Nevada City, CA — A local feline has shed 10 pounds thanks to a new pet version of Ozempic, the diabetes drug turned weight-loss sensation. While Mittens, a formerly chunky tabby from Nevada City, prances around in her newly svelte form, local diabetics are left wondering why their medication is being funneled into the latest trend in pet wellness.
Mittens, who once tipped the scales at a hefty 20 pounds, is now a lithe 10-pound feline, thanks to her owner’s latest obsession: Pet Ozempic. The drug, originally designed to help humans manage diabetes, has been adapted for the furrier members of our community. Pet wellness stores up and down Broad Street report record sales as locals rush to slim down their beloved companions.
“We just wanted Mittens to be healthier,” said Cottage Street‘s Cheryl Hasters, Mittens’ proud owner, as she showed off her cat’s new physique. “But honestly, I think she’s just happier now that she can fit into those tiny cat beds again. Who knew it would work so well?”
Local Diabetics Cry Foul: Where’s Our Ozempic?
While Mittens enjoys the perks of her new, streamlined figure, local diabetics are feeling the pinch—literally. With Ozempic supplies being redirected to the booming pet market, many in the community who rely on the drug for managing their diabetes are struggling to fill their prescriptions.
“It’s infuriating,” said Susan Miller, a Grass Valley resident who’s been battling diabetes for over a decade. “I can’t believe I’m competing with a cat for my medication. What’s next? Ozempic for goldfish? It’s getting ridiculous.”
Pharmacies from Nevada City to Grass Valley have reported shortages, some even resorting to rationing the drug. The situation has left many residents frustrated and concerned about their health, as pet owners are swapping more Ozempic doses.
The sudden popularity of Pet Ozempic has sparked an ethical debate within the community. While some argue that pets deserve the best care possible, others believe that prioritizing animal weight loss over human health is too far.
“I love my dog, but come on—this is a medication that people need to stay alive,” said Tom Henderson, a diabetic from Rough and Ready. “We’re talking about real human lives here. It’s insane that we’re even having this conversation.”
Local veterinarians have also weighed in, noting that while obesity can be an issue for pets, the use of a powerful human medication like Ozempic is an extreme measure. “We’ve been seeing more pet owners requesting Ozempic for their animals, and while it does work, it’s not without risks,” said Dr. Emily Barnard of the Nevada City Animal Clinic. “There are other ways to manage a pet’s weight that don’t involve taking medication away from humans who need it.”
Despite the controversy, the trend shows no signs of slowing down. Pet weight loss clinics are popping up across Broad Street, offering everything from diet plans to Ozempic injections for cats, dogs, and even the occasional rabbit. These clinics promise a healthier, happier pet—though the price tag can be steep financially and ethically.
“I never thought I’d see the day when people would pay more for their cat’s diet plan than their own groceries,” said one Nevada City resident who wished to remain anonymous. “But I guess that’s where we are now.”
The Ozempic shortage is just the latest chapter in Nevada County’s ongoing struggle with access to healthcare. While Mittens’ dramatic weight loss might make for a cute story, it underscores a much darker reality: the growing disparity in who gets access to life-saving medications and who doesn’t.
