Intangible Assets (Schedule of Goodwill) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2012
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance, beginning	$ 1,370,247	$ 1,276,567
Net additions during the year	14,380	95,608
Translation	2,984	(1,928)
Balance, ending	1,387,611	1,370,247
Coopervision [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance, beginning	1,044,054	1,046,587
Net additions during the year	3,363	260
Translation	1,061	(2,793)
Balance, ending	1,048,478	1,044,054
CooperSurgical [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance, beginning	326,193	229,980
Net additions during the year	11,017	95,348
Translation	1,923	865
Balance, ending	$ 339,133	$ 326,193