The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has published its final findings following a major investigation into veterinary services across the UK.
The review identified widespread issues around pricing transparency, ownership clarity, and access to information, which have contributed to higher costs and reduced competition in the sector.
Key Points
- The CMA has concluded its investigation into UK veterinary services
- New legally binding rules will improve pricing transparency
- Prescription fees will be capped
- A comparison tool for vet practices will be introduced
- Changes are expected to begin rolling out from late 2026
What Happened
The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has published its final report following a major investigation into veterinary services across the UK.
The review found that many pet owners struggle to access clear information on pricing, ownership, and treatment options. This lack of transparency has been linked to weaker competition and higher costs.
A package of legally binding reforms has now been approved, aimed at making the market easier to navigate and more responsive to pet owners.
This latest update follows earlier government proposals to reform the veterinary sector, described as the biggest overhaul in 60 years. Those proposals focused on improving transparency, pricing clarity, and regulation across the industry.
What Will Change
The reforms introduce a wide range of new requirements for veterinary practices.
These include:
- Clear pricing
Practices will need to publish comprehensive price lists for standard services such as consultations, procedures, diagnostics, prescriptions, and cremation options. - Written estimates for higher costs
Guardians must receive a written estimate before treatment expected to exceed £500, except in emergencies. - Prescription fee caps
Fees for written prescriptions will be limited to £21 for the first medicine and £12.50 for additional items. - Ownership transparency
Practices will be required to clearly state whether they are part of a larger group or independently owned. - Comparison tools
Pricing and ownership data will be made available through the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) ‘Find a Vet’ service, with potential integration into comparison platforms. - Clearer pet care plans
Plans must show full pricing breakdowns and how any savings are calculated. - Improved complaints processes
Practices will need to provide accessible complaint procedures and engage in mediation if needed.
What Researchers Found
The CMA identified several key issues affecting pet owners:
- Fewer than 40% of practices currently publish pricing online
- Many guardians are unaware if their vet is part of a larger chain
- Written cost estimates are not consistently provided
- Prescription fees vary widely
- Limited ability to compare practices locally
The investigation received over 56,000 responses, highlighting the scale of concern across both the public and the profession.
What It Means for Dog Guardians
For dog guardians, the changes are designed to make veterinary care:
- Easier to understand
- Easier to compare
- More transparent in terms of cost
This may help guardians make more informed decisions about treatment, ongoing care, and where to seek services.
The introduction of prescription fee caps and clearer pricing may also reduce unexpected costs.
What It Means for the Sector
For veterinary practices, the reforms introduce new compliance requirements, including pricing transparency, communication standards, and regulatory oversight.
The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) is expected to play a central role in monitoring compliance and supporting implementation.
The CMA has also backed proposals to modernise legislation, which could bring veterinary businesses under more direct regulatory accountability.
What Happens Next
The CMA now has six months to implement legally binding orders.
- Orders expected by: September 2026
- Most changes are rolled out within 3 to 12 months after that
- Larger groups likely to implement changes first
Some reforms may begin appearing in practice before the end of 2026.
Read More
Competition and Markets Authority (24 March 2026)
FAQ‘s
Will vet prices go down in the UK?
The reforms are designed to improve transparency and competition, which may help reduce costs over time. However, prices may still vary depending on the practice, location, and treatment required.
Can vets still charge for prescriptions?
Yes. Vets can continue to charge for written prescriptions, but fees will now be capped at £21 for the first medicine and £12.50 for additional items.
Do I have to buy medication from my vet?
No. Pet owners can request a written prescription and choose to purchase medication from a pharmacy or online provider, which may offer lower prices.
Will all vet practices show their prices online?
Under the new rules, practices will be required to publish clear and comprehensive price lists for standard services, making it easier to compare options.
How will I know if my vet is part of a large group?
Veterinary practices will need to clearly display ownership information both in practice and online, including whether they are part of a larger chain.
When will these changes happen?
Legally binding orders are expected by September 2026, with most changes being introduced within the following 3 to 12 months.
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