The Five-Element Theory is one of the two fundamental theories of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM). The other is Yin/Yang theory, which we will certainly talk about later! The Five Element Theory explains the relationships between elements in the environment.
There are 5 Chinese elements – Fire, Earth, Metal, Water and Wood. Each element is associated with certain emotions, personality traits and characteristics that are readily identifiable in each and every pet, or for that matter, person.
Each element is also associated with organs of the body.
- Fire – heart
- Earth – spleen/stomach
- Metal – lung
- Water – kidney
- Wood – liver
Fire
- Fire type animals are usually animals that are happy all the time. They are playful, they want and seek attention, and they seem to be somewhat hyper. They are just happy-go-lucky.
- Fire-type pets usually deal with diseases of cardiovascular origin. They seem to get restless easy, they may deal with separation anxiety, or any diseases really related to the heart.
- Key phrase – “It’s all about me!!!”
Earth
- An earth pet is a pet that’s easy going and it’s an easy keeper. They tend to be sociable and are very food oriented. They are easy to train with food.
- They are loyal friends, they’re easy going, they’re quiet, and they’re supportive. They are just good pets.
- Earth pets tend to suffer from gastrointestinal problems and obesity.
- Key phrase – “Let’s all get along…”
Metal
- Metal animals are confident, they tend to obey. They seem very structured and disciplined in what they do. They’re independent, they follow the rules, typically they’re very well manicured and maintained. They have good vision and are smart.
- Metal pets tend to suffer from are typically diseases related to the lung – diseases such as asthma, sinus problems, maybe nasal congestion, cough, frequent colds.
- Key phrase – “We have to follow the rules.”
Water
- Water animals are timid or fearful. They are cautious and quiet. They are the kind of pets that will hide under the chair or the exam table in the veterinarian’s office. They just seem a little bit scared all the time.
- Water pets may have kidney issues, chronic urinary tract infections. They also frequently suffer with deafness and arthritis as they age (the water element is also associated with both hearing and bones).
- Key phrase – “I’m scared!”
Wood
- Wood animals are very confident, they are very assertive, decisive, strong. The can be very impatient. They are also very athletic. They tend to have big eyes and a thin, strong wiry frame.
- Wood pets can have liver problems and also suffer with ear and allergy issues.
- Key phrase – “I’m in charge!”
Here is a fun online quiz to help you figure out what element best describes your pet:
Five Elements Veterinary Acupunture 