RALEIGH, N.C. (WECT) – North Carolina Attorney General Jeff Jackson is joining a lawsuit to block a proposed merger between two major veterinary supply distributors, warning the deal could raise costs for veterinarians and pet owners.
Covetrus plans to buy MWI for $3.5 billion. The companies distribute medications, equipment, software and other veterinary products and are among only three businesses capable of supplying a full range of products to clinics nationwide, according to Jackson’s office.
The lawsuit argues that combining the companies would reduce competition, leaving clinics with fewer suppliers to choose from and less ability to negotiate prices. Higher supply costs could then be passed on to pet owners, Jackson said.
“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,” Jackson said.
More than 3 million North Carolina households have pets.. In 2025, dog owners reported spending an average of nearly $600 on veterinary care, while cat owners spent about $530, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association.
The SPCA of Wake County said more than 1,000 pet owners contact the organization each year seeking affordable veterinary services.
Jackson joined the Federal Trade Commission and attorneys general from 12 other states in asking a court to block the deal under federal antitrust law.
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