A new study has investigated a weight-loss treatment designed specifically for domestic cats, potentially offering a new tool to combat the growing problem of pet obesity. The trial, led by biotechnology company Okava Pharmaceuticals, uses a small implant that delivers a GLP-1–based drug over several months, reducing appetite and encouraging gradual weight loss.
The implant is called OKV-119. It is placed under the skin of the cat and delivers a continuous and steady dose of the medication for more than six months. The study has been named MEOW-1. It will take into consideration around 50 cats and keep a track of their health outcomes. This includes weight changes, metabolic indicators and body composition. Researchers have planned an initial evaluation at the three-month point, which will include continued monitoring throughout the entire six-month timeframe.
“This is a pioneering study,” said Dr. Jennifer Smith, a veterinarian not affiliated with the trial. “Obesity in cats is a serious concern, and this research could help provide additional options for managing it, though safety will be the key factor.”
Obesity is considered a widespread disease in pets in the United States. As per the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, about 61% of cats in the US are obese or overweight. The excessive weight in cats comes with a higher diabetes risk, arthritis, liver disease and other such chronic conditions. This makes weight management a very important aspect of veterinary care.
GLP-1 medications are used for managing blood sugar as well as weight. It works by slowing the gastric emptying, thereby lowering appetite. However, cats are known to process medicines in a different way than people. Because of this, side effects, like gastrointestinal issues or changes in metabolism, can still remain a concern. The MEOW-1 trial will closely monitor all participating cats to identify any adverse effects.
With the approval, the medicine could cost about $100 USD (£75.01) every month. While this can be more expensive than exercise and diet interventions, the drug could provide a helpful alternative for many cats that are struggling to lose weight with the use of just traditional methods.
Experts emphasise that this kind of medication should complement and not replace foundational strategies for weight management. Regular exercise and diet control are still considered the most effective ways to help your pets maintain a healthy weight. Drug treatments may become a useful addition, but they aren’t a substitute for proper care.
If the trial produces favourable results, Okava aims to submit the drug for regulatory approval by 2027 or 2028. The study is expected to offer key insights into safe dosing and whether the medication can effectively help cats lose weight without adverse effects.
The study has drawn attention for its potential impact on other pets. Although GLP-1 medications are commonly prescribed for humans, their use in animals is still largely untested. Positive outcomes in cats might pave the way for similar treatments in dogs, but veterinarians caution that differences in metabolism and safety considerations would require careful study.
Pet obesity also has financial consequences for owners. Overweight pets are more prone to illness, often requiring additional veterinary care and medication, which can lead to higher costs over time. Effective weight-loss treatments could help reduce these expenses by lowering the risk of obesity-related health problems.
Animal welfare advocates, however, urge caution. They stress that medications should not replace proper care and healthy lifestyles. “Even if a drug is available, responsible pet ownership involves attention to diet, exercise, and regular veterinary checkups,” said Dr. Smith. “Medications should supplement, not substitute, basic care.”
The MEOW-1 study represents a cautious but potentially significant step forward in addressing feline obesity. Researchers hope it will provide reliable data on the safety and effectiveness of GLP-1 implants, offering veterinarians and pet owners a potential new tool to help cats achieve healthier weights and improve quality of life.
With the continuation of the trials, veterinarians and pet owners will be watching closely. Many strategies for weight management are considered the cornerstone of feline health, but many emerging treatments, such as OKV-119, could help in expanding available options, improving both the lifespan and overall well-being for overweight cats.
Source
https://thehill.com/policy/healthcare/5636078-weight-loss-medication-cats
