5 Signs Your Vet May Be Overcharging You

Most of us trust our vets, especially when a pet is unwell. The CMA found that limited information about prices and ownership can make it hard to compare options. These questions can help with planned care; do not delay urgent treatment to shop around.

None of these signs proves that a particular vet is overcharging. They are prompts to ask for clearer information.

1. Your practice is owned by a corporate group

The CMA found higher average prices at five large groups than at independent practices in the period it studied, but there was considerable variation. Ask your practice who owns it and compare local prices for the care your pet needs.

Large groups will have to make common ownership clear by March 2027. A group-owned practice can still be the right choice for your pet; ownership is one factor to consider alongside clinical care, distance and cost.

2. Your medication costs significantly more than the online equivalent

The CMA found that commonly prescribed medicines were typically 50% to 60% cheaper at online pharmacies than at vet practices. Your own saving depends on the medicine, dose, delivery charge and written prescription fee.

The RCVS says you can request a written prescription and buy suitable medicine elsewhere, subject to a vet's clinical assessment. A vet may currently charge a reasonable fee. The new fee caps begin in March 2027 for larger businesses and September 2027 for smaller ones. Compare the total cost before switching supplier.

3. You never get an estimate before treatment

The RCVS says vets should offer an estimate before treatment, preferably in writing for surgery and other significant care. Ask what the estimate includes and whether additional charges might arise.

Under the CMA Order, written estimates will become mandatory for recommended treatment likely to cost £500 or more including VAT, except in emergencies. Larger businesses must comply by June 2027 and smaller ones by September 2027. You can ask for an estimate now, whatever the likely cost.

4. Getting a second opinion is made difficult

The RCVS says vets should facilitate requests for a second opinion or referral. If you are unsure about a proposed treatment, ask what alternatives are reasonable and how to share your pet's history with another practice. For urgent care, ask your vet whether waiting would be safe.

5. No prices are published anywhere

The CMA made its Order in September 2026, but practices have more time to publish standard lists. Larger businesses must do so by December 2026 and smaller ones by March 2027. Before a practice's deadline, a missing list does not by itself mean it is breaking the new rule.

Until the list is available, phone ahead for a price or written estimate. Ask what is included, since the final cost can change with your pet's clinical needs.