Last updated: September 2026
Quick answer: A vet prescription fee in the UK is being capped at £21 for the first medicine in a consultation and £12.50 for each additional medicine, including VAT, under the Competition and Markets Authority’s reforms. Before the cap, fees averaged around £20 but varied widely. A written prescription lets you buy your pet’s medicine from an online pharmacy, which often saves money on long-term medication. Your vet must now tell you that you can ask for one.
This guide explains how written prescriptions work, what the new rules mean and when buying online is worth it.
The new prescription fee cap
The CMA published its final decision on the vet market on 24 March 2026. Written prescription fees will be capped at £21 for the first medication prescribed in a consultation and £12.50 for each additional medication in the same consultation. The cap includes VAT and will be adjusted each year for inflation.
The CMA had originally proposed a lower cap of £16, but raised it to £21 after feedback from vets, noting a market average of around £20. Practices charging more than £21 must reduce their fees when the rules apply to them.
Your right to a written prescription
Under the reforms, practices must tell you, in writing and in person at points before, during and after consultations, that you can ask for a written prescription and that medicines may be cheaper elsewhere. The CMA gives larger businesses 9 months and smaller ones 12 months from when its Order is in place to put this into practice. See your rights after the CMA vet review.
When buying online saves money
| Situation | Is a written prescription worth it? |
|---|---|
| Long-term medication, such as for arthritis, allergies, heart disease or epilepsy | Usually yes: the fee is paid once per prescription, and savings accumulate every month |
| Regular prescription flea, tick and worm treatment | Often yes, especially with a prescription covering several months |
| A short course of antibiotics or pain relief | Often not: the fee may cancel out the saving |
| Urgent treatment needed today | No: take the medicine from the practice |
Work it out for your pet: compare the practice’s price for the full course with the online price plus the prescription fee and delivery.
How to use a written prescription
- Ask your vet for a written prescription at the consultation.
- Ask for the longest sensible duration. For stable, long-term conditions, a prescription covering several months spreads the fee. Your vet decides what is clinically appropriate.
- Choose a reputable UK online pharmacy and send the prescription as instructed.
- Keep up with re-checks. Vets need to examine pets on long-term medication regularly before re-prescribing.
Are practice prices always more expensive?
Not always. Some practices discount medicines for health plan members, and some claim prices that compete with online pharmacies. Compare the full cost for your pet before switching; see vet health plans.
Does pet insurance pay for prescriptions?
For a covered illness or injury, medication is usually part of the claim, minus your excess. Routine preventive products, such as flea and worm treatments, are not covered. See does pet insurance cover routine care? and flea and worming costs.
Frequently asked questions
How much is a vet prescription fee?
Under the CMA cap, no more than £21 for the first medicine and £12.50 for each additional medicine in the same consultation, including VAT.
Can my vet refuse to give me a written prescription?
Vets must tell you that you can request one. They may need to examine your pet before prescribing.
Is it safe to buy pet medicines online?
Yes, from reputable UK pharmacies that require a valid prescription for prescription-only medicines.
When do the new rules apply?
They are being phased in after the CMA’s Order, with different timescales for larger and smaller businesses.
Key takeaways
- Written prescription fees are capped at £21, plus £12.50 for each extra medicine.
- Your vet must tell you that you can get a written prescription.
- Buying online usually saves most on long-term medication.
- Compare the full cost, including the fee and delivery, before switching.
This guide is general information, not veterinary advice. Your vet decides what is clinically appropriate for your pet.