Oakland Veterinary Referral Services Blog

The idea of AI and pets is a strange combination. But each day, artificial intelligence (AI) seems to advance in ways that once felt like science fiction. From streamlining human tasks to powering robotics, AI is shaping how we live—and soon, how we care for our pets. The question is no longer if AI will affect veterinary medicine and pet ownership, but how far it will go. Let’s explore the role AI may play in the future of pet care.

What will dogs and cats likely eat in 25 years? Pet owners today are already seeing a shift in what goes into their pets’ bowls, and by 2050, diets could look very different from the kibble-and-cans we know today. So what does the future of pet food look like? 

In short, yes. Cats might start to display certain behaviors when introduced to other cats that we humans can interpret as jealousy. These can include:

• Hissing
• Growling
• Swatting
• Exuding dominance over humans 
• Chewing or shredding items in the home
• Spraying around the house 

While these behaviors can be annoying for people and other pets in the home, they occur when your cat is trying to show that he or she is feeling anxious. When a new cat is introduced to a space that your cat already dominates, it can cause feelings of fear and uncertainty. When they exhibit the above behaviors, it is a way for them to try to re-establish control over their environment. 

The history of pets is a fascinating journey, showing how animals shifted from working roles in the barnyard to cherished family members in our bedrooms. Our ancestors might have interacted closely with animals, but they probably didn’t share a living space with them. And they definitely didn’t snuggle up next to each other for a good night’s sleep. So, when did animals go from the wild to the barnyard to the bedroom? Oakland Veterinary Referral Services brings you a brief history of pets becoming family members:

Each year, millions of pets suffer or die from animal cruelty, neglect, or abuse in the United States. Those who survive are often left with both visible scars and deep emotional wounds.

Removing a pet from an abusive environment is only the first step. The invisible trauma—fear, anxiety, and mistrust—can linger long after the rescue. True healing requires patience, compassion, and professional support. At Oakland Veterinary Referral Services (OVRS), our Behavioral Medicine team provides effective, compassionate care to help abused pets rebuild their sense of safety and trust.

Pets come into our lives in ways both ordinary and extraordinary—through adoption, rescue, as gifts, or chance encounters. However they arrive, they change us. They remind us to play, to rest, to forgive easily, and to love without conditions. As a specialty veterinary hospital, we at OVRS witness these powerful human-animal bonds every day. And we’re continually inspired by the life lessons our furry companions offer. Here are a few of the lessons my pet taught me:

A cancer diagnosis is tough for any pet parent. New advances in targeted therapies and radiation oncology for pets mean there is more hope for a positive outcome. Here is a list of some of the latest and greatest advances in the fight against cancer in pets:

Cats are complex, fascinating creatures with personalities as unique as their paw prints. Whether your cat is a cuddle bug or a free spirit, understanding cat personalities can help you provide better care, build trust, and deepen your bond with your own cat. At OVRS, we see cats of every temperament, and we know each one brings its own special charm.

If you’ve ever owned a cat, you’ve probably spent some time wondering if you should let them enjoy some solo time outside, or if they should remain safely indoors. While spending time in nature can satisfy some biological instincts of the feline species, it can also be quite dangerous for your animal. Oakland Veterinary Referral Services is here to lay out the risks, benefits, and a few safer options for giving indoor cats a taste of being outside cats to help you decide what’s best for your cat’s health and happiness.