Because of the fact that the use of computers depends both on the user and on the apparatus, some characteristics of veterinarians and computers are discussed. Although veterinarians probably are not pre-eminently computer-minded in view of their choice of profession and training, they will be increasingly confronted with disciplines tending to employ data-processing systems as an item of training and field of interest. The extent to which computers can be used, will depend on their accessibility, reliability in operation, accuracy, flexibility and cost price. A discussion of these features shows that the fear of computers usually is greater than that warranted by the technology currently available. Their use commences at the point at which large numbers of data have to be processed and automation offers advantages from the point of view of economy or organization (systems of administration and payment). Moreover, data which has already been available for a certain period, is rendered accessible for the first time by automatic processing (meat inspection). Finally, a demand will be created by the supply of data. A number of uses in the various veterinary disciplines are discussed. Part of a computer teaching programme of a faculty of veterinary medicine is described as a practical instance.