Cataracts and infection

My one year old rat, Mona, recently developed Cataracts in both eyes and now
has an infection in her left eye. Her eye is bulging and red (it was
originally black). I took her to the vet and have been giving her eye drops
for about 5 days. The eye drops really haven't helped at all, so now the vet
says I should take Mona to the Ophthalmologist, which will cost $80 to $100.

Now, I certainly love my little rats alot, but this a lot of money for a
problem that seems to be bothering me more than it bothers her.

Has anyone else had rats with Cataracts or this sort of eye infection? What
worked for you?

Thank you,
Jessica & Mona