Schedule of Investments [Abstract] Debt Securities, Available-for-sale [Table] Debt Securities, Available-for-sale [Table] Financial Instrument [Axis] Financial Instrument [Axis] Financial Instruments [Domain] Financial Instruments [Domain] Municipal Bonds US Treasury and Government [Member] Corporate Bonds Corporate Debt Securities [Member] Debt Securities, Available-for-sale [Line Items] Debt Securities, Available-for-sale [Line Items] Debt Securities Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Amortized Cost Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax Debt Securities, Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Maturity, Allocated and Single Maturity Date, within One Year, Fair Value Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Maturity, Allocated and Single Maturity Date, within One Year, Fair Value Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Maturity, Allocated and Single Maturity Date, after One Through Five Years, Fair Value Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Maturity, Allocated and Single Maturity Date, after One Through Five Years, Fair Value Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Maturity, Allocated and Single Maturity Date, after Five Years, Fair Value Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Maturity, Allocated and Single Maturity Date, after Five Years, Fair Value Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Maturity, Allocated and Single Maturity Date, after Five Years, Fair Value Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Maturity, Allocated and Single Maturity Date, Fair Value Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Maturity, Allocated and Single Maturity Date, Fair Value Cover page. Document Quarterly Report Document Quarterly Report Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Document Transition Report Document Transition Report Entity File Number Entity File Number Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code Entity Tax Identification Number Entity Tax Identification Number Entity Address, Address Line One Entity Address, Address Line One Entity Address, City or Town Entity Address, City or Town Entity Address, State or Province Entity Address, State or Province Entity Address, Postal Zip Code Entity Address, Postal Zip Code City Area Code City Area Code Local Phone Number Local Phone Number Title of 12(b) Security Title of 12(b) Security Trading Symbol Trading Symbol Security Exchange Name Security Exchange Name Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Interactive Data Current Entity Interactive Data Current Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Small Business Entity Small Business Entity Emerging Growth Company Entity Emerging Growth Company Entity Shell Company Entity Shell Company Entity common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Document Type Document Type Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Share-based Payment Arrangement [Abstract] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Abaxis Inc Abaxis Inc [Member] Abaxis Inc [Member] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Domain] Award Type [Domain] Stock options Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option [Member] Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Performance Shares Performance Shares [Member] Statistical Measurement [Axis] Statistical Measurement [Axis] Statistical Measurement [Domain] Statistical Measurement [Domain] Minimum Minimum [Member] Maximum Maximum [Member] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] PeerCompanies Peer Companies [Member] Peer Companies [Member] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based compensation, options granted, shares Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross Share-based compensation, weighted average exercise price (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Share-based compensation, Options, weighted average grant date fair value (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share-based compensation, risk free interest rate Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate Share-based compensation, expected dividend rate Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Dividend Rate Share-based compensation, expected volatility rate Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate Share-based compensation, expected term Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term Share-based compensation, award vesting period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period Share-based compensation, granted, shares Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Share-based compensation, weighted average grant date fair value (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share-based compensation, target number of units percentage Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Target Number of Units, Percentage Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Target Number of Units, Percentage Financial Instruments [Abstract] Financial Instruments [Abstract] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Domain] Hedging Designation [Domain] Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments: Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Contract [Domain] Derivative Contract [Domain] Interest rate swaps Interest Rate Swap [Member] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Senior Notes Senior Notes [Member] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Senior notes due 2018 Senior Notes Due 2018 [Member] Senior Notes Due 2018 [Member] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Long-term debt current portion Long-term Debt, Current Maturities 2019 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two 2020 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three 2021 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four 2022 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five After 2022 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five Total long-term debt Long-term Debt, Gross Interest expense, net of capitalized interest Interest Expense Capitalized interest Interest Costs Capitalized Revenue Recognition and Deferred Revenue [Abstract] Revenue from External Customers by Products and Services [Table] Revenue from External Customers by Products and Services [Table] Product and Service [Axis] Product and Service [Axis] Product and Service [Domain] Product and Service [Domain] Cattle Cattle [Member] Cattle [Member] Swine Swine [Member] Swine [Member] Poultry Poultry [Member] Poultry [Member] Fish Fish [Member] Fish [Member] Other Manufactured Product, Other [Member] Livestock Livestock [Member] Livestock [Member] Horses Dogs and Cats [Member] Dogs and Cats [Member] Horses Horses [Member] Horses [Member] Companion animal Companion Animal [Member] Companion Animal [Member] Revenue from External Customer [Line Items] Revenue from External Customer [Line Items] Revenue Revenues Segment Reporting [Abstract] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Restructuring Type [Axis] Restructuring Type [Axis] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Employee Termination Costs Employee Severance [Member] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Domain] Geographical [Domain] China CHINA Europe Europe [Member] Restructuring Plan [Axis] Restructuring Plan [Axis] Restructuring Plan [Domain] Restructuring Plan [Domain] Zoetis Initiatives Zoetis Initiatives [Member] Zoetis Initiatives [Member] Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Segments [Domain] Segments [Domain] International International Segment [Member] International Segment [Member] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Domain] Consolidation Items [Domain] Operating Segments Operating Segments [Member] Reconciling Items Segment Reconciling Items [Member] Currency [Axis] Currency [Axis] All Currencies [Domain] All Currencies [Domain] Euro Member Countries, Euro Euro Member Countries, Euro Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Contingent payment received related to sale of certain U.S. manufacturing sites Proceeds from Sale of Buildings Inventory Adjustments Inventory Adjustments Restructuring and Other Cost Productivity Charges Restructuring and Other Cost Productivity Charges Restructuring and Other Cost Productivity Charges Provision Restructuring Charges Employee termination costs Severance Costs Net Gain on Relocation Net Gain on Relocation Net Gain on Relocation Disposal Group, Not Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal Disposal Group, Not Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal Consulting fees and exit costs Consulting Fees and Exit Costs Consulting Fees and Exit Costs Accounting Policies [Abstract] Accounting Standards Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Allowance for doubtful accounts Accounts Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss, Current Accumulated depreciation Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Preferred stock, par value (in dollars per share) Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Preferred stock, shares authorized Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Preferred stock, shares issued Preferred Stock, Shares Issued Common stock, par value (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common stock, shares authorized Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common stock issued, shares Common Stock, Shares, Issued Common stock, shares outstanding Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Treasury stock, shares Treasury Stock, Shares Number of major product categories Number of Major Product Categories Number of Major Product Categories Other current liabilities Contract with Customer, Liability, Current Contract liabilities Contract with Customer, Liability Leases [Abstract] Leases Leases of Lessee Disclosure [Text Block] Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Net deferred income tax liability Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net Noncurrent deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance, Noncurrent Noncurrent deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross, Noncurrent Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Schedule of Product Information [Table] Schedule of Product Information [Table] Product Product [Member] Product Information [Line Items] Product Information [Line Items] Number of regional segments Number of Regional Segments Number of Regional Segments Number of countries in which entity markets products Number of Countries in which Entity Operates Number of core animal species Number of Core Animal Species Marketed Number of Core Animal Species Marketed Income Tax Contingency [Table] Income Tax Contingency [Table] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Noncurrent Deferred Tax Assets Noncurrent Deferred Tax Assets [Member] Noncurrent Deferred Tax Assets [Member] Other Taxes Payable Other Taxes Payable [Member] Other Taxes Payable [Member] Income Tax Contingency [Line Items] Income Tax Contingency [Line Items] Liabilities associated with uncertain tax positions Unrecognized Tax Benefits Unrecognized tax benefits, income tax penalties and interest accrued Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Accrued Number of operating segments Number of Operating Segments Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Gross goodwill Goodwill, Gross Accumulated goodwill impairment losses Goodwill, Impaired, Accumulated Impairment Loss Amortization of intangible assets Amortization of Intangible Assets Revenue from External Customers by Geographic Areas Revenue from External Customers by Geographic Areas [Table Text Block] Revenue from External Customers by Major Species Revenue from External Customers by Major Species [Table Text Block] Revenue from External Customers by Major Species Revenue from External Customers by Species Revenue from External Customers by Species [Table Text Block] Revenue from External Customers by Species Schedule of Significant Product Revenues Revenue from External Customers by Products and Services [Table Text Block] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Foreign Currency Fair Value Hedge Derivative [Table] Foreign Currency Fair Value Hedge Derivative [Table] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Foreign Currency Fair Value Hedge Derivative [Line Items] Foreign Currency Fair Value Hedge Derivative [Line Items] Unrecognized net gains/(losses) on cross-currency interest rate swap contracts, recorded, net of tax Gain (Loss) on Derivative Used in Net Investment Hedge, after Tax Line of Credit Facility [Table] Line of Credit Facility [Table] Operational Efficiency [Member] Operational Efficiency [Member] Operational Efficiency [Member] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Domain] Credit Facility [Domain] Revolving Credit Facility Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Line of Credit Facility [Line Items] Line of Credit Facility [Line Items] Maximum total leverage ratio Line of Credit Facility, Covenant Compliance, Maximum Leverage Ratio Line of Credit Facility, Covenant Compliance, Maximum Leverage Ratio Revolving credit facility, current borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Current Borrowing Capacity Line of credit facility, maximum borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Covenant Compliance Maximum Restructuring Charges Add Back Covenant Compliance Maximum Restructuring Charges Add Back Covenant Compliance Maximum Restructuring Charges Add Back Revolving credit facility, covenant compliance ratio Line of Credit Facility Covenant Compliance Interest Leverage Ratio Thereafter Line of Credit Facility Covenant Compliance Interest Leverage Ratio Thereafter Maximum total leverage ratio Line of Credit Facility, Covenant Compliance, Maximum Leverage Ratio, Next Twelve Months Line of Credit Facility, Covenant Compliance, Maximum Leverage Ratio, Next Twelve Months Maximum restructuring charges to adjusted consolidated EBITDA Line of Credit Facility, Covenant Compliance, Maximum Restructuring Charges to Adjusted Consolidated EBITDA Line of Credit Facility, Covenant Compliance, Maximum Restructuring Charges to Adjusted Consolidated EBITDA Revolving credit facility, minimum interest coverage ratio Line of Credit Facility, Covenant Compliance, Minimum Interest Coverage Ratio Line of Credit Facility, Covenant Compliance, Minimum Interest Coverage Ratio Line of credit facility Long-term Line of Credit Commercial Paper Commercial Paper Derivative [Table] Derivative [Table] Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Energy [Axis] Energy [Axis] Energy [Domain] Energy [Domain] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Domain] Variable Rate [Domain] Foreign Exchange Contract Foreign Exchange Forward [Member] Cross-currency interest rate swap contracts Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member] Position [Axis] Position [Axis] Position [Domain] Position [Domain] Derivative [Line Items] Derivative [Line Items] Derivative notional amount Derivative, Notional Amount Derivative, Number of Instruments Held Derivative, Number of Instruments Held Basis of Presentation Basis of Accounting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Recently Adopted Accounting Standards and Recently Issued Accounting Standards New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Tax Contingencies Income Tax Uncertainties, Policy [Policy Text Block] Foreign Exchange and Interest Rate Risk Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block] Legal Proceedings Commitments and Contingencies, Policy [Policy Text Block] Guarantees and Indemnifications Guarantees, Indemnifications and Warranties Policies [Policy Text Block] Segment Information Segment Reporting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Lease Accounting Policy Lessee, Leases [Policy Text Block] Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract] Restructuring and Related Costs Restructuring and Related Costs [Table Text Block] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Nature of Expense [Axis] Nature of Expense [Axis] Interim Period, Costs Not Allocable [Domain] Interim Period, Costs Not Allocable [Domain] Direct Cost Direct Cost [Member] Direct Cost [Member] International International [Member] International [Member] Manufacturing, Research, Corporate Manufacturing, Research, Corporate [Member] Manufacturing, Research, Corporate [Member] Other current liabilities Other Current Liabilities [Member] Other Noncurrent Liabilities Other Noncurrent Liabilities [Member] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Business Acquisition, Transaction Costs Business Acquisition, Transaction Costs Integration costs Business Combination, Integration Related Costs Employee termination costs Exit costs Business Exit Costs Total Restructuring charges and certain acquisition-related costs Restructuring Charges And Acquisition Related Costs This element represents (i) restructuring charges, which are amounts charged against earnings in the period for incurred and estimated costs associated with exit from or disposal of business activities or restructurings pursuant to a program that is planned and controlled by management, and materially changes either the scope of a business undertaken by an entity, or the manner in which that business is conducted; and (ii) acquisition-related costs, which are costs incurred to effect a business combination which costs have been expensed during the period. Such costs can include transaction costs such as banking, legal, accounting and other costs directly related to effect a business combination as well as external, incremental costs of integration planning that are directly related to a business combination, including costs associated with preparing for systems and other integration activities. Restructuring charges (reversals) Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward] Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward] Restructuring accrual balance Restructuring Reserve Utilization and other Restructuring Reserve, Utilization And Other Adjustment to restructuring reserve resulting from utilization and foreign currency translation. Restructuring accrual balance Accrued expenses Restructuring Reserve, Current Other noncurrent liabilities Restructuring Reserve, Noncurrent Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Domain] Class of Stock [Domain] Share Repurchase Program Share Repurchase Program [Member] Share Repurchase Program Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Common Stock Common Stock [Member] Treasury Stock Treasury Stock [Member] Additional Paid-in Capital Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Retained Earnings Retained Earnings [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member] Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Common Stock, Shares, Issued Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Beginning balance Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income/(loss) Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Other comprehensive loss Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax The fair value of our noncontrolling interest in a VIE The fair value of our noncontrolling interest in a VIE The fair value of our noncontrolling interest in a VIE Stock-based compensation awards (in shares) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Treasury Stock Reissued Share-based compensation awards APIC, Share-based Payment Arrangement, Increase for Cost Recognition Treasury stock acquired, shares Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired Treasury stock acquired Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method Employee benefit plan contribution from Pfizer Inc. Contributed Capital, Associated with Pension, To Be Contributed by Related Party Contributed Capital, Associated with Pension, To Be Contributed by Related Party Dividends declared Dividends, Common Stock Ending balance Lease, Cost [Table Text Block] Lease, Cost [Table Text Block] Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Maturity [Table Text Block] Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Maturity [Table Text Block] Lessee, Operating Lease, Disclosure [Table Text Block] Lessee, Operating Lease, Disclosure [Table Text Block] Operating Segments U.S. United States Segment [Member] United States Segment [Member] Inventory Disclosure [Abstract] Finished goods Inventory, Finished Goods, Net of Reserves Work-in-process Inventory, Work in Process, Net of Reserves Raw materials and supplies Inventory, Raw Materials and Supplies, Net of Reserves Inventories Inventory, Net Other Income and Expenses [Abstract] Components of Other (Income)/Deductions—Net Schedule of Other Operating Cost and Expense, by Component [Table Text Block] Basis of Presentation Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block] Equity [Abstract] Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Share Repurchase Program [Axis] Share Repurchase Program [Axis] Share Repurchase Program [Domain] Share Repurchase Program [Domain] December 2016 Share Repurchase Program December 2016 Share Repurchase Program [Member] December 2016 Share Repurchase Program [Member] December 2018 Share Repurchase Program [Member] December 2018 Share Repurchase Program [Member] December 2018 Share Repurchase Program [Member] Stock Compensation Plan Share-based Payment Arrangement [Member] Class of Stock [Line Items] Class of Stock [Line Items] Stock repurchase program, authorized amount Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount Stock repurchase program, remaining authorized repurchase amount Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount Common stock issued, shares Treasury stock, shares Stock issued, employee stock purchase plans, shares Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Employee Stock Purchase Plans Stock issued, employee benefit plan, shares Stock Repurchased During Period, Shares Common stock issued, shares Treasury stock, shares Business Combinations [Abstract] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Scenario [Axis] Scenario [Axis] Scenario [Domain] Scenario [Domain] Pro Forma Pro Forma [Member] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Revenue Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Revenue Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net Income (Loss) Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net Income (Loss) Depreciation Depreciation Adjustment to inventory Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Inventory Share-based compensation expense Share-based Payment Arrangement, Noncash Expense Schedule of Indefinite-lived and Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Table] Schedule Of Indefinitelived And Finitelived Intangible Assets [Table] Schedule of Indefinite-lived and Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Table] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Developed Technology Rights Developed Technology Rights [Member] Brands Brands [Member] Brands [Member] Trademarks and Trade Names Trademarks and Trade Names [Member] Other Intangible Assets Other Intangible Assets [Member] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Axis] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Axis] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] In Process Research and Development In Process Research and Development [Member] Product Rights Product Rights [Member] Product Rights [Member] Finite Lived and Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite Lived And Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite Lived and Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Identifiable intangible assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Intangible Assets, Other than Goodwill Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life Finite-lived intangible assets, gross carrying amount Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Finite-lived intangible assets, accumulated amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Finite-lived intangible assets, identifiable intangible assets, less accumulated amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Total indefinite-lived intangible assets Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) Intangible Assets, gross carrying amount Intangible Assets, Gross (Excluding Goodwill) Identifiable intangible assets, less accumulated amortization Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) 3.450% 2015 senior notes due 2020 Senior Notes 3.450% Due 2020 [Member] Senior Notes Due 2020 [Member] 2018 floating senior notes due 2021 Senior Notes Floating Due 2021 [Member] Senior Notes Floating Due 2021 [Member] 3.250% 2018 senior notes due 2021 Senior Notes 3.250% Due 2021 [Member] Senior Notes 3.250% Due 2021 3.250% 2013 senior notes due 2023 Senior Notes Due 2023 [Member] Senior Notes Due 2023 [Member] 4.500% 2015 senior notes due 2025 Senior Notes 4.500% Due 2025 [Member] Senior Notes Due 2025 [Member] 3.000% 2017 senior notes due 2027 Senior Notes 3.000% Due 2027 [Member] Senior Notes 3.000% Due 2027 3.900% 2018 senior notes due 2028 Senior Notes 3.900% Due 2028 [Member] Senior Notes 3.900% Due 2028 [Member] 4.700% 2013 senior notes due 2043 Senior Notes Due 2043 [Member] Senior Notes Due 2043 [Member] 3.950% 2017 senior notes due 2047 Senior Notes 3.950% Due 2047 [Member] Senior Notes 3.950% Due 2047 [Member] 4.450% 2018 senior notes due 2048 Senior Notes 4.450% Due 2048 [Member] Senior Notes 4.450% Due 2048 [Member] Interest rate percentage Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Unamortized debt discount / debt issuance costs Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount (Premium), Net Long-term debt, net of discount and issuance costs Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities Debt, principal amount Debt, unamortized discount Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount Make whole premium and accrued interest Make whole premium and accrued interest Make whole premium and accrued interest Debt, purchase price percent due to downgrade of investment grade Debt Instrument, Purchase Price Percent Due to Downgrade of Investment Grade Debt Instrument, Purchase Price Percent Due to Downgrade of Investment Grade Adjustment Type [Axis] Adjustment Type [Axis] Adjustment Type [Axis] Adjustment Type [Domain] Adjustment Type [Domain] [Domain] for Adjustment Type [Axis] Measurement period adjustment [Member] Measurement period adjustment [Member] Measurement period adjustment [Member] Ownership [Axis] Ownership [Axis] Ownership [Domain] Ownership [Domain] Cash and cash equivalents Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Cash and Equivalents Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Marketable Securities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Marketable Securities Accounts receivable Business Combination, Acquired Receivable, Fair Value Inventories Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Inventory Other current assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Prepaid Expense and Other Assets Property, plant and equipment Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Property, Plant, and Equipment Other noncurrent assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Other Noncurrent Assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Accounts Payable Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Accounts Payable Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Accrued Compensation and Related Items Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Accrued Compensation and Related Items Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Accrued Compensation and Related Items Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Other Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Other Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Deferred Tax Liabilities Noncurrent Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Deferred Tax Liabilities Noncurrent Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net Goodwill, Acquired During Period Goodwill, Acquired During Period Business Combination, Consideration Transferred Business Combination, Consideration Transferred Inventories Inventory Disclosure [Text Block] Financial Instruments Financial Instruments Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Selected Income Statement Information by Segment Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments Maturity period (in days) Derivative, Term of Contract Organization Nature of Operations [Text Block] UNITED STATES UNITED STATES Australia AUSTRALIA Brazil BRAZIL Canada CANADA France FRANCE Germany GERMANY Italy ITALY Japan JAPAN Mexico MEXICO Spain SPAIN United Kingdom UNITED KINGDOM Other developed markets Other Developed Markets [Member] Other Developed Markets [Member] Other emerging markets Other Emerging Markets [Member] Other Emerging Markets [Member] Total geographical area Total Geographical Area [Member] Total by Geographical Area [Member] Contract Manufacturing and Human Health Diagnostics [Member] Contract Manufacturing and Human Health Diagnostics [Member] Contract Manufacturing and Human Health Diagnostics [Member] Acquisitions and Divestitures Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block] Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Numerator Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract] Net income before allocation to noncontrolling interests Less: Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income attributable to Zoetis Inc. Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Denominator Earnings Per Share, Diluted [Abstract] Weighted-average common shares outstanding Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Common stock equivalents: stock options, RSUs, PSUs and DSUs Weighted Average Number Diluted Shares Outstanding Adjustment Weighted-average common and potential dilutive shares outstanding Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Earnings per share attributable to Zoetis stockholders—basic (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Basic Earnings per share attributable to Zoetis stockholders—diluted (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Diluted Antidilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share, amount Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Segment Information Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Gain (Loss) on Components Excluded from Assessment of Interest Rate Fair Value Hedge Effectiveness Gain (Loss) on Components Excluded from Assessment of Interest Rate Fair Value Hedge Effectiveness Period [Axis] Period [Axis] Period [Axis] Period [Domain] Period [Domain] Period [Domain] BusinessCombinationPreMergerService [Member] BusinessCombinationPreMergerService [Member] BusinessCombinationPreMergerService [Member] Business Acquisition, Name of Acquired Entity Business Acquisition, Name of Acquired Entity Share price (in dollars per share) Business Acquisition, Share Price Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross Acquisition-related costs Business Combination, Acquisition Related Costs Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Components of Inventory Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block] Lessee, Lease, Description [Table] Lessee, Lease, Description [Table] Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items] Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items] Operating lease expense Operating Lease, Expense Variable lease payments not included in the measurement of lease liabilities Variable Lease, Payment Short-term lease payments not included in the measurement of lease liabilities Short-term Lease Payments Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities Operating Lease, Payments Lease obligations obtained in exchange for right-of-use assets (non-cash) Right-of-Use Asset Obtained in Exchange for Operating Lease Liability Operating lease right of use assets Operating Lease, Right-of-Use Asset Operating lease liabilities - current (in Other current liabilities) Operating Lease, Liability, Current Operating lease liabilities - noncurrent Operating Lease, Liability, Noncurrent Total operating lease liabilities Operating Lease, Liability Weighted-average remaining lease term—operating leases (years) Operating Lease, Weighted Average Remaining Lease Term Weighted-average discount rate—operating leases Operating Lease, Weighted Average Discount Rate, Percent 2019 Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Next Twelve Months 2020 Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Two 2021 Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Three 2022 Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Four 2023 Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Five After 2023 Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due after Year Five Total Lease Payments Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Less: Imputed Interest Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Undiscounted Excess Amount 2019 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months 2020 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years 2021 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years 2022 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years 2023 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years After 2023 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter Total Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Total rent expense Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Net Revenue Deferred Revenue Disclosure [Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Vaccines Vaccines [Member] Vaccines [Member] Other pharmaceuticals Other Pharmaceuticals [Member] Other Pharmaceuticals [Member] Anti-infectives Anti-infective Products [Member] Anti-infective Products [Member] Parasiticides Parasiticides [Member] Parasiticides [Member] Medicated feed additives Medicated Feed Additives [Member] Medicated Feed Additives [Member] Animal health diagnostics Animal Health Diagnostics [Member] Animal Health Diagnostics [Member] Other non-pharmaceuticals Other Non Pharmaceuticals [Member] Other Non Pharmaceuticals [Member] Total products and services Total Products and Services [Member] Total Products and Services [Member] Stockholders' Equity Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Operating Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Adjustments to reconcile net income before noncontrolling interests to net cash provided by operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Depreciation and amortization expense Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Asset write-offs and asset impairments Asset Impairment Charges Net gain on sale of assets Gain (Loss) on Sale of Assets and Asset Impairment Charges Provision for losses on inventory Inventory Write-down Deferred taxes Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Employee benefit plan contribution from Pfizer Inc. Non Cash Transfers to Related Party Non Cash Transfers to Related Party Other non-cash adjustments Other Noncash Income (Expense) Other changes in assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions and divestitures: Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Accounts receivable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable Inventories Increase (Decrease) in Inventories Other assets Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets Accounts payable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable Other liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Liabilities Other tax accounts, net Increase (Decrease) in Accrued Taxes Payable Net cash provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Investing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Purchases of property, plant and equipment Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Acquisition of Abaxis, net of cash acquired Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Other acquisitions Payments to Acquire Business Two, Net of Cash Acquired Proceeds from maturities and redemptions of investments Proceeds from Sale, Maturity and Collection of Investments Net proceeds on swaps designated as net investment hedges Proceeds from Hedge, Investing Activities Net proceeds from sale of assets Proceeds from Sale of Property, Plant, and Equipment Other investing activities Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Net cash used in investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Financing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Decrease in short-term borrowings, net Proceeds from (Repayments of) Short-term Debt Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt—senior notes, net of discount and fees Proceeds from Issuance of Debt Payment of contingent consideration related to previously acquired assets Payments for Previous Acquisition Acquisition of a noncontrolling interest Payments to Acquire Interest in Subsidiaries and Affiliates Share-based compensation-related proceeds, net of taxes paid on withholding shares Proceeds and Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation Purchases of treasury stock Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Cash dividends paid Payments of Ordinary Dividends Net cash (used in)/provided by financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Effect of exchange-rate changes on cash and cash equivalents Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Cash and cash equivalents at end of period Supplemental cash flow information Additional Cash Flow Elements and Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Cash paid during the period for: Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Income taxes Income Taxes Paid, Net Interest, net of capitalized interest Interest Paid, Excluding Capitalized Interest, Operating Activities Non-cash transactions: Other Noncash Investing and Financing Items [Abstract] Capital expenditures Capital Expenditures Incurred but Not yet Paid Changes in the Carrying Amount of Goodwill Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block] Components of Identifiable Intangible Assets Schedule of Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table Text Block] Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross CashPaidForEqutyAwardsVestedAtAcquisition CashPaidForEqutyAwardsVestedAtAcquisition Cash paid for cancellation and settlement of equity awards that fully vested as a result of service or pre-existing change-in-control or termination provisions Equity Issued in Business Combination, Fair Value Disclosure Equity Issued in Business Combination, Fair Value Disclosure Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Stock options / stock appreciation rights RSUs / DSUs(a)(b) PSUs Share-based compensation expense—direct Share-based Payment Arrangement, Expense Share-based Payment Arrangement, Accelerated Cost Share-based Payment Arrangement, Accelerated Cost Available-for-sale Securities Available-for-sale Securities [Table Text Block] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block] Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value [Table Text Block] Schedule of Other Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Statements of Financial Performance and Financial Position, Location Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Net Investment Hedges in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Schedule of Net Investment Hedges in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Schedule of Net Investment Hedges, Statements of Financial Performance and Financial Position, Location Schedule of Net Investment Hedges, Statements of Financial Performance and Financial Position, Location [Table Text Block] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosures [Table] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosures [Table] Foreign currency forward-exchange contracts Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosures [Line Items] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosures [Line Items] Foreign currency forward-exchange contracts Gain (Loss) on Foreign Currency Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Axis] Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Domain] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Fair value, debt instrument Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table Text Block] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table Text Block] Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block] Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block] Earnings per Share Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Share-Based Payments Share-based Payment Arrangement [Text Block] Discrete Tax Benefit [Axis] Discrete Tax Benefit [Axis] Discrete Tax Benefit [Axis] Discrete Tax Benefit [Domain] Discrete Tax Benefit [Domain] [Domain] for Discrete Tax Benefit [Axis] Share-based Payments Share-based Payments [Member] Share-based Payments [Member] Change in Non-U.S. Statutory Tax Rates Non-U.S. Statutory Tax Rates [Member] Non-U.S. Statutory Tax Rates [Member] Effective tax rate for income from continuing operations Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations, Adjustment of Deferred Tax (Asset) Liability Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations, Adjustment of Deferred Tax (Asset) Liability Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Other current assets Other Current Assets [Member] Other noncurrent assets Other Noncurrent Assets [Member] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Derivative assets Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Derivative liabilities Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Total derivatives Derivative, Fair Value, Net Components of Share-based Compensation Expense Share-based Payment Arrangement, Cost by Plan [Table Text Block] Income Statement [Abstract] Costs and expenses: Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Cost of sales Cost of Goods and Services Sold Selling, general and administrative expenses Selling, General and Administrative Expense Research and development expenses Research and Development Expense (Excluding Acquired in Process Cost) Amortization of intangible assets Amortization Of Intangible Assets Not Associated With Single Function The amount of amortization that is not associated with a single function. Amounts associated in a single function are included in Cost of sales, Selling, information and administrative expenses and Research and development expenses. Restructuring charges and certain acquisition-related costs Other (income)/deductions—net Nonoperating Income (Expense) Income before provision for taxes on income Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest Provision for taxes on income Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Net income before allocation to noncontrolling interests Less: Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests Earnings per share attributable to Zoetis Inc. stockholders: Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Abstract] Basic (in dollars per share) Diluted (in dollars per share) Weighted-average common shares outstanding: Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding Reconciliation [Abstract] Basic (in shares) Diluted (in shares) Dividends paid per common share (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared Income Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Other (Income)/Deductions - Net Other Income and Other Expense Disclosure [Text Block] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] Royalty-related income Royalty Income, Nonoperating Interest income Interest Income (Expense), Nonoperating, Net Net (gain)/loss on sale of assets Foreign currency loss Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), before Tax Other, net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Other (income)/deductions—net Restructuring Charges and Other Costs Associated with Acquisitions and Cost-Reduction/Productivity Initiatives Cost Reduction And Productivity Initiatives And Acquisition Related Costs Disclosure [Text Block] Description of cost-reduction and productivity initiatives associated with a comprehensive plan to integrate acquired operations, generate cost savings and capture synergies across the company; as well as costs incurred in connection with an acquisition. These costs include (i) restructuring activities, including exit and disposal activities, the major types of costs associated with the plan activities and the accrual balance at the end of the period; (ii) integration costs, which represent external, incremental costs directly related to integrating acquired businesses; (iii) implementation costs, which represent external, incremental costs directly related to implementing cost-reduction initiatives prior to acquisition and primarily include expenditures related to system and process standardization and the expansion of shared services; (iv) additional depreciation-asset restructuring, which represents the impact of changes in the estimated useful lives of assets involved in restructuring actions; and (v) transaction costs, representing external costs incurred in connection with an acquisition. Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies [Table] Litigation Case [Axis] Litigation Case [Axis] Litigation Case [Domain] Litigation Case [Domain] Ulianopolis, Brazil Ulianopolis, Brazil [Member] Ulianopolis, Brazil [Member] Lasadoil Lascadoil [Member] Lascadoil [Member] European Commission European Commission [Member] European Commission [Member] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Number of additional defendants Loss Contingency, Additional Number of Defendants Loss Contingency, Additional Number of Defendants Number of claims seeking damages Loss Contingency, Pending Claims, Number Duration of suspension of lawsuit Lawsuit Temporarily Suspended The number of years lawsuit was temporarily suspended. Number of deaths from contamination of animal feed Number of Deaths, Contamination of Animal Feed Number of Deaths, Contamination of Animal Feed Number of contaminated animal from contamination of animal feed Number of Contaminated, Contamination of Animal Feed Number of Contaminated, Contamination of Animal Feed Number of complaints Loss Contingency, New Claims Filed, Number Amount reimbursed by Pfizer Loss Contingency Accrual Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Derivatives Net Unrealized Gains/ (Losses) Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges Attributable to Parent [Member] Net Investment Hedges AOCI, Accumulated Gain (Loss), Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Parent [Member] Currency Translation Adjustment Net Unrealized Gain/(Losses) Accumulated Foreign Currency Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member] Benefit Plans Actuarial Gains/(Losses) Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Roll Forward] AOCI Attributable to Parent, Net of Tax [Roll Forward] Other comprehensive (loss)/income, net of tax Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Restatement [Axis] Restatement [Axis] Restatement [Domain] Restatement [Domain] Other comprehensive income, net of taxes and reclassification adjustments: Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Unrealized losses on derivatives for cash flow hedges, net Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax Unrealized gains on derivatives for net investment hedges, net Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cash Flow Hedge, Gain (Loss), Reclassification, after Tax Foreign currency translation adjustments, net Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Total other comprehensive loss, net of tax Comprehensive income before allocation to noncontrolling interest Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Less: Comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interest Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive income attributable to Zoetis Inc. Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Corporate Corporate, Non-Segment [Member] Other business activities Other Segments [Member] Acquisition-related Costs [Member] Acquisition-related Costs [Member] Cost of Sales Gross Profit Gross Profit Gross margin, percentage Gross Margin Gross Margin Operating Expenses Operating Expenses Depreciation and amortization Purchase accounting adjustments, Earnings Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Consideration Transferred Purchase accounting adjustments, Depreciation and Amortization Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Intangibles Certain significant items, Earnings Certain Significant Reconciling Items Included in Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest Certain Significant Reconciling Items Included in Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest Certain significant items, Depreciation and Amortization Certain Significant Reconciling Items Included in Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Certain Significant Reconciling Items Included in Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Other unallocated, Earnings Other Unallocated Items Included in Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest Other Unallocated Items Included in Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest Other Unallocated, Depreciation and Amortization Other Unallocated Items Included in Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Other Unallocated Items Included in Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Changes, Net of Tax, in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Geographical [Domain] United States (U.S.) Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill [Roll Forward] Goodwill [Roll Forward] Beginning Balance Goodwill Other Goodwill, Other Increase (Decrease) Ending Balance Schedule of Short-term Debt [Table] Schedule of Short-term Debt [Table] Short-term Debt, Type [Axis] Short-term Debt, Type [Axis] Short-term Debt, Type [Domain] Short-term Debt, Type [Domain] Commercial Paper Commercial Paper [Member] Short-term Debt [Line Items] Short-term Debt [Line Items] Short-term Debt, Fair Value Short-term Debt, Fair Value Capacity of commercial paper program Short-term Debt, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Short-term Debt, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Assets Assets [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Restricted cash Restricted Cash, Current Short term investments Short-term Investments Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts of $25 in 2019 and $24 in 2018 Accounts Receivable, after Allowance for Credit Loss, Current Inventories Other current assets Other Assets, Current Total current assets Assets, Current Property, plant and equipment, less accumulated depreciation of $1,725 in 2019 and $1,599 in 2018 Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Goodwill Identifiable intangible assets, less accumulated amortization Other noncurrent assets Other Assets, Noncurrent Total assets Assets Liabilities and Equity Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Short-term borrowings Short-term Debt Accounts payable Accounts Payable, Current Dividends payable Dividends Payable, Current Accrued expenses Other Accrued Liabilities, Noncurrent Accrued compensation and related items Employee-related Liabilities, Current Income taxes payable Taxes Payable, Current Other current liabilities Other Liabilities, Current Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Noncurrent deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Noncurrent Operating lease liabilities Other taxes payable Accrued Income Taxes, Noncurrent Other noncurrent liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Total liabilities Liabilities Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Stockholders' equity: Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Preferred stock, $0.01 par value: 1,000,000,000 authorized, none issued Preferred Stock, Value, Outstanding Common stock, $0.01 par value: 6,000,000,000 authorized; 501,891,243 and 501,891,243 shares issued; 476,745,789 and 479,562,326 shares outstanding at September 30, 2019, and December 31, 2018, respectively Common Stock, Value, Issued Treasury stock, at cost, 25,145,454 and 22,328,917 shares of common stock at September 30, 2019, and December 31, 2018, respectively Treasury Stock, Value Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital Retained earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Accumulated other comprehensive loss Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Total equity Total liabilities and equity Liabilities and Equity