A raft of measures have been unveiled aimed at tackling high prices and a lack of transparency about pricing among veterinary practices. The Competitions and Markets Authority (CMA) launched its investigation into vet pricing in 2024 after an independent inquiry group reported that owners were "being left in the dark" amid inflation-busting increase in prices of 60% from 2015-23, compared to 35% for the overall economy. The regulator has now published its findings and final remedies and recommendations. These include:

• Practices being required to publish price lists for standard services.
• Vet practice ownership information including whether they belong to a 'group' to be displayed on site and online.
• Written estimates to be provided for treatments costing more than £500, other than in emergencies.
• Pet owners to be informed if a written prescription would save them money.
• Written prescription fees to be capped at £21 for the first medicine and £12.50 for any extra medicines.

In addition, practices will need to have policies in place allowing vets to provide independent advice, in addition to a clear complaints process. The CMA said competition alone is "not enough to protect consumers". Remedies are expected to be in force within nine to 18 months. Martin Coleman, chair of the independent inquiry group, said: "This is the most extensive review of veterinary services in a generation, and today’s reforms will make a real difference to the millions of pet owners who want the best for their pets but struggle to find the practice, treatment and price that meets their needs. "Too often, people are left in the dark about who owns their practice, treatment options and prices - even when facing bills running into thousands of pounds. "Our measures mean it will be made clear to pet owners which practices are part of large groups, which are charging higher prices, and for the first time, vet businesses will be held to account by an independent regulator. "Our changes put pet owners at the centre but also help vets by enhancing trust in the profession and protecting clinical judgement from undue commercial pressure – and that is important to ensure our pets continue to get the best care."