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, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Consolidated Income Net Of Tax Excluding Portion Attributable To Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests									$ 137,848	$ 139,686	$ 48,199
Calculation of Basic and Diluted Earnings per Share
Net income attributable to VCA Inc.	$ 28,359	$ 27,452	$ 45,584	$ 34,043	$ 24,717	$ 40,647	$ 41,662	$ 30,485	$ 135,438	$ 137,511	$ 45,551
Weighted-average common shares outstanding:
Basic (shares)									86,656	88,621	87,681
Effect of dilutive potential common stock:
Stock options (shares)									302	305	479
Nonvested shares and units (shares)									867	737	511
Diluted (shares)									87,825	89,663	88,671
Basic earnings per common share (USD per share)	$ 0.34	$ 0.32	$ 0.52	$ 0.39	$ 0.28	$ 0.46	$ 0.47	$ 0.34	$ 1.56	$ 1.55	$ 0.52
Diluted earnings per common share (USD per share)	$ 0.33	$ 0.31	$ 0.51	$ 0.38	$ 0.28	$ 0.45	$ 0.46	$ 0.34	$ 1.54	$ 1.53	$ 0.51