Dog Cataract Surgery Cost 2026: Restoring Sight
Is your dog's vision worth $4,000? We analyze the costs of Phacoemulsification cataract surgery, success rates, and insurance coverage for senior dogs.
Dr. Sarah Chen
Veterinary Advisor
“He’s just getting old, his eyes are cloudy.”
Many owners dismiss cataracts as aging, but for diabetic dogs or certain breeds, cataracts cause blindness and painful glaucoma. The good news? We can fix it.
🚑 Case Summary: The “Cloudy” Lens
A cataract blocks light from reaching the retina.
- Success Rate: High (90-95% vision restoration).
- Technique: Phacoemulsification. Same ultrasound technology used on humans.
👩⚕️ Expert Analysis
“The most common regret I hear from owners is ‘I wish I did this sooner.’ Seeing a blind senior dog suddenly track a ball again after surgery is magical. But the post-op eye drops regimen is intense—you must be committed.”
— Dr. Sarah Chen, DVM
📊 The $8,000 Dual-Eye Bill
Eye surgery requires a board-certified Veterinary Ophthalmologist. Specialists vary by region.
| Item | Single Eye | Both Eyes |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Consult | $200 - $300 | $200 - $300 |
| ERG Test | $600 - $800 | $600 - $800 |
| Surgery | $2,800 - $3,500 | $3,800 - $4,800 |
| Meds/Follow-up | $500+ | $500+ |
| Total | $4,100+ | $5,100+ |
Note: Doing both eyes at once is much more cost-effective.
🛡️ Insurance Strategy: The Diabetes Link
75% of diabetic dogs develop cataracts within 9 months.
- The Trap: If your dog is diagnosed with Diabetes before you get insurance, the cataracts will be denied as a “secondary condition.”
- The Win: If you have insurance before the diabetes diagnosis, the $5,000 eye surgery is covered like any other illness.
Related Articles
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does dog cataract surgery cost?
Typically $3,500 to $4,500 *per eye*. This includes the pre-op ERG test, the surgery (phacoemulsification), and post-op checkups.
Does pet insurance cover cataract surgery?
Yes, provided it is not pre-existing. However, if your dog was diagnosed with Diabetes before getting insurance, cataracts (a secondary condition) might be excluded.
Is surgery necessary for cataracts?
Not always for survival, but untreated cataracts can lead to glaucoma and pain. Surgery restores vision and quality of life effectively.