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Vet prescription fees capped under rule changes
The reforms require price lists, written estimates and ownership disclosures as the watchdog says vet prices rose nearly twice as fast as inflation.
- On Tuesday, the Competition and Markets Authority made its Veterinary Services Market Investigation Order 2026 legally binding, capping written prescription fees at £21 and mandating new transparency rules for vet practices across the UK.
- The regulator intervened after an investigation found veterinary prices rising at nearly twice the rate of inflation, prompting CMA panel chair Martin Coleman to state the reforms aim to strengthen competition and improve consumer trust.
- Practices must now publish comprehensive price lists and provide written estimates for treatments costing £500 or more, while the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons will integrate ownership data into its "Find a Vet" service for consumer comparison.
- Independent vet owner Cate Titterton warned that reducing drug profit margins could force practices to raise service costs, while critics argue the measures may disproportionately benefit the six large firms owning most UK practices.
- Larger businesses must comply with transparency measures by December 22, with all vets having up to 12 months to implement changes; British Veterinary Association President Rob Williams said the group will scrutinize the final orders.
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Daily ExpressReposted by 
PressNewsAgency
PressNewsAgencyVet prescription fees to be capped in major crackdown on soaring prices
The change forms part of a raft of new rules.
·London, United Kingdom
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New Vet Rules Could Change How UK Pet Owners Pay for Treatment
Larger veterinary businesses will have to introduce standardised price lists by December.Pet owners will get clearer information on treatment costs, care plans and emergency charges.New rules will also make it easier to compare practices and shop around for medicines.Pet owners are set to get a clearer picture of what they are paying for veterinary care as new rules bring greater transparency to the UK vet market.The Competition and Markets Auth…
Due to the alarmingly rising costs of veterinary treatment, the government has decided to introduce new regulations.
Coverage Details
Total News Sources12
Leaning Left4Leaning Right1Center2Last UpdatedBias Distribution57% Left
Bias Distribution
- 57% of the sources lean Left
57% Left
L 57%
C 29%
14%
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