Discover how much you can save by comparing loans, credit cards, insurance, online brokers, savings accounts, and electricity contracts. Switching might be easier than you think!
Keep more money in your pocket
- Salary statistics
- Veterinary assistant salary
Veterinary assistant salary
33 400 SEK
Latest available salary statistics are for 2024. Compare average pay, salary range and related job listings.
31 300 - 40 300 SEK / month
Women earn 97% of what men do.
Hälso- & sjukvård
Average salary
33 400 SEK/month
Monthly gross salary
Salary range
31 300 - 40 300 SEK
Latest available range
Data year
2024
Latest published dataset
Related tools
Salary progression Veterinary assistant
Average salary
33 400 kr
Males
34 500 kr
Females
33 300 kr
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 31 800 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary is 33 400 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: 33 400 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: 34 500 SEK/month
- Average salary women: 33 300 SEK/month
- Women earn: 97% 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: 33 400 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 33 400 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 34 500 SEK and women 33 300 SEK, which means women earn 97% 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.
Occupation
Who has the highest salary?
The highest salary for a Veterinary assistant is 40300 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Privately employed workers with a post-secondary education, 3 years or more. The highest salary for a woman in this profession is 37100 kr.
Who has the lowest salary?
The lowest salary for a Veterinary assistant is 31300 kr. This salary belongs to a woman also working in the Privately employed workers. The lowest salary for a man in this profession is 34100 kr.
Salary distributed by age and sector
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 27000 kr | 28200 kr | |
| 25-34 | 30500 kr | 31600 kr | |
| 35-44 | 34500 kr | 35300 kr | |
| 45-54 | 35400 kr | 36200 kr | |
| 55-64 | 35600 kr | 36100 kr | |
| Snitt | 97% | 32500 kr | 33400 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 30300 kr | 30900 kr | |
| 25-34 | 103% | 34500 kr | 35100 kr |
| 35-44 | 100% | 34900 kr | 35600 kr |
| 45-54 | 99% | 36200 kr | 36600 kr |
| 55-64 | 100% | 35700 kr | 36100 kr |
| 65-68 | 45900 kr | 50000 kr | |
| Snitt | 98% | 35500 kr | 36000 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 30300 kr | 30900 kr | |
| 25-34 | 103% | 34500 kr | 35100 kr |
| 35-44 | 100% | 34900 kr | 35600 kr |
| 45-54 | 99% | 36200 kr | 36600 kr |
| 55-64 | 100% | 35700 kr | 36100 kr |
| 65-68 | 45900 kr | 50000 kr | |
| Snitt | 98% | 35500 kr | 36000 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 26900 kr | 28200 kr | |
| 25-34 | 30300 kr | 31500 kr | |
| 35-44 | 34500 kr | 35200 kr | |
| 45-54 | 35300 kr | 36200 kr | |
| 55-64 | 35600 kr | 36100 kr | |
| Snitt | 32300 kr | 33200 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 26900 kr | 28200 kr | |
| 25-34 | 30300 kr | 31500 kr | |
| 35-44 | 34500 kr | 35200 kr | |
| 45-54 | 35300 kr | 36200 kr | |
| 55-64 | 35600 kr | 36100 kr | |
| Snitt | 32300 kr | 33200 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 97% | 33800 kr | 34500 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 103% | 34100 kr | 34300 kr |
| 35-44 | 100% | 34600 kr | 35600 kr |
| 45-54 | 99% | 36800 kr | 36900 kr |
| 55-64 | 100% | 35700 kr | 36100 kr |
| 65-68 | 50900 kr | 51300 kr | |
| Snitt | 98% | 36000 kr | 36500 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 103% | 34100 kr | 34300 kr |
| 35-44 | 100% | 34600 kr | 35600 kr |
| 45-54 | 99% | 36800 kr | 36900 kr |
| 55-64 | 100% | 35700 kr | 36100 kr |
| 65-68 | 50900 kr | 51300 kr | |
| Snitt | 98% | 36000 kr | 36500 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 27000 kr | 28200 kr | |
| 25-34 | 30500 kr | 31600 kr | |
| 35-44 | 34700 kr | 35400 kr | |
| 45-54 | 35400 kr | 36300 kr | |
| 55-64 | 35200 kr | 35800 kr | |
| Snitt | 97% | 32400 kr | 33300 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 30000 kr | 30600 kr | |
| 25-34 | 103% | 34600 kr | 35300 kr |
| 35-44 | 100% | 35000 kr | 35600 kr |
| 45-54 | 99% | 35900 kr | 36500 kr |
| 55-64 | 100% | 35800 kr | 36200 kr |
| Snitt | 98% | 35100 kr | 35700 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 30000 kr | 30600 kr | |
| 25-34 | 103% | 34600 kr | 35300 kr |
| 35-44 | 100% | 35000 kr | 35600 kr |
| 45-54 | 99% | 35900 kr | 36500 kr |
| 55-64 | 100% | 35800 kr | 36200 kr |
| Snitt | 98% | 35100 kr | 35700 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 27000 kr | 28200 kr | |
| 25-34 | 30400 kr | 31500 kr | |
| 35-44 | 34600 kr | 35400 kr | |
| 45-54 | 35400 kr | 36300 kr | |
| 55-64 | 35200 kr | 35700 kr | |
| Snitt | 32200 kr | 33200 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 27000 kr | 28200 kr | |
| 25-34 | 30400 kr | 31500 kr | |
| 35-44 | 34600 kr | 35400 kr | |
| 45-54 | 35400 kr | 36300 kr | |
| 55-64 | 35200 kr | 35700 kr | |
| Snitt | 32200 kr | 33200 kr |
Salary per sector
Salary based on education
Register an account before you can comment
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.
Vacant jobs
-
Registered Veterinary Nurse/Animal Caretaker with Anesthesia Competence at Alingsås Animal Hospital
Veterinary nurses etc.
Tue, 9 Jun 2026 - 09:44 -
Registered Veterinary Nurse/Animal Caretaker Level 3 at Animed Cityveterinären Malmö
Veterinary nurses etc.
Thu, 4 Jun 2026 - 23:22 -
Anesthesia Specialist for Private Dental Clinic in Stallarholmen
Veterinary nurses etc.
Mon, 1 Jun 2026 - 06:25
Similar occupations
Compare salary, work tasks and job outlook in adjacent occupations to find roles with similar skills or pay levels.
-
Average salary: 43 800 SEK/month • Hälso- & sjukvård
Occupational health nurses
Compare with Veterinary assistant
Sun, 14 Jun 2026 - 19:20 -
Average salary: 46 900 SEK/month • Hälso- & sjukvård
Psychiatric nurses
Compare with Veterinary assistant
Mon, 15 Jun 2026 - 06:02 -
Home care staff, assistant nurse salary
Average salary: 32 800 SEK/month • Hälso- & sjukvård
Assistant nurses, home care, nursing homes etc.
Compare with Veterinary assistant
Mon, 15 Jun 2026 - 03:44 -
Average salary: 93 600 SEK/month • Hälso- & sjukvård
Specialist doctors
Compare with Veterinary assistant
Sun, 14 Jun 2026 - 03:39 -
Average salary: 43 900 SEK/month • Hälso- & sjukvård
Registered nurses
Compare with Veterinary assistant
Sun, 14 Jun 2026 - 14:17 -
Average salary: 42 400 SEK/month • Hälso- & sjukvård
Radiology nurses
Compare with Veterinary assistant
Mon, 15 Jun 2026 - 04:44
Latest posts
-
Up to 25% off experiences for mom – Celebrate Mother’s Day with Live it
Tue, 26 May 2026 - 12:00
Salary, Taxes, and Fees
Net salary
31 390
Net salary
31 390
Taxes
11 718
Fees
12 582