What Is the Difference Between the Vietnamese Zodiac and the Chinese Zodiac?

If you’ve ever celebrated Lunar New Year (TET) in Vietnam, you may notice something interesting. The Vietnamese zodiac is very similar to the Chinese zodiac, but there is one key difference that surprises many travellers.

In this blog, you’ll learn what makes the Vietnamese zodiac unique, and why Vietnam has a Cat instead of a Rabbit in the Vietnamese Zodiac vs the Chinese Zodiac system.

What is the main difference between the Vietnamese and Chinese zodiac?

The main difference is the 4th animal in the 12-year cycle.

• In the Chinese zodiac, the 4th animal is the Rabbit.
• In the Vietnamese zodiac, the 4th animal is the Cat.

All other zodiac animals are the same in both systems.

What Is the Zodiac?

The zodiac is a 12-year cycle, and each year is represented by an animal sign. People often use it to talk about personality traits, luck, and compatibility, especially during Lunar New Year celebrations.

Why Does Vietnam Have a Cat Instead of a Rabbit?

There are two common explanations.

1. Language influence

The Chinese zodiac sign “Mǎo” (卯), associated with the Rabbit, sounds similar to the Vietnamese word “mèo” (cat). Over time, this may have influenced Vietnam to adopt the Cat instead.

2. Cultural reasons

Cats are more common in Vietnamese daily life than rabbits.
They are valued for:

• Protecting rice fields by catching rats
• Staying close to home
• Symbolizing alertness and independence

Because of this cultural familiarity, the Cat became part of the Vietnamese zodiac.

How Vietnamese People Use Zodiac Signs in Daily Life

In Vietnam, zodiac signs play an important role in daily life.

People often:

• Ask about zodiac signs during Tet
• Consider zodiac compatibility before marriage
• Check zodiac signs for business partnerships
• Plan important events based on zodiac years

During Tet, zodiac animals appear on decorations, lucky envelopes (lì xì), and temple offerings.

What Travellers Can See During TET in Vietnam

If you visit Vietnam during Lunar New Year, zodiac culture is everywhere.

You can see zodiac decorations at flower markets, shopping streets, and in local homes. Red lucky envelopes called “lì xì” often feature the animal of the year.

Many locals also visit temples and pagodas at the start of the year to pray for peace, health, and good luck, making the holiday season feel even more meaningful and special.

Conclusion

The Vietnamese zodiac is a beautiful part of Vietnam’s Lunar New Year culture. Even though it is very similar to the Chinese zodiac, the Cat makes Vietnam’s version special and unforgettable.

If you travel to Vietnam during TET, understanding the Vietnamese Zodiac vs Chinese Zodiac difference will help you connect more deeply with local traditions and enjoy the cultural experience even more.

FAQ About the Vietnamese Zodiac

1. Is the Vietnamese zodiac the same as the Chinese zodiac?

Almost. The only difference is that Vietnam uses the Cat instead of the Rabbit.

2. How many animals are in the Vietnamese zodiac?

There are 12 animals, forming a 12-year cycle.

3. Why is the Cat important in Vietnam?

Cats are culturally significant in farming communities and symbolize protection and independence.

4. Does zodiac compatibility matter in Vietnam?

Yes. Many people consider zodiac compatibility when making major life decisions.

Related Articles: 

Vietnam Temple Etiquette: A Guide to Respectful and Comfortable Travel

Vietnamese Tet 2026: Things to Know Before Your Trip

The events observed by the Vietnamese during Tet

Reference: 

CBC. (2023, January 25). [Photograph]. CBC News. https://i.cbc.ca/ais/1.6724912,1674601704000/full/max/0/default.jpg