Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details 7) (USD $) In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2012	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Calculation of Basic and Diluted Earnings per Share
Net income attributable to VCA Antech, Inc.	$ 24,717	$ 40,647	$ 41,662	$ 30,485	$ (58,051)	$ 34,037	$ 34,320	$ 35,245	$ 137,511	$ 45,551	$ 95,405
Weighted-average common shares outstanding:
Basic									88,621	87,681	86,606
Effect of dilutive potential common stock:
Stock options									305	479	560
Nonvested shares									737	511	228
Diluted									89,663	88,671	87,394
Basic earnings per common share	$ 0.28	$ 0.46	$ 0.47	$ 0.34	$ (0.66)	$ 0.39	$ 0.39	$ 0.41	$ 1.55	$ 0.52	$ 1.10
Diluted earnings per common share	$ 0.28	$ 0.45	$ 0.46	$ 0.34	$ (0.66)	$ 0.38	$ 0.39	$ 0.40	$ 1.53	$ 0.51	$ 1.09