New Implant for Pet Obesity Shows Promise: OKV-119 Trials Underway

Scientists are advancing a new treatment aimed at combating obesity in domestic pets, specifically cats and dogs. The experimental drug, known as OKV-119, is being developed by the biotechnology firms Okava and Vivani Medical. If successful, it could be available as early as 2028 or 2029. Unlike the weekly injections used for humans, this treatment is administered through a six-month implant, raising hopes for a significant shift in how pet health is managed.

Obesity has emerged as a prevalent health concern among household pets. Recent estimates indicate that approximately 50% of dogs and 43% of cats in the UK are classified as overweight. The global figures are even more alarming, with nearly 60% of pets carrying excess weight. Veterinary experts emphasize the serious health risks associated with obesity, which can lead to diabetes, orthopedic diseases, and reduced lifespans.

The OKV-119 implant delivers exenatide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, through a small device placed under the skin. This compound is similar to semaglutide, the active ingredient in the human weight-loss drug Ozempic. GLP-1 plays a crucial role in regulating glucose levels and appetite, and its receptor agonists are already extensively used in human medicine.

According to a 2024 study published in BMC Veterinary Research, the implant was well tolerated in cats, with insertion and removal achievable within minutes. The study found that it maintained effective levels of exenatide, contributing to weight loss and reduced food intake. Following these promising results, clinical trials are now expanding to include dogs, with the aim of creating a comprehensive treatment option alongside dietary and exercise modifications.

Public interest in this new treatment has surged, with media outlets coining the term ‘Ozempup’ as a nod to the human drug. This enthusiasm reflects a broader fascination with weight-loss solutions and highlights how obesity has become an issue that parallels human lifestyle-related conditions.

Despite the excitement surrounding drug-based interventions, animal welfare organizations and veterinary experts urge caution. Caroline Allen, Chief Veterinary Officer of the RSPCA, emphasizes the importance of exercise and a balanced diet as the most effective means of addressing obesity in pets. “A healthy diet and exercise are the best ways to keep our pets happy and well,” Allen stated, acknowledging the challenges pet owners face in managing their animals’ weight.

Professor Alex German from the University of Liverpool, who established the world’s first Obesity Clinic for companion animals, notes that some dogs may have genetic predispositions that encourage overeating. He suggests that medical implants could offer valuable support for these cases but insists they should complement traditional methods of weight management.

As OKV-119 continues through its trial phases, other innovative solutions are also being explored. UK-based company Omni Pet has developed LeanPaws, a vegan supplement designed to mimic the effects of GLP-1 through a combination of amino acids, probiotics, and fiber. Early testing indicates that 77% of dogs taking the supplement experienced weight loss, while 63% showed reduced body fat and 42% displayed decreased begging behavior. LeanPaws is expected to launch in 2026, providing a natural alternative for pet owners seeking non-pharmaceutical methods for weight control.

With obesity rates among pets on the rise, the demand for effective treatments is increasing. The OKV-119 implant is advancing through broader trials and could potentially be available commercially within three to four years, pending regulatory approval. Until then, veterinarians continue to advocate for balanced diets, portion control, and regular physical activity as the foundational strategies for maintaining healthy weight in pets.