How we research prices
Price information in the UK veterinary market has historically been hard to find. The Competition and Markets Authority concluded its market investigation in March 2026 with reforms including standardised price lists and a price comparison website. This page explains where our figures come from and what they mean.
Our sources
- Published practice price lists. Prices published by veterinary practices and groups on their own websites.
- Official data. Findings from the Competition and Markets Authority, and claims data from the Association of British Insurers.
- Charity and professional bodies. Guidance published by organisations such as the PDSA.
- Insurer policy documents. Terms, exclusions and limits taken directly from policy wordings.
What our figures mean
- Prices are shown as ranges, not quotes. What you pay depends on your practice, your region, your pet’s size and weight, and the complications of each case.
- Quoted prices usually exclude follow-up appointments, medication and complications unless we say otherwise.
- Referral and out-of-hours treatment costs more than a routine appointment at your own practice.
- Insurance figures describe typical market practice. Your own policy wording always takes precedence.
What we can’t tell you
We cannot tell you what your vet will charge. Only your practice can do that. Under the CMA reforms, practices are required to publish price lists for common services, and you are entitled to ask for a written estimate before treatment.
Help us improve. If you have a recent invoice or a practice price list you’re willing to share, send it to contact@vetcostguide.co.uk . We never publish personal details.