veterinary

This term is used exclusively in professional, medical, or academic contexts to describe the science and practice of animal medicine. It carries a formal register and is typically used as a modifier for nouns such as clinic, surgeon, or medicine.

In casual conversation, the noun form "veterinarian" or the shortened "vet" is far more common when referring to the practitioner. Using "veterinary" as a noun to describe the profession itself is rare and usually restricted to formal institutional titles.