Vets to be legally required to publish price lists and cap prescription fees

Vets will be legally bound to prescription fee caps and publishing price lists among new measures which will start coming into force later this year, the competition watchdog has announced.

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) said its final reforms for the sector will help pet owners better navigate the vet services market.

Other legally binding measures will include a price comparison website and mandatory branding by the large groups to boost competition and drive down prices.

The CMA said pet owners using a vet practice that is part of a larger chain can expect to see changes before Christmas, including standard price lists.

The measures follow the CMA finding that fees have risen at almost twice the rate of inflation, with pet owners not being given enough information about their vet and the prices of treatments.

Martin Coleman, chairman 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 judgment from undue commercial pressure – and that is important to ensure our pets continue to get the best care.”