Dog Cataract Surgery Cost in 2025: What Owners Should Expect (Full Breakdown by Breed & Country)
Cataracts are one of the most common causes of vision loss in dogs — and, thankfully, one of the most treatable. But before committing to surgery, most owners want to understand how much dog cataract surgery costs, what influences that price, and whether it’s worth the investment. Here’s a complete breakdown for 2025.
On average, dog cataract surgery costs between $2,700 and $4,500 per eye in the U.S. In the UK, the price typically ranges between £2,000 and £3,500, while in Australia, it averages AUD $3,000–$5,000.
Average Dog Cataract Surgery Cost in 2025
These figures often include pre-surgery consultations, anesthesia, surgery itself, and a few post-operative checkups. However, additional costs such as diagnostic imaging or lab tests can add several hundred more.
What Affects the Cost of Cataract Surgery in Dogs?
Several factors influence the final bill:
- Number of eyes treated: Many clinics charge per eye, though some offer a discount for both.
- Severity of the cataract: Dense or mature cataracts are harder to remove and may require longer surgery.
- Breed and size: Small breeds like Toy Poodles often have lower costs than larger dogs such as Labradors due to anesthesia dosage and surgical complexity.
- Location: Prices are typically higher in major cities or regions with fewer veterinary ophthalmologists.
- Equipment and expertise: Specialists using advanced phacoemulsification equipment tend to charge more — but success rates are significantly higher.
Cost Comparison: General Vet vs. Veterinary Ophthalmologist
While some general veterinarians offer basic eye care, cataract surgery should always be performed by a certified veterinary ophthalmologist.General vets may charge less upfront, but ophthalmologists use specialized microscopes and surgical lasers that reduce the risk of complications and ensure better vision outcomes.
Choosing a specialist might cost more initially — but it often means fewer post-op issues and better long-term savings.
Pre- and Post-Operative Costs
It’s easy to overlook the additional costs around the surgery itself. Here’s what to budget for:
- Initial consultation: $150–$300
- Diagnostic tests (bloodwork, ultrasound): $300–$600
- Medications and post-op drops: $100–$200
- Follow-up visits: $100–$250 per visit
In total, the complete treatment plan may reach $5,000 or more, especially for bilateral cases.
Pet Insurance and Financing Options
Many pet insurance plans cover cataract surgery if it’s not a pre-existing condition. If your dog develops cataracts after your policy starts, the procedure can often be reimbursed up to 80%.Some clinics also offer payment plans or CareCredit financing, making it easier to spread costs over several months.
Is Cataract Surgery Worth the Price?
For most dogs, yes. Cataract surgery boasts an over 90% success rate, with dogs regaining clear vision and quality of life.
Owners frequently report that their pets become more confident, playful, and active again within days of recovery.
While the dog cataract surgery cost can seem daunting, understanding where your money goes — and the life-changing impact it offers — makes the decision clearer.
Think of it not as an expense, but as an investment in your dog’s comfort, independence, and happiness.
