The most common eye problem in dogs and cats, cataracts, can be a severe condition causing blindness in both dogs and cats. It is more common in dogs than in cats. The surgery can be expensive, but if you have insurance, you have less to worry about because it can help cover the cost of cataract surgery.
Before we get any further,
What are cataracts?
If you see the inside of your dog’s eyes, you’ll see a glass-like disc called the lens. This lens helps in focusing all images on the retina, which indeed helps the dog see clearly. This is a similar structure to what we humans have as well. When a vet says the dog has developed a cataract, that means that there is a cloudy patch on the lens, which is affecting the formation of the image in the retina, causing blurry vision. In severe cases, it can also cause blindness. (1)
How do dogs get cataracts?
Cataracts are more common in older dogs, just like they are more common in older people. However, multiple factors can cause cataracts in dogs. They include – (1)
Age—Cataracts are more common in older dogs because of the natural changes in the fiber and protein inside the lens that happen with ageing. This is a slow process, and most dogs adapt to the altered vision gradually.
Diabetes – High blood sugar can cause the lens to swell and turn cloudy. Almost all diabetic dogs develop cataracts, often resulting in complete vision loss.
Injury – Any sort of injury to the eyes can cause inflammation inside, resulting in lens damage and, hence, cataracts.
Eye problems – These include:
Glaucoma – High pressure inside the eye
Luxation – When the lens moves out of its normal position
Uveitis – Inflammation inside the eye
Progressive retinal atrophy – A genetic degenerative disease that affects the photoreceptor cells, eventually causing blindness
Apart from these factors, genetics can also cause cataracts. Certain breeds are more prone to cataracts than others. These include Boston Terrier, Bichon Frise, Cocker Spaniel, Havanese, Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever, Miniature Schnauzers, etc. Some dogs are even born with cataracts, which are known as congenital cataracts. However, most of them develop later in life.
How do I know if a dog has cataracts?
Below are the symptoms you will notice in a dog with cataracts –
Changed eye color to milky white, grey, or blue
Lack of eye reflection in pictures taken at night
Bumping into things in low light
Constant squinting or pawing
Red, bloodshot eyes
Bulging eyes
The signs may not be very obvious in all cases. You may not see any change in the dog’s ability to maneuver as well in some cases, as they adapt to the loss of vision by compensating for it with their heightened sense of smell and hearing.
How to treat cataracts in dogs?
Surgery – there is no other option to treat cataracts. They can only be removed surgically. It is a very complicated procedure and is usually performed by a specialist. Not all affected dogs are good candidates, though, because of the risks that come with the surgery. The dog needs to be healthy without any other serious eye problems to undergo surgery.
During the surgery, which is called phacoemulsification, the cloudy lens is broken into tiny pieces using high-frequency ultrasound waves by inserting a tiny probe into the eye. The pieces are then removed, and an artificial lens is put into place. The eye is then stitched back together. (1)
The dog will need post-surgical care. It usually involves regularly applying eye drops and following up with the vet at regular intervals.
In case surgery is not an option for the dog, you must help the dog by keeping the home environment familiar and consistent - avoid rearranging furniture or redecorating. This way, your pet can rely on their memory to walk around the house. You also need to keep looking for any symptoms relating to uveitis or glaucoma. In case you see any, they can be managed with eye drops.
How much does it cost to treat cataracts in dogs?
Although quite common, cataract surgery is very complicated and requires a specialist to perform it. The surgery cost can range anywhere between $2800-$4200, depending on factors like the type of surgery (phacoemulsification or extracapsular), the level of complexity, the location, and whether or not both eyes are affected.(2)
Other costs may include the initial examination, ERG, ocular ultrasound, blood work, and any other pre-operative tests. These services can cost an additional $1000.(2)
Does dog insurance cover cataract surgery?
Yes, pet insurance can help cover cataract surgery if it is not a pre-existing condition. The problem should have developed after the waiting period as well. An accident-only plan may not cover it, but an accident and illness plan will typically help cover the costs related to a cataract surgery.
How much is the average payout for Cataracts in Dogs?
According to our internal data, the average payout for cataracts at Spot Pet Insurance is $2,571*. We not only help cover the main surgery cost but also the additional costs attached to it. Our plans also help cover the costs incurred after the surgery, like follow-up vet visits, and more.
More about Spot Pet Insurance
Dog Insurance can help provide financial assistance for eligible veterinary care in case of unexpected accidents, illnesses, or injuries. Our plans can help pet parents manage the eligible costs of covered veterinary care and help ensure that their pets can receive the best treatment possible. Here are some ways that Spot pet insurance plans can help:
Covers Unexpected Veterinary Costs: Spot pet insurance plans help cover the eligible costs of unexpected veterinary treatments, such as emergency surgeries, X-rays, and prescription medications for covered conditions.
Customizable Plans: Choose your annual limit, reimbursement rate, and deductible from a range of options, and create the plan that will fit the needs of your pet and your budget.
Peace of Mind: With Spot pet insurance plans, pet parents can know that they can provide the best care for their pet with less worry about the cost.
To learn more about Spot Plans or to get a free quote, click here.
With 15 years as a dog and cat parent, my pet articles are a mix of humor and firsthand experience - proof that the best stories often come with paws and purrs.
Cataracts in dogs. (n.d.). PDSA. https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/pet-health-hub/conditions/cataracts-in-dogs
Morris, M. S. (2023, April 3). Dog cataract surgery: Breaking down the costs. GoodRx. https://www.goodrx.com/pet-health/dog/cataract-surgery-cost
*2024 Spot Pet Insurance Services, LLC. claims data.
