Inheritance and Innovation: The Historical Evolution and Contemporary Transformation of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine

Traditional Chinese veterinary medicine (TCVM) has a long developmental history, with its origins traceable to antiquity. It took initial form during the early hierarchal society (1046 BCE) and gradually matured into a systematic discipline through the feudal period, establishing a comprehensive theoretical framework based on Yin-Yang and Five Elements theory, the theory of Zang-fu organs, and treatment guided by syndrome differentiation. Its progression stagnated in the late Qing Dynasty to wartime periods, experiencing revival only after the establishment of the People’s Republic of China, when policy prioritized cultural and educational advancement. In the contemporary era, TCVM has undergone significant transformation through integration with modern veterinary medicine. Its clinical focus, once centered almost exclusively on traditional livestock, has expanded to incorporate the companion animal sector, where it demonstrates efficacy in managing chronic, age-related conditions, as well as disorders affecting exotic pets. Within livestock production, TCVM has evolved from individualized to population-level syndrome differentiation, with its preventive treatment philosophy supporting sustainable farming practices and antibiotic reduction policies. The discipline actively incorporates modern scientific methodologies, including molecular biology, network pharmacology, artificial intelligence, and advanced diagnostics to enhance its theoretical foundation and clinical applicability. Despite persistent challenges, TCVM continues to expand its global presence through international education and professional training. Future development should adhere to the principle of “conserving the essence while fostering innovation,” promoting integrative veterinary medicine, strengthening industry-academia-research collaboration, and cultivating a multi-tiered professional workforce. In doing so, these efforts will further enable TCVM to contribute to animal health, sustainable agriculture, and the global “One Health” initiative.