Cataracts in dogs can lead to impaired vision or blindness if left untreated, prompting many pet owners to consider cataract surgery. This procedure can restore vision and improve the quality of life for affected dogs.
However, the cost of cataract surgery for dogs can vary significantly based on various factors, including the severity of the condition, the chosen veterinary clinic, geographic location, and the dog’s overall health.
Key Takeaways:
- Cataract surgery for dogs can cost up to $5000.
- Pet insurance may cover some of the costs through reimbursement.
Cataract Surgery Cost for Dogs
The cost of cataract surgery for dogs can range from $2,600 to $5,000. The full payment is going to depend on the following.
Before the Surgery
Your pet will be examined first before any surgery is done. This will be done by your vet. Aside from an eye test, the vet might request to do blood exams as well. There might also be other tests to determine if your dog is fit for surgery.
If the tests say your dog is ready, the next step is to take your pet to a pet ophthalmologist. usually this will be referred to by your vet. The ophthalmologist will conduct additional eye examinations along with other health tests. These can cost anywhere from $210 to more than $1100.
Do Both Eyes Need Surgery?
The expenses will be determined by the extent of surgery required. It also depends on whether you will agree to put an IOL (intraocular lens) or not. Most specialists will suggest this because it brings clarity your pet’s vision. Minus an IOL, your pet will still have vision, but they will be far sighted. Meaning, objects nearby will look blurred.
Surgical operation on a single eye is cheaper compared to two. This is understandable as only one IOL is needed. The cost will vary, but in general, two eyes or two IOLs cost at least $4000.
If two eyes with a single IOL, it will be $3500. If both eyes are operated on without putting any IOL, the cost is $3300 or so. For a single eye and one IOL, it is $3000. If it is a single eye with no IOL, about $2400.
After the Surgery
Depending on what happens after surgery, your pet may need to stay at the clinic overnight. When you get them home, they have to wear a cone or collar so they won’t be able to scratch the operated on eye.
Your doctor will also prescribe eye drops and other medications. How long this will be varies. It may be weeks or a lifetime depending on their condition.
How Pet Insurance Works with Dog Cataract Surgery
Let’s consider a scenario where a dog owner, Alex, has pet insurance that covers cataract surgery. Alex’s dog, Max, an eight-year-old Labrador Retriever, has recently developed cataracts in both eyes, causing diminished vision and hindering his daily activities. Upon consulting a veterinary specialist, it is recommended that Max undergo cataract surgery to restore his eyesight.
Alex, who planned ahead by having pet insurance in place, contacts their insurance provider to understand the coverage details for such a procedure. After confirming that cataract surgery is covered under the policy, they proceed with scheduling the surgery.
Following a successful surgery, Alex collects all relevant documentation, including medical records, surgical notes, and invoices totaling the expenses associated with Max’s cataract removal.
They diligently submit the claim to their pet insurance provider. After the claim is validated and processed, the insurer approves the reimbursement, covering a significant portion of the eligible surgery costs.
What is Cataract in Dogs?
Cataracts refer to the clouding of the lens in the eye, causing visual impairment. In dogs, cataracts can be either inherited or acquired. Acquired cataracts may develop due to aging, trauma, diabetes mellitus, inflammation, or exposure to toxins. While some cataracts might start small and progress slowly, others can rapidly lead to complete loss of vision.
Causes
Inherited: Certain dog breeds are more predisposed to hereditary cataracts, such as Poodles, Bichon Frises, Boston Terriers, and Cocker Spaniels.
Acquired: Factors like aging, diabetes, eye trauma, inflammation, or exposure to toxins can lead to acquired cataracts in dogs.
Symptoms
- Cloudy or opaque appearance in the eye(s)
- Changes in eye color
- Reduced vision or blindness
- Difficulty navigating familiar environments
- Squinting or rubbing the eyes
Breeds at Risk
Several dog breeds are genetically predisposed to cataracts, making them more susceptible to developing this condition. Some of these breeds include:
- Poodles
- Bichon Frises
- Boston Terriers
- Cocker Spaniels
- Miniature Schnauzers
- Siberian Huskies
- Golden Retrievers
How is Dog Cataract Surgery Performed?
Cataract surgery for dogs is a specialized procedure aimed at removing the clouded lens from the dog’s eye and replacing it with an artificial lens, thus restoring clear vision. Cataracts occur when the lens of the eye becomes opaque or cloudy, obstructing the passage of light onto the retina and causing visual impairment or blindness.
Here is a step-by-step breakdown of how cataract surgery works for dogs:
- Preoperative evaluation: The dog undergoes a thorough eye examination to assess the severity of the cataracts and ensure they are the cause of vision loss. The veterinarian will also evaluate the overall health of the dog to determine if it is a suitable candidate for surgery.
- Anesthesia: Just like in human cataract surgery, dogs are put under general anesthesia to ensure they remain relaxed and comfortable throughout the procedure.
- Initial incision: The veterinarian creates a small incision on the surface of the eye to gain access to the lens.
- Lens capsule opening: Using delicate micro-surgical tools, the surgeon makes a small circular opening in the thin, transparent capsule that surrounds the lens. This step is crucial to provide access to the cataract within the lens.
- Phacoemulsification or Phaco: In this step, an ultrasonic probe is inserted through the small incision and used to disrupt and emulsify the cataract into tiny fragments. The probe simultaneously irrigates and aspirates these fragments, removing them from the eye.
- Lens aspiration: Once the cataract is removed, the surgeon confirms that the lens capsule is clear and free from any remaining debris. This ensures a clean environment for the new artificial lens.
- Intraocular lens implantation (IOL): An artificial lens made of acrylic, silicone, or other materials is inserted into the lens capsule to replace the cloudy lens. The new lens is designed to provide improved vision at various distances, depending on the dog’s specific needs.
- Wound closure: After the new lens is securely placed, the small incision is closed using very fine sutures.
- Postoperative care: The dog is monitored closely post-surgery to ensure comfort, prevent infection, and promote healing. Eye drops or ointments are prescribed to aid in the recovery process. if you want to travel with your dog and worried about risks, a pet travel insurance might be suitable.
It is important to note that cataract surgery carries some risks, as with any surgical procedure. Potential complications can include infection, inflammation, increased eye pressure, retinal detachment, or regression of the surgical outcome. Regular follow-up visits with the veterinarian are necessary to evaluate the dog’s progress and address any concerns.
Cataract surgery can significantly improve a dog’s quality of life and alleviate the challenges caused by impaired vision. However, it is crucial to consult with a qualified veterinary ophthalmologist who can evaluate your dog’s specific condition and determine the best course of action to ensure a successful outcome.
Conclusion
Cataract surgery for dogs is a crucial option to restore vision and improve their quality of life. Understanding the causes, symptoms, breeds at risk, and the potential costs involved allows pet owners to make informed decisions about their furry companion’s eye health. Considering pet insurance and discussing treatment options with a trusted veterinarian can help manage the expenses associated with cataract surgery for dogs.
