Wellness Guide - Article 3

Can Pets See a TCM Vet?

Discover how Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine Helps Pets with Various Health Issues

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Did you know that pets, just like humans, can see a TCM vet, take Chinese medicine, and receive pulse diagnosis and acupuncture?

Although Western medicine has traditionally dominated veterinary care, more pet owners are now turning to Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM). TCVM is a medical system that applies TCM principles and therapies to diagnose, treat, and maintain the health of pets. Similar to human TCM, it uses the theories and experience of Chinese medicine while considering the pet’s individual constitution, symptoms, and environmental factors to provide tailored treatment.

How Does a Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM) Vet Diagnose Pets?

TCVM uses the same diagnostic methods as human TCM, following the “Four Examinations” — Observation, Listening & Smelling, Inquiry, and Palpation. The main difference is that pulse locations vary depending on the animal.

Observation (望診): Assessing the pet’s spirit, body shape, facial color, facial features, skin, tongue coating, and excretions.

Listening & Smelling (聞診): Paying attention to breathing sounds and detecting odors from the pet’s breath or body.

Inquiry (問診): Asking the owner about the pet’s symptoms, disease onset and progression, previous treatments, and past illnesses.

Palpation (切診): Checking the pulse and feeling relevant body areas by hand.

Treatment Methods in Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM)

The goal of TCVM for pets is to maintain overall health, using gentle methods to regulate the body’s natural functions. It can also prevent and treat illnesses while improving pets’ quality of life. Here’s a look at some common TCVM therapies:

Food Therapy: Adjusting the pet’s diet and ingredients based on their constitution and health condition to achieve balance and therapeutic effects.

Tui Na / Massage: Applying specific massage techniques to targeted areas to promote circulation, relieve tension, and relax the body.

Acupuncture: Using fine needles to stimulate specific acupoints, regulating Qi and blood flow to enhance the body’s self-healing and balance.

Herbal Medicine / Chinese Herbs: Using herbal formulations to strengthen the pet’s constitution, improve symptoms, and support recovery.

From a TCM perspective, many health issues can be prevented early on. One of the easiest ways for pet owners to start is through dietary management. By cultivating good eating habits in daily life, you can lay a strong foundation for your pet’s health, improving their quality of life far more effectively than repeatedly seeking treatment after illness occurs.

Which Pets Are Suitable for Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine?

If your pet meets any of the following conditions, in addition to Western medicine, you might consider trying Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM):

Pets that have been on long-term Western treatments without improvement

Older pets unsuitable for invasive treatments

Pets that are generally healthy but prone to minor recurring issues

Most diseases can be addressed by a TCVM veterinarian. In Taiwan, TCVM vets undergo the same professional veterinary training as regular vets, with additional study in Chinese medicine theory and practical skills such as herbal medicine, acupuncture, and Tui Na massage.

For pets with muscle, skeletal, or neurological issues, such as joint problems, mobility difficulties, or paralysis, acupuncture can be highly effective. Pets with immune system disorders or chronic conditions, like atopic dermatitis or excessive licking, can also benefit greatly from TCVM treatments.

Every medical approach has its strengths and limitations. Western medicine is ideal for rapid intervention in emergencies, while TCVM focuses on prevention, wellness, and restorative care. Combining both approaches can help your pet maintain long-term health and vitality.