A new version of a popular weight-loss drug could help combat obesity in cats, scientists suggest.
Biotech company Akston announced last week the start of a clinical trial at Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine that will test its version of GLP-1 injections in overweight cats.
Obesity is one of the most common health problems in domestic cats: over 60 percent of cats in the US are classified as overweight or obese, according to the latest data from the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP).
A 2024 survey by APOP found that 1 in 3 cat owners in the US considered their cat to be overweight – a 17% increase over the previous year.
Just like in humans, obesity in cats leads to a range of long-term problems, including diabetes and heart disease. Experts estimate that obese cats can live 5 to 10 years less than cats of a healthy weight, which typically live 13–17 years.
How does the study work?
The clinical trial, which has just begun recruiting, will include 70 to 140 overweight or obese cats, who will receive weekly injections of AKS-562c for 11 weeks.
This drug combines GLP-1 – the same hormone used in weight loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy – with the “tail” part of an antibody, called the crystallizable region fragment.
This fused protein (Fc-fusion) platform allows the creation of therapies that better adapt to the animal's immune response.
Dr. Todd Zion, co-founder and CEO of Akston, said:
“Obesity in cats is one of the most common, yet undertreated, problems in veterinary medicine. With once-weekly GLP-1 therapy, we are addressing a huge unmet need and giving cats the opportunity to live longer, healthier lives.”
According to VCA Animal Hospitals, cats aged 8–12 years had nearly three times the risk of death if they were obese, compared to those of normal weight.
When is a cat considered overweight?
Overweight → 10–20% above ideal weight
Obese → Over 20% above ideal weight
Ideal weight varies by breed, size, age, and sex. In general:
Adult cats: 3.6–5.4 kg
Maine Coon: 7–11 kg
Siamese: 2.7–4.5 kg
Signs of obesity include:
ribs that are not easily touched
sagging or protruding belly
The study uses the standard Body Condition Score (BCS) rating system. A cat with a score of 7/9 or above qualifies for participation.
Can cats lose weight without medication?
Like humans, cats can lose weight by:
controlled diet
fixed rations
protein-rich foods
interactive games and physical activities
However, GLP-1 therapy can help by reducing their appetite and accelerating the weight loss process.
Owners' interest
Peter Sterne, owner of a 15-year-old cat named Thurston, told the Daily Mail:
“We need to register Thurston immediately.”
Currently, recruitment at Cornell University has begun and researchers are scanning the first cats. The goal is to enroll 70 cats, with the possibility of doubling to 140.
Qualification criteria:
At least 1 year old
BCS ≥ 7/9
Good general health condition
Cats are not accepted if they have:
chronic kidney disease (stage 2+)
liver disease
diabetes
pancreatitis
infectious disease
chronic enteropathy
hyperthyroidism
The study follows preliminary testing in Cornell laboratories, which showed weight loss without side effects.
Akston is also working with dogs
The company has also launched a GLP-1 program for dogs – about six months behind the program for cats.
APOP estimates that 56–60% of dogs in the US are overweight or obese.
Even moderately overweight dogs can live two years less than dogs of a healthy weight.
Dr. Patrick Carney, a professor at Cornell, said:
“We offer a tool that allows veterinarians to more effectively manage excess weight in cats – a safe and effective solution that is currently lacking. We are encouraged by the interest of owners in registering their pets.” /GazetaExpress/
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