Could ‘Cat Ozempic’ Be Coming to a Vet Near You? New Weight Loss Implant Shows Promise

In a development that could reshape feline weight management, a new implantable drug dubbed “MEOW-1” – or ManagEment of OverWeight cats with OKV-119 – is undergoing clinical trials. Inspired by the human weight loss drug Ozempic, this treatment offers a potential solution for the growing problem of obesity in cats, with hopes for FDA approval as early as 2027 or 2028.

The Rise of GLP-1 Drugs and Their Potential for Pets

The foundation of MEOW-1 lies in GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) drugs, initially designed to treat Type 2 diabetes in humans. Drugs like Ozempic work by mimicking a natural hormone that regulates blood sugar, boosts insulin production, slows digestion, and reduces appetite. Their effectiveness for weight management has led to increased use among people, with over 12% of U.S. Adults reporting use for weight loss in the past year .

How MEOW-1 Works: A Subcutaneous Implant

Unlike the injectable form used in humans, MEOW-1 is administered as a small implant, slightly larger than a microchip, placed under the cat’s skin. Developed by Okava Pharmaceuticals in partnership with University of Florida veterinary professor Dr. Chen Gilor, the implant slowly releases the medication over a period of six months . “You insert that capsule under the skin, and then you come back six months later, and the cat has lost the weight,” explains Dr. Gilor .

Addressing a Critical Necessitate: Obesity and Diabetes in Cats

The impetus for developing MEOW-1 stems from the high prevalence of obesity and diabetes in the feline population. Approximately 60% of the 70 million cats in the U.S. Are overweight or obese, and around 600,000 cats suffer from diabetes . Dr. Gilor, who has studied GLP-1 drugs for two decades, initially focused on treating feline diabetes but recognized the drugs’ potential for obesity management. He notes that cats are particularly well-suited for GLP-1 treatment, as approximately 80% of diabetic cats have Type 2 diabetes, while dogs primarily develop Type 1 .

Clinical Trial Details and Expected Outcomes

The MEOW-1 clinical trial, which began in December 2025, involves approximately 50 obese cats . It is a randomized, placebo-controlled study evaluating the safety and effectiveness of the implant over a three-month period, with the possibility of a three-month extension . Researchers are monitoring changes in body weight, metabolic markers, and overall tolerability. Early results indicate that cats receiving the implant are losing weight, while those in the placebo group are not.

Potential Benefits and Concerns

Veterinarians spot potential benefits in managing weight-related health issues in cats. Obesity can lead to a range of problems, including diabetes, joint issues, urinary issues, and certain cancers, as well as increased stress on the heart. Maintaining a healthy weight can extend a cat’s lifespan and improve their quality of life. Still, some veterinarians, like Dr. Kaela Navarro of Suburban Animal Hospital, express concern about potential appetite loss in cats receiving MEOW-1 . There are also theoretical concerns about inflammatory reactions to the implant, though Dr. Gilor maintains the implant material is inert and unlikely to cause inflammation .

Cost and Availability

If approved by the FDA, MEOW-1 is expected to be commercially available by 2028, with an estimated cost of $100 per month . Results from the current trial are anticipated this summer.