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Cat obesity battle: New implants offer hope
2 Dec
Summary
- Obese cats are being tested with new long-acting GLP-1 drug implants.
- Implants release medication over six months, offering a low-maintenance solution.
- The study results are anticipated by next summer.
A groundbreaking pilot study is exploring a new method to combat rising obesity in cats. Instead of weekly injections, cats will receive small, injectable implants that gradually release a GLP-1 drug over six months. This innovative approach aims to provide a low-maintenance solution for pet owners concerned about their cats' weight.
Pet owners' awareness of pet obesity is growing, with more recognizing their pets as overweight or obese compared to previous years. Okava Pharmaceuticals hopes to price its GLP-1 implant affordably, comparable to high-end pet food. This could potentially prevent or help manage conditions like diabetes, which can be costly and labor-intensive to treat.
While some experts note challenges with existing treatments and owner preferences, the implant is hailed as potentially "magic." If the study, with results expected next summer, proves successful, it could pave the way for a new era of GLP-1 drug applications in veterinary care, targeting prediabetic and obese pets with specialized formulations.
