What TCVM pattern is indicated by an easily frightened animal with tendon/ligament weakness?

The pattern indicated by an easily frightened animal with tendon or ligament weakness aligns with a Blood deficiency in Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM). In TCVM, Blood is considered vital for nourishing the body, including the tendons and ligaments. When an animal experiences Blood deficiency, it may lead to a lack of nourishment for these structures, resulting in weakness and instability.

Furthermore, Blood also plays a crucial role in calming the spirit; thus, an easily frightened behavior can be attributed to insufficient Blood support for the mental and emotional well-being of the animal. A well-nourished animal tends to exhibit a grounded demeanor, while a deficiency can lead to heightened anxiety and fearfulness.

In contrast, Qi deficiency might also cause weakness but is more associated with fatigue and lower energy levels rather than specifically the emotional response of being easily frightened. Yin deficiency is typically characterized by heat signs, restlessness, and more dynamic conditions rather than simply weakness and fear. Yang deficiency usually presents with cold signs, poor circulation, and lethargy, which does not correlate strongly with the presented behavior of frightfulness.

Thus, Blood deficiency most accurately encapsulates the symptoms of an easily frightened animal exhibiting tendon and ligament weakness.