The Competition and Market Authority (CMA) has published a working paper outlining potential remedies linked to its market investigation into veterinary services for household pets in the UK.
The paper suggests a number of measures to address what is seen as a lack of competition in the marketplace for vet services, and a lack of transparency surrounding costs for pet owners and the suitability of particular treatments.
The CMA proposes to make it a requirement for vets to provide clear and accurate information about different treatments, services and referral options in advance and in writing, as well as making it clear if the practice is part of a larger group. The Authority also asks for greater transparency of medicine prices, suggesting generic rather than brand-led prescriptions, and even prescription price controls similar to human medicine.
The CMA concluded that the current regulatory framework governing veterinary services is “no longer fit for purpose”, but decided not to pursue any action at the current time to address the recent consolidation of the market into six large operators.
The working paper has been published in order to launch a consultation with vet businesses, veterinary professionals and other interested parties on the likely impact of the proposed remedies. This consultation closes at 5pm on Tuesday May 27, 2025.
