Cataracts cloud the lens of the eye and can leave a dog blind. They are common in older dogs and in dogs with diabetes. Surgery restores sight in many cases, but it is one of the most expensive eye operations.
Key facts
- At a university vet hospital, phacoemulsification costs €1,200 per eye.
- Each intraocular lens costs an extra €70.
- Anaesthesia and the pre-anaesthetic assessment are charged separately.
Reference prices (2026)
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| Lens surgery: phacoemulsification (one eye) | €1,200 |
| Intraocular lens (each) | €70 |
| Lens surgery: intracapsular extraction | €630 |
What makes the price vary?
Whether one or both eyes are operated on, the technique, the size of the dog (which changes the anaesthetic price) and tests beforehand, such as an eye ultrasound. At this hospital the surgery includes up to 24 hours of observation and two check-ups, but not the anaesthetic, the pre-anaesthetic assessment or additional tests.
How much does Petplan cover?
Petplan Spain reimburses 100% of the invoice up to €3,100 a year, with a €45 co-payment per illness or accident, at the vet of your choice. It does not cover pre-existing conditions or preventive care, and there are waiting periods of 15 days for accidents and 30 days for illness.
The policy includes surgery carried out by the vet. A cataract that already existed when you took out the policy is a pre-existing condition and is not covered.
Frequently asked questions
Can every dog with cataracts have surgery?
No. A veterinary ophthalmologist first assesses the eye and the dog’s general health.
How much does one eye cost in total?
At this hospital, surgery and lens come to €1,270, plus anaesthesia by weight and the pre-anaesthetic assessment.
Sources
- Veterinary Hospital of the University of Zaragoza, 2026 public prices (VAT included).
- Petplan, health insurance general conditions (in Spanish).
See also: cost of anaesthesia, cost of an ultrasound, cost of an emergency vet visit and real cost of the vet in Spain 2026.
Indicative prices. Spain has no official price scale and each clinic sets its own fees: these are the public prices of a university veterinary hospital, and other clinics may charge differently.
