Attorney General Jeff Jackson Sues to Stop Merger that Could Raise Pet Owners’ Bills

Nearly 80% of North Carolina households own pets, and this unlawful merger could raise prices for their care

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday, November 13, 2026
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Download Attorney General Jackson's video here.

RALEIGH - Attorney General Jeff Jackson is suing to block a merger between the nation's two largest veterinary supply distributors, warning that the deal could lead to higher prices at veterinary clinics and bigger bills for North Carolina pet owners.

"Pet owners are already paying hundreds of dollars a year for veterinary care. The last thing they need is two giant companies merging so they can charge veterinarians more, knowing those costs will get passed along to pet owners," said Attorney General Jeff Jackson. "This unlawful merger would raise prices for pet owners, and we're going to court to stop it."

Covetrus and MWI are the nation's two largest distributors of veterinary supplies, including medications, equipment, and software. They are two of only three companies in the country capable of supplying a full range of veterinary products to clinics nationwide.

Right now, the companies compete for business. When a veterinary clinic is looking for a supplier, it can negotiate with both companies to get a better price. Covetrus and MWI regularly offer discounts and other incentives to win customers from each other.

That competition helps keep costs down.

But now Covetrus wants to buy MWI in a $3.5 billion deal. The merger would eliminate one of the largest competitors in an already concentrated market, leaving veterinary clinics with fewer options and less bargaining power. They'll have to pay more for clinic equipment, and they'll have to pass those costs on to pet owners.

"Basic veterinary care shouldn't be a luxury," said Mondy Lamb, Vice President of Donor & External Relations at SPCA of Wake County. "Vaccinations, spay/neuter surgery, and treatment for sick or injured pets are essential services that every pet owner should be able to afford."

Impact on Pet Owners

More than 3 million North Carolina households own pets, and veterinary care is already a substantial expense. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, dog owners reported spending an average of nearly $600 on veterinary care in 2025, while cat owners spent about $530.

If the merger goes through, veterinary clinics could face higher prices for the medications and supplies they need. If vets have to pay more for supplies, pet owners will have to pay more for vet visits. The SPCA of Wake County reports that more than 1,000 pet owners reach out annually looking for affordable veterinary services.

Attorney General Jackson, the Federal Trade Commission, and the attorneys general of Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, New York, Ohio, Oregon, and Texas are jointly asking the court to block the merger under federal antitrust law.

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