Cholecystectomy (Gallbladder Removal)
Aproximate Cost:
$1,900 - $2,200
What It Is
A cholecystectomy is the surgical removal of the gallbladder. The gallbladder stores bile, which aids in digestion, but can sometimes become diseased or obstructed. During this procedure, the surgeon carefully isolates and removes the gallbladder while preserving the surrounding liver tissue and bile ducts.
Why It’s Performed
This surgery is performed to treat conditions such as gallbladder mucocele, severe gallbladder inflammation (cholecystitis), rupture, or gallstones causing obstruction. These conditions can be life-threatening if untreated. Removing the diseased gallbladder eliminates the source of obstruction, infection, or rupture risk and helps restore normal bile flow.
Risks Involved
Possible complications include infection, bleeding, bile leakage, pancreatitis, or injury to surrounding structures. Because many patients are very sick at the time of surgery, there is an increased anesthetic and postoperative risk, making early diagnosis and intervention important.
Typical Recovery Time
We recommend unstable patients go to the ER for continued monitoring and supportive care. Once home, activity is restricted for about 2–3 weeks. Pain is usually managed with medication, and liver-protective or digestive supplements may be prescribed during recovery. Pets adapt well to life without a gallbladder.
Our Approach
At Howard County Animal Hospital in Ellicott City, MD, we perform cholecystectomy procedures with precision and care. Our goal is to make high-quality surgical care accessible and affordable for local pet owners, and we provide clear, upfront estimates so families can plan for the cost of treatment.
We are committed to offering affordable surgery options with transparent pricing. The cost shown are general estimates only, and a personalized estimate will be provided after your consultation.
We accept all major credit cards, Zelle, and cash. For clients interested in payment plans, we also work with CareCredit.
What’s Included in Our Surgical Costs
Our surgical prices are designed to be as transparent as possible and include:
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All charges typically associated with the day of the procedure
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Preoperative exam the day of the procedure
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Anesthesia and monitoring required throughout the procedure
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All perioperative injectable medications administered before, during and after the procedure to keep your pet safe and comfortable
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IV catheter and fluids to maintain vascular support during your pet’s surgery and recovery
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Detailed discharge instructions for at-home aftercare
What’s NOT Included in Our Surgical Costs
The following items are not included in the surgical costs and may be recommended or required depending on your pet’s individual needs:
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Pre-operative diagnostic workups to determine the underlying problem (e.g., bloodwork, radiographs, ultrasound)
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All diagnostics associated with your pet's procedure would be included (e.g. orthopedic surgery requiring post-operative radiographs, cystotomy with stone analysis).
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Pre-anesthetic blood work
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Optional for healthy pets under 3 years old for routine procedures, but recommended to help ensure the safety of anesthesia.
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Radiographs (X-rays) associated with diagnosing or planning the procedure
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Medications to take home (such as pain meds, antibiotics, sedatives or safety collars).
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If needed: Continued care at a local ER for monitoring and stability, recommended for unstable and sick patients.
We will discuss all recommended or required services with you in advance so you have a complete understanding of your pet’s surgical plan and costs.