmologist to determine whether the cataract is operable and provide a prognosis of the sight returning once the cataract is removed. Because there are so many variables involved in cataract surgery, it is difficult to pinpoint or even ballpark the cost of the surgery, but the following information can give you an idea of what you can expect.
Canine Cataract Surgery Variable Costs
When estimating the cost of canine cataract surgery, the figure can fluctuate tremendously based upon several factors.
- Anesthesia costs fluctuate based upon the size of the dog. The larger the dog, the higher the cost of the anesthesia will be.
- Costs will vary based upon whether the surgery will include one or both eyes. The veterinary ophthalmologist can tell you whether having both eyes done at the same time is an option for your dog.
- Medications and eyedrops are required both pre-surgical and post-surgical procedure. Depending upon your dog's condition, the medications and drops can vary.
- Costs of lab work done before the surgery can also vary based upon which tests the veterinary ophthalmologist determines are necessary for your dog.
- Lens implants are commonly used in canine cataract surgery. The cost of the lenses can fluctuate depending upon whether one, two or none are used and depending upon the type of lens used. The lens implants allow your dog to see sharp images close up after the surgery.
- While there are a couple of post-surgical examinations included in the total cost of the surgery, additional exams may be required, depending upon how your dog heals and if there are complications that must be addressed.
- Costs may also vary depending upon which technology your veterinary ophthalmologist uses. New technology is being developed all the time, and the newer equipment may add to the cost of the surgery.
- Most cataract surgeries do not require an overnight hospital stay, but if your dog does require a stay, it will impact the cost of the surgery.
Talk to Your Veterinary Ophthalmologist
If you suspect your dog has developed cataracts, or your regular veterinarian has diagnosed cataracts, the best route is to take your dog to a veterinary ophthalmologist for an examination. A veterinary ophthalmologist can determine if the cataract has developed to the point that it can be surgically removed, if your dog is a good candidate for the surgery and most importantly, he can provide you with an estimate to have the surgery done. While cataract surgery can be expensive, many of these eye specialists are willing to work out a payment plan so your dog can have the procedure done.
While canine cataract surgery can be expensive, many dogs benefit from it. Veterinary insurance can help with these expenses, but you need to check your policy to ensure cataract surgery is covered. Once the surgery is done, both you and your dog can enjoy moving back to a more active life.