Buying pet medication from online pharmacies instead of your vet is one of the easiest ways to save money on pet care. The CMA's investigation confirmed what many pet owners already suspected: vet practices mark up medications significantly, and buying online with a prescription can save 40–70%.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Identify Which Medications You Can Buy Online

All pet medications can be bought online, but the process differs:

  • POM-V medications: Require a written veterinary prescription (e.g., Metacam, NexGard Spectra, Felimazole, Vetmedin, antibiotics)
  • POM-VPS medications: Need to be dispensed by a pharmacist, vet, or SQP (Suitably Qualified Person). Can be bought online with a simple check
  • NFA-VPS medications: No prescription needed, available from any retailer (e.g., Frontline Plus, Drontal, Seresto collars)
  • AVM-GSL products: Available anywhere, no restrictions (e.g., YuMOVE, dental chews)

Step 2: Get a Written Prescription

At your next vet appointment, ask: "Can I have a written prescription for [medication name], please?" Your vet is legally required to provide one. They will charge a fee of £10–£25. The prescription typically lasts 6 months.

Step 3: Compare Pharmacy Prices

Use VetCost's medication price comparison to check prices across major UK online pet pharmacies. Prices vary by 20–40% between pharmacies for the same product.

Step 4: Place Your Order

Most online pharmacies require you to either:

  • Post the original prescription to them (they return it after processing), or
  • Have your vet send the prescription directly, or
  • Upload a photo/scan and post the original later

Step 5: Receive Your Medication

Delivery typically takes 1–3 working days. Some pharmacies offer free delivery over a certain order value.

Reputable UK Online Pet Pharmacies

Only use pharmacies registered with the VMD (Veterinary Medicines Directorate). Reputable options include:

  • VetUK
  • Animed Direct
  • Pet Drugs Online
  • VetDispense
  • PetScripts

Is It Safe?

Yes, provided you use a VMD-registered pharmacy. These pharmacies are inspected, sell genuine UK-licensed products, and employ qualified pharmacists. The medication you receive is identical to what your vet would dispense — it comes from the same manufacturers.

Avoid buying pet medication from general marketplace sellers (eBay, unregistered Amazon sellers) as these may sell counterfeit, expired, or incorrectly stored products.

How Much Can You Save?

A pet on two long-term medications (e.g., Metacam + Felimazole for an older cat, or Vetmedin + Fortekor for a dog with heart disease) can save £200–£500 per year by buying online with prescriptions. The savings increase with the number and cost of medications.

Last updated: March 2026. Sources: CMA provisional decision (October 2025), VMD pharmacy register, VetCost pharmacy price data.