Cat and Dog Cataract Surgery Cost and Financing

Cataracts is a non-reversable, progressive disease and the most common cause of blindness in pets¹. Cataracts is the clouding of the lens of one or both eyes and can cover part or all of the eye. Causes of cataracts in dogs or cats include old age, diabetes, inflammation of the eye’s uvea (uveitis) or low levels of calcium in the blood (hypocalcemia)¹,². Eye redness, eye socket inflammation, bulging, noticeable vision problems and pawing at the eyes are all symptoms of cataracts as well as visible cloudiness of the eye(s)¹,². The initial diagnosis of cataracts in a dog or cat is most often done by the veterinarian, but clients are often referred to a veterinarian who specializes in ophthalmology. There are both nonsurgical and surgical treatment options. The nonsurgical options mostly rely on managing the cataract through prescription eyedrops. Surgical treatment is the only permanent solution that can restore vision in the pet. The most common type of eye surgery is phacoemulsification which offers a 78 – 85% success rate¹. Below we dive into cat and dog cataract surgery cost, if insurance covers the procedure and how veterinary financing can help.

How much is cataract surgery for dogs and cats?

The average cost of cataract surgery for dogs and cats depends upon the extent of the condition, whether the condition is affecting one or both eyes, the health of the pet and if the treatment choice is non-surgical or surgical. In general pet owners can expect cataract surgery to average $3,500¹ and cost between $2,700 to $4,000² which includes the exam, surgery, anesthesia, operating room use, hospitalization, medications, check ups².

Does pet insurance cover cataract surgery?

Some pet insurance companies may cover the cost of cataract surgery depending upon several factors including if there was a pre-existing condition. If your pet insurance doesn’t cover the cost or you do not have pet insurance, you can expect to pay the full amount which, again, averages from $2,700 up to $4,000².

How can I finance and pay for cataract surgery for dogs and cats?

Most veterinarians expect payment at the time treatment or surgery is to be performed. Few veterinarians extend credit to clients through their practice where clients would receive bills from their veterinarian and pay them directly on a monthly basis. But almost all accept general purpose credit cards and many accept the CareCredit credit card, which may be a convenient way to pay for the procedure.

Can I use my CareCredit credit card to pay for cataract surgery for dogs and cats?

Yes. If approved, you can use your CareCredit credit card at locations within the CareCredit network to finance cataract surgery or treatment for your pet and to pay for wellness, injury, illness and other critical care needs. The benefit of using a CareCredit credit card for vet bills is the opportunity to use promotional financing* and pay with convenient monthly payments. With CareCredit, you can get your pet needed care immediately. You can also use your CareCredit card again and again to pay for a Lifetime of Care™. To find a veterinarian near you that accepts the CareCredit credit card go to Acceptance Locator or Mobile App.

This content is subject to change without notice and offered for informational purposes only. You are urged to consult with your individual healthcare, business, financial, legal, tax and/or other advisors with respect to any information presented. Synchrony and its affiliates, including CareCredit (collectively, “Synchrony”), makes no representations or warranties regarding this content and accepts no liability for any loss or harm arising from the use of the information provided. Your receipt of this material constitutes your acceptance of these terms and conditions.