Prices for veterinary services for household pets increased by 63% between 2016 and 2023, according to a Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) investigation. The CMA has recommended changes to control prices, which vets are expected to implement over the next year.
Pet owners can explore several options to potentially reduce costs. One method is to shop around for prescriptions; the CMA found that purchasing long-term medications online rather than directly from a vet's pharmacy could save over £200 annually. Owners can ask their vet for a prescription copy to use at other pharmacies.
Asking a vet about prescribing a larger supply of long-term medication or a generic version of a branded medication may also lead to savings. Additionally, for general support, seeing a veterinary nurse for services like weight management or dental checks can be cheaper than a vet appointment. For routine services such as spaying or vaccinations, comparing prices between different practices is advised.
Preventative care is another way to manage costs, as maintaining a pet's health can prevent expensive issues. For example, 50% of dogs are overweight or obese, according to UK Pet Food, leading to costly health problems. Some vets offer pricing plans for regular treatments like vaccinations, which may be cheaper than individual payments.
For those struggling with vet bill costs, financial aid may be available. Charities like the RSPCA, Blue Cross, and People's Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) offer free or low-cost care to individuals receiving means-tested benefits, such as Housing Support or Jobseekers Allowance.