In October 2025, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) published its provisional decision on the UK veterinary market — the result of an 18-month investigation that confirmed what many pet owners suspected: the vet industry has serious competition problems, and pet owners are paying too much.

Key CMA Findings

  • 63% real-terms price increase: Vet fees rose 63% above inflation between 2013 and 2023
  • 17% corporate premium: Corporate-owned practices charge an average of 17% more than independent practices for the same services
  • Ownership opacity: Most pet owners have no idea whether their vet is independently owned or part of a corporate group. Six groups now own over 60% of UK practices
  • Medication overcharging: Practices mark up medications by 100–500% compared to online pharmacy prices. Many actively discourage prescriptions to keep clients buying from them
  • Lack of price transparency: Few practices publish prices, making it difficult for pet owners to compare and shop around
  • Emergency care consolidation: Corporate groups have consolidated out-of-hours services into centralised emergency hospitals, reducing competition and increasing costs

The 21 Proposed Reforms

The CMA's reforms fall into several categories:

Price Transparency

  • All practices must publish standard consultation fees on their website and at the practice
  • Clear, itemised estimates must be provided before treatment
  • A standardised pricing format to make comparison easier

Prescription Rights

  • Practices must proactively offer written prescriptions (not wait for clients to ask)
  • Prescription fees may be capped at a reasonable level
  • Practices must display prescription fees alongside medication prices

Ownership Transparency

  • All practices must clearly display their corporate ownership (if applicable)
  • A public register of veterinary practice ownership
  • Pet owners must be informed when their practice changes ownership

Regulatory Oversight

  • A new regulatory body or expanded role for an existing one to oversee veterinary pricing and competition
  • Regular price monitoring and reporting

When Do Reforms Take Effect?

The CMA's final decision is expected in mid-2026, with reforms phased in over 12–24 months. Some measures (like price publishing) could be implemented relatively quickly, while structural changes to regulation will take longer.

What You Can Do Now

  • Use VetCost to compare vet prices near you — do not assume all practices charge the same
  • Always ask for a written prescription for any ongoing medication
  • Check who owns your vet practice
  • Ask for itemised bills and question charges you do not understand

Last updated: March 2026. Sources: CMA provisional decision (October 2025), CMA market investigation terms of reference.