UK launches biggest vet sector reform in 60 years

05/02/2026

The UK government has opened a major consultation to overhaul the veterinary sector for the first time in six decades, aiming to make vet services clearer, fairer and more transparent for pet owners while supporting veterinary teams. The reforms were published by Defra (Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs) on 27 January 2026.

Defra said the changes follow findings from the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), which warned that problems in the vet market could be costing households up to GBP 1 billion over five years, and that vet fees have risen at nearly twice the rate of inflation—driving affordability concerns and “bill shock” for families.

Key proposals include:

Mandatory price lists for common treatments, plus clearer information on options and changes so owners can compare costs before committing.

Ownership disclosure, so customers know whether a practice is independent or part of a larger chain—an issue Defra highlights as around 60% of practices are owned by non-vets.

A new operating licence for every vet practice, alongside stronger rules on how businesses operate and a clearer route for complaints.

Steps to modernise regulation, including bringing veterinary nurses and some allied professionals into regulation and updating governance of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS).

For the animal health economy, the message is straightforward: vet care is being pushed toward a more consumer-facing, regulated service model, where transparent pricing and business accountability become competitive essentials—not optional extras.