How Much Does Veterinary Surgery Cost?

If you have a pet that needs surgery, you’re probably wondering how much it will cost or looking for a low-cost veterinary surgery option. It’s no secret that veterinary surgery can be expensive, especially if you’re paying out of pocket. Several factors can contribute to the final price tag, including the type of procedure, your pet’s age, breed, and size, and whether you visit a specialty vet. Even the area in which you live can affect how much you pay, with large cities often being home to higher prices.

The bottom line is that there’s no definitive answer for how much veterinary surgery will cost. But you can get a better idea of what to expect if you know about the factors involved. The information in this article can provide some context about what to expect for your pet’s surgery (both procedure and pricing). If you’re looking for an accurate quote based on your pet’s individual needs, please consult with a veterinarian.

Costs of Common Veterinary Surgeries

Pets may require surgery for a variety of reasons, and the cost can vary greatly depending on the procedure. However, some types of surgery are more common than others and costs tend to fall into a standard range. Here’s an idea of what you can expect to pay for some of the most common types of veterinary surgery:

Spaying or Neutering

Spaying or neutering is a common surgical procedure for both cats and dogs. It involves surgically removing the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus of female animals, while neutering involves surgically removing the testicles in male animals.

The benefits of spaying or neutering include prevention of unwanted pregnancies, reduction in the risk of certain types of cancer, and protection against other health issues. Spaying or neutering your pet can also reduce behaviors associated with mating like marking, humping, and roaming.

This type of surgery typically costs between $35 and $500. However, this can vary based on the type of clinic you visit and your pet’s size and weight. Laser spaying and neutering are also more expensive because of the high cost of the equipment used during surgery.

Oral Surgery

Oral surgery includes procedures like extracting diseased or infected teeth, removing cysts or tumors, and repairing fractured jaws. In some cases, it will be necessary for oral surgery to be performed by a veterinary specialist.

The cost of oral surgery can vary widely depending on the scope of the procedure and other factors like the veterinarian’s expertise. For procedures such as simple tooth extractions, you can expect to pay between $150 and $600. But it’s important to note that variables like the location of the tooth and the overall health of the individual animal can affect the cost.

If your pet needs more extensive oral surgery, the cost will likely be much higher. For example, mandibular (lower jawbone) fracture repair in dogs can cost upwards of $2,000. Again, factors like location and the type of clinic can all affect the total cost.

Hip Dysplasia Surgery

Hip dysplasia is a common condition in which the hip joint does not develop correctly, leading to pain and lameness. In some cases, surgery can be used to improve mobility and relieve symptoms associated with this condition in pets.

Just like other veterinary procedures, the cost of hip dysplasia surgery will vary depending on location and your pet’s age, breed, and health. This type of surgery's cost will also depend on whether both hips must be operated on.

According to VetInfo, the average cost of veterinary surgery for canine hip dysplasia is around $1,500, but the price of this complex surgery can be affected by a number of variables. Your veterinarian will be able to provide you with a more accurate estimate based on your dog or cat’s unique requirements.

Intestinal Blockage Surgery

Intestinal blockage occurs when an animal’s digestive system becomes obstructed and cannot function properly. It’s normally caused by ingestion of foreign objects like toys, rocks, or bone fragments. If left untreated, intestinal blockage can lead to serious health problems and/or death.

Based on the severity of the blockage, surgery may be necessary to remove the obstruction and restore proper digestive function. The cost of intestinal blockage surgery can vary depending on several factors. These include the type and severity of the condition and your pet’s age and overall health.

The average veterinary surgery costs for an intestinal blockage range from $800 to $7,000. Again, the exact cost of surgery will depend on several different factors, so it’s always best to talk with your veterinarian about your pet’s individual situation.

Will My Pet Insurance Plan Cover the Cost of Veterinary Surgery?

If you have a pet insurance plan, you may be able to use it to help cover the costs of both routine and emergency veterinary surgeries. Most pet insurance plans reimburse a percentage of your expenditures after you pay your veterinarian. The reimbursement amount will depend on the type of plan you have, so it’s important to check your policy carefully to determine the level of coverage. On average, pet insurance costs anywhere from $26 to $277 for dog owners.

What If I Don’t Have Pet Insurance?

If you don’t have pet insurance, you’ll need to pay the cost of your pet’s surgery out of pocket. Many veterinarians will allow you to set up a payment plan to make this easier. But if you don’t have the funds or credit necessary for this type of arrangement, it may be difficult to afford the surgery your pet needs. Please discuss payment options with your vet if you’re concerned about managing the cost of veterinary surgery.

If you’re struggling to afford the cost of veterinary surgery for your pet, you may be eligible for financial assistance. This article from the American Kennel Club (AKC) includes a list of resources that may help you find low-cost or free veterinary care for your pet. You can also check with local animal rescue organizations and nonprofit groups in your community to see if they offer programs to pet parents who need financial help.

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