The CMA Vet Reforms: A Deadline-by-Deadline Guide for Independent Practices

The Competition and Markets Authority has concluded its market investigation into veterinary services for household pets, and the reforms are moving from proposal to law. For independent practices (those the CMA classes as smaller providers, with fewer than 15 first-opinion practices), the deadlines fall later than for the large groups, in two clear waves. By March 2027: standardised price lists, basic practice information, ownership and independence disclosure, pet care plan transparency, cremation pricing with a communal option, a written clinical-independence policy, and an in-house complaints process with access to RCVS mediation. By September 2027: written estimates for treatments of 500 pounds or more, itemised bills, prescription fee caps (21 pounds for the first medicine and 12.50 pounds for each additional one), telling clients they can request a written prescription, and supplying pricing and ownership data to the RCVS Find a Vet comparison service. This guide lays out the full timeline and what to do now. Dates reflect the CMA draft Orders (consultation 21 July to 20 August 2026), with the Orders expected to come into force in September 2026; check the finalised Orders before you act.