What Do Vets Wear? | Infectious Clothing
What Do Vets Wear? A Complete Guide to Veterinary Uniforms in Australia
Veterinarians and vet nurses work in one of the most physically demanding and varied healthcare environments. From consult rooms to farm visits, emergency cases to routine check-ups, uniforms need to support comfort, hygiene, protection and professionalism.
This guide explores what vets wear in different settings, how uniforms vary by role, and why scrubs have become the #1 choice for modern veterinary teams.
Looking for the ultimate breakdown of the best scrubs for vets? Read our updated Veterinary Scrubs Guide here →
Why Veterinary Uniforms Matter
Unlike hospital environments where conditions are consistent, veterinary work presents constantly changing situations — muddy paws, shedding fur, large animals, unexpected movements, and exposure to bodily fluids. A vet’s uniform must balance:
- Ease of movement for lifting and handling animals
- Hygiene to maintain clinical standards
- Durability for long shifts and frequent washing
- Professional presentation for client confidence
- Safety & protection against scratches, bites or chemicals
This is why most vets and vet nurses choose a combination of scrubs, lab coats, protective gear and practical footwear depending on their daily tasks.
Common Uniform Items Worn by Vets & Vet Nurses
Veterinary uniforms can vary widely across clinics, hospitals and mobile practices. Most teams wear a combination of the following:
1. Scrubs
Scrubs are the most common uniform choice for vets and vet nurses. They’re comfortable, easy to clean and perfect for hands-on work with animals.
Explore our full range of Veterinary Scrubs.
2. Scrubs with a Lab Coat
Ideal for consultations or surgical settings, lab coats add an extra layer of professionalism and protection.
3. Scrubs with Long-Sleeve Undershirts
Vets working with large or unpredictable animals often wear a breathable long-sleeve layer under their scrubs for scratch protection.
4. Khakis or Clinical Trousers with a Button-Up Shirt
Some vets prefer a semi-formal look when meeting clients, especially in specialist or administrative roles.
5. Coveralls
Used for farm calls, equine work or large-animal settings where dirt, weather or chemicals are involved.
6. Footwear: Trainers or Clinical Shoes
Good grip and comfort are essential. Shoes should be closed-toe, non-slip and supportive.
7. Farm Boots
For outdoor or rural work involving livestock, boots provide necessary protection and stability.
8. PPE / Protective Gear
- Gloves
- Face masks
- Goggles or face shields
- Disposable gowns
- Arm guards or bite-resistant sleeves
Why Scrubs Are So Popular in Veterinary Medicine
While vets may wear different uniforms throughout the day, scrubs remain the foundation of most veterinary dress codes. Here’s why:
1. Comfort and Movement
Scrubs are designed for bending, lifting, crouching and quick movement — perfect for busy clinic workflows.
2. Easy to Clean
Veterinary environments are messy. Scrubs made from modern fabrics wash easily, dry quickly and withstand repeated laundering.
3. Animal Hair Resistance
Certain ranges like Wink W123 feature fabric blends that repel fur and lint, keeping teams looking clean.
4. Professional Team Appearance
Matching scrubs create a polished, unified look that clients naturally associate with trust and care.
5. Cost-Effective
Scrubs are affordable compared to traditional corporate-style uniforms — ideal for clinics with large teams.
What Vets Wear in Different Settings
Clinic Consult Rooms
Most vets and nurses wear scrubs in navy, black or teal to maintain a clean, consistent look.
Surgery / Procedures
Special surgical scrubs or lab coats are often worn, along with PPE such as masks, gloves and protective eyewear.
Farm or Large Animal Work
Coveralls, boots and scratch-resistant PPE are essential for safety and comfort in outdoor or unpredictable environments.
Emergency Veterinary Care
Lightweight, moisture-wicking scrubs are preferred for long shifts and high-movement environments.
Professional Touch: Embroidered Veterinary Uniforms
A clean, branded uniform builds trust with pet owners and reinforces your clinic’s identity. Our in-house embroidery service allows teams to add:
- Clinic logos
- Staff names
- Job titles (e.g., Vet Nurse, Head Vet, Reception Team)
Learn more about our embroidery services →
Durable, comfortable and professional uniforms designed for Australian vet teams.
FAQs: What Do Vets Wear?
Do vets have a dress code?
Most clinics provide guidelines around colours, safety requirements, footwear and grooming. Scrubs are the most common standard.
Do vets always wear scrubs?
Yes, in hands-on clinical settings. Some vets switch to casual wear or business attire for office work or client meetings.
What colours do vets usually wear?
Navy, black, charcoal and teal are the most popular — they hide hair and stains while looking professional.
Are scrubs mandatory in veterinary medicine?
They’re not always mandatory, but they are the preferred uniform because they’re hygienic, comfortable and protective.
Which scrubs are best for vets?
Wink W123, Wink Boundless, Cherokee and Dickies are popular for their durability, stretch and easy-care fabrics.
If you want a deeper comparison of fabrics, colours and the best scrub ranges for vets, don’t miss our comprehensive guide:
