CMA provisional decision
What the CMA's veterinary rules mean for pet owners
We monitor the Competition and Markets Authority investigation into UK veterinary services and turn every update into calm, practical guidance. Use this site to prepare for the transparency changes the CMA has proposed for 2026 and to know what to ask your vet today.
For official notices and the latest timetable, always refer to the CMA case file at gov.uk.
Need-to-know summary
- Practices will need to publish clear price information for routine treatments and share it with comparison services.
- You keep the right to a written prescription so you can compare medicine costs, with a cap proposed on the fee.
- Vets must provide easy-to-read estimates and invoices, including ownership information about the practice.
The CMA timetable currently targets March 2026 for the final order, followed by phased implementation later that year. We update this page whenever the CMA publishes new milestones.
Get notified when the rules go live
Add your email and we will send a short briefing when the CMA publishes the final order and when live comparison tools are available.
Where to go next
Read the CMA guidance
Understand the remedies being proposed for vets, prescriptions, and price transparency.
See the background
Follow the journey from market study to full investigation and the key findings so far.
Check the FAQ
Quick answers on prescription fees, timelines, and what to expect at your next appointment.
Go to the source documents
Consult the CMA notices and evidence packs if you need the official detail.