UK vets must cap prescription fees at £21 and increase price transparency

The Competition and Markets Authority has imposed a set of binding reforms on UK veterinary practices, including a £21 ceiling on written prescription fees. Clinics must now offer written estimates for any procedure costing £500 or more, publish detailed price lists covering consultations, procedures and even cremation services, and clearly state their corporate affiliation. Ownership and pricing data will be shared through the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons' Find a Vet service for comparison sites.

While the CMA says the changes will help pet owners make informed choices, independent vets argue the loss of drug profit margins will force price hikes elsewhere, benefiting large corporate groups. The British Veterinary Association says many practices are already complying, and it has pushed back on provisions that could disproportionately affect smaller clinics. Critics also cite concerns that some vets may prioritize profit over animal care.