How much do vets cost in Germany, and how are prices set?
Vet fees are set by an official fee scale (GOT). A practice can charge between 1 and 3 times the scale rate for a service. At night, at weekends and on public holidays, at least twice the rate plus a €50 (net) emergency fee applies.
Official fee scale: In Germany, what vets can charge is set by a regulation: the Fee Scale for Veterinarians (Gebührenordnung für Tierärzte, GOT). It sets a base rate for each service. A practice can't charge less than 1 times this rate and normally no more than 3 times. VAT is added.
Examples (base rate, excluding VAT): A general examination for a dog or cat costs €23.62, an injection €11.50. Many fees rose significantly with the update in November 2022. Even routine procedures such as vaccinations or neutering can add up to hundreds of euros.
Out of hours: At night, at weekends and on public holidays, vets charge at least 2 and at most 4 times the rate, plus a €50 (net) emergency fee (Notdienstgebühr).
Payment: Your own health insurance doesn't cover vet bills. You usually pay straight after the visit by card or cash. If you have pet health or surgery insurance, you send the bill to the insurer afterwards.
Tip: Before planned treatment or surgery, ask for a written cost estimate (Kostenvoranschlag). The Federal Chamber of Veterinarians also recommends discussing costs before the examination.
Where you can get help
- Gebührenordnung für Tierärzte (GOT), § 4
The official fee scale for vets in Germany and the rules for fees during out-of-hours emergency service.
- Tierärztekammer Berlin: Tierärztlicher Notdienst
Up-to-date list of vet practices and clinics open in Berlin at night, at weekends and on public holidays.
This information is based on community experience and is not legal advice. Rules can change; check important things with the responsible office.