- Salary statistics
- Veterinary assistant salary
Veterinary assistant salary
Latest available salary statistics are for 2025. Compare average pay, salary range and related job listings.
32 800 - 41 300 SEK / month
Women earn 100% of what men do.
Hälso- & sjukvård
Related tools
Salary progression Veterinary assistant
What does a veterinary assistant do? – Tasks and work environment
A veterinary assistant works closely with veterinarians and veterinary nurses to support treatment, examinations, and animal care. Tasks include assisting during surgeries and sampling, performing simpler medical treatments, feeding animals, and cleaning equipment and facilities. The role also involves administrative duties such as scheduling, record-keeping, and communicating with pet owners. The work environment is often dynamic and requires good stress management, as the workday can vary between urgent interventions and routine tasks at clinics, animal hospitals, or veterinary practices.
Salary development over time
The salary for veterinary assistants has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 30,200 SEK, followed by an increase to 33 400 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary is 34 800 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 10.6% over three years. This positive salary trend can be partly explained by increased focus on animal welfare, higher demand for qualified staff in animal care, as well as inflation and general salary adjustments in the industry. Although the salary increases have been relatively steady, gender differences remain clear, with men earning slightly more on average than women. The market demand for veterinary assistants and the national shortage of trained personnel have likely contributed to rising wages during this period.
Veterinary assistant salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 34 800 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 31,300 SEK/month (female, private sector, pre-secondary education)
- Highest salary: 40,300 SEK/month (male, private sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
- Average salary men: 34 700 SEK/month
- Average salary women: 34 800 SEK/month
- Women earn: 100% of men's salary
- Hourly wage (average): 201 SEK
Education and qualifications
Employers typically require a veterinary assistant to have completed a high school education with a focus on animals, often supplemented with vocational training or relevant courses in animal care. Formal requirements vary, but practical experience and good references are highly valued. Many employers also view certifications and specialized courses in veterinary medicine positively.
- High school education: Natural sciences program with animal focus (3 years)
- Vocational training: Animal care at level 2 or similar (1–2 years)
- Internships: Workplace-based learning or internships at animal clinics
- Courses/certificates: Specializations in veterinary care, first aid for animals
- Prerequisites: Interest in animals and good physical condition
Veterinary assistants encounter a wide variety of animal species daily, from pets to farm animals. The diversity of tasks makes each day different, contributing to a stimulating and educational work environment for those who enjoy variety and hands-on work.
Common benefits and compensations
Many veterinary assistants are offered benefits such as wellness allowances, extra vacation days, paid further training, and discounts on animal products. Some workplaces also provide access to occupational health services and flexible working hours, facilitating work-life balance.
Challenges and competition
The profession of veterinary assistant is characterized by high demand and good job opportunities nationwide. However, there are challenges, including recruitment difficulties and a relatively high proportion of part-time employment. Competition for the most attractive positions can be tough, especially at larger animal hospitals and clinics in urban areas. Physically demanding tasks, working during inconvenient hours, and emotionally taxing situations are other challenges that may occur. For those who are dedicated and flexible, there are good prospects for establishing and developing within the profession.
Tips for aspiring veterinary assistants
To succeed as a veterinary assistant, it is helpful to combine a genuine interest in animals with the ability to collaborate and communicate clearly with colleagues and pet owners. Attention to detail and responsibility are important qualities, especially in medication handling and documentation. Being resilient under pressure and maintaining good physical endurance greatly facilitates the workday. It is recommended to seek internships early to build experience, participate in relevant courses, and stay updated on new methods in animal care. Engagement, flexibility, and a willingness to learn are highly valued by employers in the industry.
Key facts about veterinary assistants
- Salary range: 31,300–40,300 SEK/month
- Education level: High school or vocational training
- Average salary: 34 800 SEK/month
- Work environment: Animal clinics, animal hospitals, or veterinary practices
- Demand: Great nationwide job opportunities
Career paths and future prospects
After a few years of experience, a veterinary assistant can develop into more specialized roles, such as a level 2 animal care worker, a supervisor within a clinic, or an instructor for new assistants. Some choose to further their education as veterinary nurses or veterinarians. Forecasts from the Employment Service indicate that job opportunities within the veterinary nurse profession and related fields are strong, and demand is expected to remain stable over the next five years. According to recent statistics, there are approximately 375 job openings in the profession, indicating good future prospects for those wishing to work as veterinary assistants.
Frequently asked questions about veterinary assistants
- What does a veterinary assistant earn?
- A veterinary assistant has an average salary of 34 800 SEK per month, with a range between 31,300 and 40,300 SEK. - What education is required to become a veterinary assistant?
- The most common is a high school education at the natural sciences program with an animal focus, sometimes supplemented with vocational training or courses in animal care. - Are there salary differences between men and women?
- Yes, men earn an average of 34 700 SEK and women 34 800 SEK, which means women earn 100% of men's salaries. - What is the job market like for veterinary assistants?
- Job opportunities are plentiful nationwide, with approximately 375 job openings in the profession. - What tasks does a veterinary assistant perform?
- Tasks include assisting with examinations and treatments, feeding animals, and handling administrative work. - What is the typical hourly wage for a veterinary assistant?
- The average hourly wage is 201 SEK based on 166 working hours per month. - What career opportunities are available?
- After a few years, there are opportunities to advance to supervisory roles, specialize, or further train as a veterinary nurse or veterinarian.
Salary distributed by age and sector
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 27400 kr | 29000 kr | |
| 25-34 | 31400 kr | 32900 kr | |
| 35-44 | 36200 kr | 37300 kr | |
| 45-54 | 37400 kr | 38300 kr | |
| 55-64 | 37500 kr | 38200 kr | |
| Snitt | 100% | 33500 kr | 34800 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 31500 kr | 31900 kr | |
| 25-34 | 108% | 35000 kr | 37200 kr |
| 35-44 | 99% | 35900 kr | 36600 kr |
| 45-54 | 97% | 36000 kr | 36600 kr |
| 55-64 | 105% | 38000 kr | 38400 kr |
| 65-68 | 70% | 47100 kr | 47400 kr |
| Snitt | 98% | 36600 kr | 37400 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 31500 kr | 31900 kr | |
| 25-34 | 108% | 35000 kr | 37200 kr |
| 35-44 | 99% | 35900 kr | 36600 kr |
| 45-54 | 97% | 36000 kr | 36600 kr |
| 55-64 | 105% | 38000 kr | 38400 kr |
| 65-68 | 70% | 47100 kr | 47400 kr |
| Snitt | 98% | 36600 kr | 37400 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 27300 kr | 28900 kr | |
| 25-34 | 31200 kr | 32700 kr | |
| 35-44 | 36200 kr | 37300 kr | |
| 45-54 | 37600 kr | 38600 kr | |
| 55-64 | 37400 kr | 38200 kr | |
| Snitt | 33300 kr | 34600 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 27300 kr | 28900 kr | |
| 25-34 | 31200 kr | 32700 kr | |
| 35-44 | 36200 kr | 37300 kr | |
| 45-54 | 37600 kr | 38600 kr | |
| 55-64 | 37400 kr | 38200 kr | |
| Snitt | 33300 kr | 34600 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 100% | 33700 kr | 34700 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 108% | 34500 kr | 34800 kr |
| 35-44 | 99% | 36100 kr | 36800 kr |
| 45-54 | 97% | 37200 kr | 37200 kr |
| 55-64 | 105% | 37200 kr | 37600 kr |
| 65-68 | 70% | 53300 kr | 53300 kr |
| Snitt | 98% | 37500 kr | 37800 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 108% | 34500 kr | 34800 kr |
| 35-44 | 99% | 36100 kr | 36800 kr |
| 45-54 | 97% | 37200 kr | 37200 kr |
| 55-64 | 105% | 37200 kr | 37600 kr |
| 65-68 | 70% | 53300 kr | 53300 kr |
| Snitt | 98% | 37500 kr | 37800 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 27500 kr | 29000 kr | |
| 25-34 | 31400 kr | 33000 kr | |
| 35-44 | 36300 kr | 37300 kr | |
| 45-54 | 37400 kr | 38500 kr | |
| 55-64 | 37500 kr | 38200 kr | |
| Snitt | 100% | 33500 kr | 34800 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 31300 kr | 31900 kr | |
| 25-34 | 108% | 35200 kr | 37700 kr |
| 35-44 | 99% | 35800 kr | 36500 kr |
| 45-54 | 97% | 35300 kr | 36200 kr |
| 55-64 | 105% | 38900 kr | 39400 kr |
| 65-68 | 70% | 36700 kr | 37500 kr |
| Snitt | 98% | 36000 kr | 37200 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 31300 kr | 31900 kr | |
| 25-34 | 108% | 35200 kr | 37700 kr |
| 35-44 | 99% | 35800 kr | 36500 kr |
| 45-54 | 97% | 35300 kr | 36200 kr |
| 55-64 | 105% | 38900 kr | 39400 kr |
| 65-68 | 70% | 36700 kr | 37500 kr |
| Snitt | 98% | 36000 kr | 37200 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 27500 kr | 29000 kr | |
| 25-34 | 31300 kr | 32800 kr | |
| 35-44 | 36300 kr | 37400 kr | |
| 45-54 | 37700 kr | 38700 kr | |
| 55-64 | 37400 kr | 38100 kr | |
| Snitt | 33400 kr | 34700 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 27500 kr | 29000 kr | |
| 25-34 | 31300 kr | 32800 kr | |
| 35-44 | 36300 kr | 37400 kr | |
| 45-54 | 37700 kr | 38700 kr | |
| 55-64 | 37400 kr | 38100 kr | |
| Snitt | 33400 kr | 34700 kr |
About the data
All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.
All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.
Profession Veterinary assistant has the SSYK code 3240, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.
-
Licensed Veterinary Technician for Equine Department, SLU
Veterinary nurses etc.
Sun, 5 Jul 2026 - 06:26 -
Qualified Veterinary Nurse for Modern Small Animal Clinic – Anesthesia & Surgery
Veterinary nurses etc.
Mon, 29 Jun 2026 - 21:28 -
Licensed Veterinary Nurse for Ludvika (Full-time/Temporary)
Veterinary nurses etc.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026 - 23:02 -
Veterinary Nurse at the University Animal Hospital in Uppsala
Veterinary nurses etc.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026 - 00:45 -
Animal Care Specialist at University Veterinary Hospital in Uppsala
Veterinary nurses etc.
Tue, 23 Jun 2026 - 23:34
Compare salary, work tasks and job outlook in adjacent occupations to find roles with similar skills or pay levels.
-
Care assistant, at home salary
Average salary: 29 600 SEK/month • Hälso- & sjukvård
Care assistants
Compare with Veterinary assistant
Sat, 4 Jul 2026 - 17:00 -
Average salary: 98 000 SEK/month • Hälso- & sjukvård
Specialist doctors
Compare with Veterinary assistant
Sat, 4 Jul 2026 - 23:54 -
Average salary: 44 900 SEK/month • Hälso- & sjukvård
Occupational health nurses
Compare with Veterinary assistant
Sat, 4 Jul 2026 - 03:18 -
Nursing assistant, mentally disabled salary
Average salary: 29 600 SEK/month • Hälso- & sjukvård
Care assistants
Compare with Veterinary assistant
Sat, 4 Jul 2026 - 18:17 -
Ambulance driver, paramedic salary
Average salary: 39 500 SEK/month • Hälso- & sjukvård
Ambulance care staff
Compare with Veterinary assistant
Sun, 5 Jul 2026 - 04:59 -
Average salary: 54 800 SEK/month • Hälso- & sjukvård
Veterinarians
Compare with Veterinary assistant
Sat, 4 Jul 2026 - 18:00