* Biology: This is arguably the *most* important. A deep understanding of cell biology, genetics, anatomy, physiology, microbiology, immunology, and zoology is crucial.
* Chemistry: Organic chemistry is paramount, followed by general, inorganic, and biochemistry. Veterinary medicine heavily involves understanding chemical processes within the body and how drugs interact.
* Physics: While less central than biology and chemistry, physics is important for understanding concepts related to imaging (like X-rays and ultrasound) and mechanics of the body.
* Mathematics: Statistics and calculus are important for data analysis, research, and understanding complex biological processes.
* Zoology: Understanding animal behavior, evolution, and diverse animal species is vital for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Beyond these core subjects, strong performance in English/writing is also essential for effective communication with clients, colleagues, and for writing research papers. Some veterinary schools also emphasize the importance of ethics courses, as ethical considerations are inherent to the profession.
It's important to note that veterinary school is incredibly competitive. Success requires a broad and deep understanding of all these subjects, not just a passing grade.