Tue, 27 Jan 2026

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 Vets may have to publish prices of common pet treatments

The government sets out proposals as data finds vet prices rose at nearly twice the inflation rate.

* Veterinary practices will be required to publish prices of common treatments so pet owners can compare costs and choose the best value.
* Practices will also need an official operating licence to drive up standards, under new government proposals.
* The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has found that vet prices have risen at nearly twice the rate of inflation.
* More than half of all UK households own a pet, and common treatments include annual vaccinations, microchipping, and neutering or spaying.
* A lack of price transparency has been identified as a major issue, with 84% of vet practice websites having no pricing information.
* The government is launching an eight-week public consultation on the proposals, which will close on March 25th.
* Practices owned by non-vets would be required to disclose this information, and price transparency would help increase competition and bring down costs.
* The reforms aim to increase transparency and drive up standards in the veterinary industry.
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