UK considers £21 cap on pet prescriptions in vet sector reforms
7 reported
The UK government is considering plans to cap pet medicine prescriptions at £21 and introduce a mandatory licensing system for veterinary practices, according to a white paper published Thursday. The proposals also include establishing a new regulator for the veterinary sector, with inspections and published compliance reports. The reforms aim to address high costs and lack of competition, as more than 60% of veterinary practices are owned in whole or in part by six large groups, many backed by private equity. The Competition and Markets Authority found public satisfaction with vet costs was low and competition weak. Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds said the changes would help owners avoid unexpected bills and compare prices. Pet owners spent over £6.7bn on veterinary services in 2024, averaging £390 per household, with some procedures like cruciate ligament surgery for dogs costing up to £5,000. The white paper also proposes mandatory price lists and transparency over ownership structures.
What’s reported
The government is considering a £21 cap on pet medicine prescriptions.
A white paper published Thursday proposes a new regulator, mandatory licensing, inspections, and compliance reports for vet practices.
More than 60% of vet practices are owned in whole or part by six groups: CV, Pets at Home, Medivet, IVC, VetPartners, and Linnaeus.
The CMA found public satisfaction with vet costs was “low” and competition “not strong.”
Pet owners spent over £6.7bn on veterinary services in 2024, averaging £390 per household.
Surgery for cruciate ligament disease in dogs can cost £5,000 or more.
The Veterinary Surgeons Act dates from the 1960s, when the industry was mostly agricultural and small family-run businesses.
Key figures
Emma Reynolds, environment secretary
Sarah Cardell, chief executive of the Competition and Markets Authority
Sources: The Guardian
