Disease Prediction and Precision Veterinary Medicine: Applications, Opportunities, and Limitations of Artificial Intelligence in Small Animal Practice.

Artificial intelligence and machine learning are increasingly shaping the future of small animal veterinary medicine, particularly through predictive modeling that estimates disease risk. This article introduces key concepts underlying disease prediction and precision veterinary medicine and explains how diverse data sources including electronic medical records, insurance claims, wearable devices, and environmental datasets support predictive analytics. The article reviews common modeling approaches, emerging clinical applications, and the role of companion animals as sentinels in a One Health framework. It also examines practical limitations, potential biases, and ethical considerations, emphasizing that predictive tools should complement, not replace, clinical expertise in veterinary practice.