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Biotech Firm Launches Trials of Long-Acting Pet Weight-Loss Implant

OKV-119 delivers a GLP-1 mimic through a six-month subcutaneous device with veterinarians highlighting behavioural side-effects alongside the need for health monitoring

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Surveys suggest 50 per cent of dogs and 43 per cent of cats are overweight
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Overview

  • Okava has launched first trials of its OKV-119 implant, containing an exenatide-based GLP-1 mimic, in dogs and cats with a commercial target around 2028–2029.
  • The chip-sized device, developed in partnership with Vivani Medical, is designed to sit under the skin and release appetite-suppressing drug steadily over six months.
  • Human GLP-1 therapies such as semaglutide and tirzepatide do not work reliably in dogs, prompting species-specific mimics to overcome canine biological differences.
  • Veterinarians warn that suppressed appetite may alter pet behaviour and mask illness, making ongoing health monitoring essential alongside any drug treatment.
  • Experts stress that diet and exercise should remain first-line obesity interventions and view GLP-1 implants as adjunct tools pending further safety, efficacy and regulatory review.