Does Pet Insurance Cover Cataract Surgery?

As our pets age, we want to be sure to do everything we can to maintain their quality of life. Aging pets experience a variety of health conditions, and cataracts is one of the most common. Currently the only treatment for cataracts is surgery, and the cost would put a major ding in most people’s bank accounts. That’s why more pet parents are wondering “Does pet insurance cover cataract surgery?”

The good news is that yes, there are some pet insurance companies that either partially or fully cover cataract surgery. If you currently have pet insurance, contact your provider to see if they offer this coverage. If you don’t have pet insurance but are thinking of getting it, keep reading to find out some of the top pet insurance providers who cover cataract surgery.

Cost of Pet Cataract Surgery

Cataracts are a progressive disease. The sooner your pet gets a diagnosis and corrective surgery, the better. Dogs do very well with cataract surgery and the long-term success rate is typically between 85% and 90%. 

Cost of cataract surgery can vary, depending on where you live and the clinic or animal hospital you choose. Other things that impact cost are things like consultation fees, pre-op exams, bloodwork and other diagnostic testing, hospitalization, and medications. 

If only one of your fur baby’s eyes is affected, you’re looking at paying between $2,000 and $3,000. If both eyes require surgery then you can plan on spending $3,500 to $4,500. In some areas of the country, you could be looking at a bill for $5,000 or higher.

How Pet Insurance Helps Cover Cataract Surgery

A pet insurance plan reimburses you for a portion of the covered vet costs. Reimbursement rates vary, depending on the plan you choose. Some plans reimburse for 70% of the vet bill while other plans reimburse for 80% and even 90% of costs. 

Accident and Illness plans are the most common type of plan sold and cover expenses related to injuries and illnesses, including cataracts. Many providers also sell wellness coverage, which reimburses for routine care, vaccinations, spaying and neutering and more.

Why Some Pet Insurance Companies Don’t Cover Cataract Surgery

Before enrolling your fur baby into a pet insurance plan, it’s important that you read the contract carefully since it may include exclusions. One of the most common exclusion is not covering pre-existing conditions, and this may apply to cataracts. 

Some pets are genetically predisposed to cataracts and if your fur baby is one of them, your best is to take action now and sign up for pet insurance before an official diagnosis.

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What Pet Insurance Providers Cover Cataract Surgery?

The following are some of the most popular pet insurance providers that cover cataract surgery, according to our reviewers:

Trupanion

Trupanion is one of the top pet insurance companies based on pet parent reviews. Monthly premiums for dogs start around $59 while cats are around $30 for a comprehensive accident and illness plan. 

Trupanion offers cataract surgery coverage if the disease is an inherited or congenital condition, not if it is a result of an injury or conditions like diabetes. 

Find out more about Trupanion Pet Insurance.

Lemonade

Lemonade is a highly-rated pet insurance provider that covers a variety of health conditions, including cataracts and cataract surgery. The company also offers an 80% reimbursement rate on the cost of cataract surgery.

Pet parents can customize the coverage they need as well as add on preventative treatment plans. A policy for a dog or cat starts at just $10 a month, making Lemonade one of the most affordable providers out there. 

Find out more about Lemonade pet insurance.

MetLife

MetLife has been around for decades and is a trusted provider. They also offer very affordable plans, with policies starting at just $9 a month. Customers have the ability to choose from a range of options to fit their needs and budget. MetLife will cover up to 80% of cataract surgery, giving pet parents peace of mind. 

Learn more about MetLife pet insurance.

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Spot

Spot pet insurance is known for offering customers highly customizable plans, allowing you to choose the deductible, reimbursement rate and annual limits that are best for you. You can choose an accident and illness plan and add-on coverage for preventative care and even behavioral issues and alternative therapies.

Spot covers accidents, injuries, illnesses, and congenital conditions, so you can absolutely get coverage for cataract surgery. The amount you pay for surgery will depend on the coverage, deductible, reimbursement you choose. Having said this, Spot does not cover pre-existing conditions, so it’s best to enroll your fur baby as early as possible before any major health issues are diagnosed.

Learn more about Spot pet insurance. 

Final Thoughts

Does pet insurance cover cataract surgery? Yes, many providers will cover a portion of costs depending on the plan you choose. Before enrolling, be sure to read the fine print and ensure there are no exclusions. And if you have any questions, always reach out to the company’s customer service, who are always happy to answer any questions you may have.

References:

https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/eye/c_dg_cataract

The information contained on this blog is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary care. Always consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your pet's health care or treatment plan.

The authors of this blog are not veterinarians and do not claim to be experts in pet health. The information provided here is based on our own experiences and research, as well as information from reputable sources. However, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information.

We encourage you to do your own research and consult with your veterinarian before making any decisions about your pet's health.