So Your Pet Needs ACL Surgery: Will Your Insurance Cover It?

Most pet insurance plans cover ACL surgery also known as cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) repair if the injury isn’t pre-existing or diagnosed during the policy’s waiting period. Coverage depends on your plan type (comprehensive vs. accident-only), the timing of the injury, and your pet’s medical history. Since ACL surgery can cost between $1,500 and $10,000, it’s crucial to review your insurer’s exclusions, waiting periods, and bilateral condition clauses before assuming coverage applies.

ACL surgery technically cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) repair is one of the most common orthopedic procedures for dogs and may be covered under both comprehensive and accident-only pet insurance plans. While rare in cats, CCL injuries can still occur and may require surgical intervention depending on severity.

Veterinarians often refer to the CCL as the ACL for simplicity, since the term is more familiar to pet owners. If your pet shows signs of knee pain or limping, your vet may recommend surgery to restore mobility and prevent further joint damage. Coverage eligibility depends on your policy type, timing of the injury, and whether it’s considered a pre-existing condition.

Comprehensive pet insurance

Comprehensive pet insurance (accident and illness) offers the broadest coverage and is more likely to include ACL surgery. Cruciate ligament injuries can result from sudden trauma like a bad landing or gradual degeneration over time. Comprehensive plans typically cover both types, provided the injury isn’t pre-existing or diagnosed during the waiting period.

Accident-only pet insurance

Accident-only pet insurance may exclude ACL surgery depending on how the injury occurred and your policy’s fine print. These lower-cost plans only cover sudden, unexpected events like a fall that tears the ligament. If your pet is a high-risk breed prone to gradual knee damage, such as a Labrador Retriever, insurers may classify the injury as pre-existing and deny coverage.

When your pet shows signs of limping, you visit a veterinarian who may order X-rays and diagnose an ACL tear. If surgery is recommended, you’ll pay the vet directly and then submit a claim to your pet insurance provider with an itemized invoice. The insurer reviews your documentation, and if approved, reimburses you for eligible expenses typically via check or direct deposit. Coverage varies by provider, so review your policy for exclusions, waiting periods, and reimbursement limits.

Pre-existing conditions are one of the biggest hurdles to ACL surgery coverage. Most pet insurance policies exclude injuries that occurred before coverage began or during the waiting period. For cruciate ligament injuries, this waiting period can stretch up to six months far longer than the typical two-week window for other conditions. If your dog showed signs of limping before or shortly after enrollment, and the vet diagnoses ligament degeneration, the surgery may be denied as a pre-existing issue.

Bilateral condition exclusions are another common limitation. If your pet tore an ACL on one side before coverage started, and later needs surgery on the opposite leg, many insurers will consider the second injury part of a pre-existing bilateral condition. These exclusions are especially relevant for breeds prone to knee issues, like Labradors and Rottweilers.

ACL surgery for pets typically ranges from $1,500 to $10,000 per knee, depending on the severity of the injury, your pet’s age and size, the surgical method used, and your location. Some veterinary clinics may offer discounts if both knees require surgery at the same time.

Additional costs may include follow-up appointments, pain medications, mobility aids, and rehabilitation therapy especially if you opt for professional physical therapy. Many vets bundle post-op checkups and X-rays into the base surgery fee, but coverage varies.

Even if your pet insurance covers ACL surgery, you’ll likely need to pay upfront and submit a claim for reimbursement. Deductibles and co-insurance amounts are non-refundable, and follow-up care or rehab may only be covered through optional add-ons.

Is ACL Surgery Common for Dogs?

Yes. ACL surgery technically cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) repair is one of the most common orthopedic procedures in dogs, especially among large breeds like Labrador Retrievers, Rottweilers, and Newfoundlands.

Is ACL Surgery Common for Cats?

ACL injuries are less common in cats. When they do occur, non-surgical treatments like rest and medication often work well, making feline ACL surgery relatively rare.

How Much Does ACL Surgery Cost?

ACL surgery typically costs between $1,500 and $10,000 per knee. Final pricing depends on your pet’s size, health, location, and the complexity of the procedure.

What Is the Average Recovery Time for ACL Surgery?

Most pets recover within three to six months after ACL surgery. Recovery may include rest, physical therapy, and follow-up vet visits.

Can a Dog Recover From a Torn ACL Without Surgery?

If the tear is partial, non-surgical options like orthopedic braces, joint supplements, and restricted activity may help. Always consult your vet to determine the best treatment plan.

ACL surgery is often covered under comprehensive pet insurance plans provided the injury isn’t classified as pre-existing or diagnosed during the waiting period. Accident-only policies may also reimburse costs if the ligament tear results from a sudden mishap. However, coverage varies widely by provider. To avoid surprises, review your policy’s exclusions, waiting periods, and reimbursement terms before scheduling surgery.