January 31, 2026 Back Home

What to Know About a New Weight Loss Drug for Cats

Whether it’s an extra scoop of kibble, table scraps from your leftovers, or a few more treats here and there, cats can gain weight easily.

And even though a cat with a little extra chub is an adorable sight to behold, cat obesity is a serious health concern that continues to worry veterinarians.

Since humans have found success with drugs like Ozempic, naturally some companies are wondering, “Why not cats too?”

That’s why a new Ozempic-like drug designed specifically for cats is in the first round of clinical trials and is causing a lot of meows in the pet medical field.

So how does it work and what does this mean for pet parents? Here’s what you need to know.

Introducing ‘Cat OzempiC’

You’ve probably heard of Ozempic, Wegovy, or Mounjaro, which are GLP-1 agonist drugs that help humans regulate their appetite and blood sugar, which leads to weight loss. About one in eight U.S. adults say they’ve tried a GLP-1 drug, and now similar science is being explored for cats.

Okava Pharmaceuticals, a San Francisco–based biopharmaceutical company, has launched a pilot study of a GLP-1 drug for cats called Meow-1.

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You may be thinking, “Great, so I have to give my cat injections all the time?” Well fortunately, Okava is trying a new approach with Meow-1.

Instead of getting weekly injections like human patients, the cats get small injectable implants that slowly release the drug for as long as six months. That means no needles, no pills, and no revenge from your annoyed cat.

When Will We Know More?

The Meow-1 study started its pilot phase in late 2025/early 2026, with results expected in summer 2026.

While the research is promising, it’s important to remember that this is the first testing of its kind. The drug is not approved and the long-term effects need further evaluation.

Still, experts see this as a potential new era in obesity medicine for pets, especially as obesity rates continue to rise.

Why Cat Obesity Is a Big Deal

Recent studies show that 61% of cats in the U.S. are overweight or obese. This number has been steadily climbing over the past decade.

An obese cat doesn’t just have a few extra pounds to worry about. Cat obesity can shorten their lifespan and reduce their quality of life. Overweight cats have a higher risk of developing:

• Diabetes
• Cardiovascular disease
• Orthopedic and joint issues
• Certain types of cancer
• Reduced mobility and chronic pain

And since cats are experts at hiding pain and discomfort, obesity-related health problems can go unnoticed until they become severe.

Traditional Ways to Help Cats Lose Weight

If your cat is overweight, the first thing your veterinarian will recommend is lifestyle changes. This can include:

• Diet adjustments 
• Fewer treats and table scraps
• Increased exercise

A lot of cats find success by changing one or a combination of lifestyle factors. But if they are severely overweight, have medical complications, or are not willing to exercise or eat a new food, progress can be slow.

Should You Ask Your Vet About ‘cat ozempic?‘

If your cat struggles with obesity despite diet and lifestyle changes, it’s worth having an open conversation with your veterinarian about current and emerging treatment options.

Helping your cat maintain a healthy weight is one of the best ways to give them a long, healthy life. And as science evolves, pet parents may soon have more tools than ever to support that goal.