This study explores the status and lessons learned from veterinary medicine and its One health perspective in academia, comparing the systems of China with the rest of the world. For this purpose, multiple databases, including PubMed, CNKI, Web of Science, etc., were used to analyze various aspects of veterinary education in China. The paper is structured into sections including veterinary medicine in academic institutions, the development of veterinary culture, the status of veterinary education in China, issues and challenges, international comparisons, and optimization suggestions. In this study, a simple approach to the historical evolution of veterinary education in different developmental stages is revealed through a retrospective analysis. The section on the status of veterinary education in China focuses on critical areas such as talent cultivation, practical teaching and internships, educational evaluation systems, professional education, and innovation and entrepreneurship. Through the analysis of challenges and issues in Chinese veterinary education, the paper reveals inadequacies in curriculum systems and imbalances in internship and practical opportunities. Comparing with Europe, America, and developing countries, this paper offers insights and inspirations to guide the ‘future development of veterinary education in China. Finally, the paper proposes optimization suggestions, including improvements to the curriculum system, strengthening practical teaching, and promoting international cooperation and exchange. These measures aim to propel Chinese veterinary education towards a healthier, more diverse, and internationalized direction, enhancing the overall quality of veterinary professionals to meet better veterinary workers, nonhuman animals, and one health in societal development.