Clinical Use of Homeopathy in Veterinary Medicine: A Systematic Review

Homeopathy is used by some veterinary practitioners as a complementary approach for treatment and prophylaxis in a range of animal species. The clinical evidence base is contested and heterogeneous. This systematic review synthesizes randomized and non-randomized clinical trials, systematic reviews and key policy statements assessing the clinical use, efficacy, safety, welfare implications, and regulatory context of veterinary homeopathy. Methods: A systematic search and synthesis were performed across published systematic reviews, randomized controlled trials (RCTs), controlled clinical trials (CCTs), and institutional position statements concerning homeopathy in animals. Data were extracted on species, indication, study design, risk of bias, outcomes, and main conclusions. Evidence quality and clinical implications were evaluated. High-quality systematic reviews found a limited number of RCTs with heterogeneous quality and endpoints; meta-analysis suggests only very limited evidence of effects beyond placebo in animals, with small, low-quality trials responsible for most positive findings. A small number of trials reported outcomes favoring homeopathy for specific indications like prophylaxis of post-weaning diarrhea in pigs and some mastitis studies, but methodological limitations and risk of bias substantially limit confidence. Broad reviews of complementary and alternative veterinary medicine and evidence syntheses similarly conclude that clear, reproducible evidence for routine clinical effectiveness is lacking. Institutional position statements (RCVS, BVA, AVMA) emphasize evidence-based use and caution where animal welfare could be compromised. Current clinical evidence does not provide robust support for routine substitution of conventional proven therapies with homeopathy in veterinary medicine. Homeopathy may be considered as a complementary option where used alongside conventional treatment, provided informed consent, rigorous monitoring, and safeguards for animal welfare. High-quality, adequately powered randomized trials with transparent reporting are needed for firmer conclusions.