cataract surgery cataract eye surgery

Dog Cataract Surgery Cost - How Much will it Cost

Cataract is the most serious eye problem which affects not only the human beings but also the animals. Usually those suffering with this problem will have their vision objected by a cloud like thing which could be so severe that it can cause loss of vision if left unattended. Although a cataract in your dog is not a life threatening disease, it is necessary to consult the veterinarian about the requirement of the surgery as not all cataracts require a surgical removal and you can try out other alternatives like medicines or drops. However, if performing a dog cataract surgery cost is important, as this surgery is quiet expensive and would cost you anywhere between $ 2000 to $2500 for each eye. However you can consult your nearest veterinarian to get a clearer picture of the dog cataract surgery cost.

Why is the Dog Cataract Surgery so Expensive?

Though the procedure for the cataract surgery remains the same for humans and dogs why is it costlier than a human cataract surgery?

The dog cataract surgery is expensive because the procedure of surgery requires specially trained persons, though the methods and equipments used are similar. The doctors who specialize in this field are called ‘veterinary ophthalmologists’ and they charge a higher rate for their advanced skill sets. And as most people don’t have an insurance covering for their pets plus most of the insurance companies do not give insurance cover for cataracts as they are considered to be a genetic condition. All these put together we end up spending more money, which could be costly.

Different Type of Cataracts in Dogs

The age at which a dog develops a cataract gives a clue about the type of cataract developed. The age when a cataract is developing is a very important factor. Congenial cataracts: this type of cataract is present by birth and is caused due to external factors like diabetes, trauma or infections.

Senile cataract: this type of cataract is less common in dogs and usually starts around the age of six.

Nuclear Sclerosis: this is a condition where the lens of the older dogs starts graying. This condition is not exactly called cataract but there will be a gradual loss of vision as the dog ages.

Diabetes Mellitus: one of the general reasons for cataract. This type of cataract develops rapidly if the dog is not treated and affects both the eyes.

Therefore, if you suspect that your dog has a cataract it is better to take it to a veterinarian and prefer to remove the undeveloped cataract or wait till the cataract matures completely and have it removed.

While, it would be best if the cataract can be reversed with the use of drops or medicines available; as it would not only save the dog from facing a potentially risky operation but also save you a lot of money which you could loose due to the dog cataract surgery cost.