Hypothesis/Objectives: Our primary objective is to determine the impact of Laparoscopic Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy (LVSG) on food intake and body weight in an obese feline model. We hypothesize that LVSG will lead to significant weight loss and decreased food intake in this model. A secondary objective is to determine the impact of LVSG on glucose regulation in an obese feline model. We will test the hypothesis that LVSG improves glucose regulation and increases GLP-1 secretion in cats with obesity by measuring blood glucose, insulin, and GLP-1 concentrations.

Specific Aim 1: Determine the impact of laparoscopic vertical sleeve gastrectomy (LVSG) on food intake, body weight and glucose regulation in an obese feline model. LVSG causes substantial improvements in weight and glucose regulation in human patients with obesity and impaired glucose regulation and patients with frank diabetes. While the mechanisms driving improved glucose regulation after LVSG remain incompletely understood, increased bile acid concentrations and increased secretion of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) are contributors in mouse models. In preliminary testing, we have shown that LVSG is feasible in a feline cadaver model and safe in a live animal model. To test the hypothesis that LVSG will decrease food intake and body weight and improve glucose regulation in cats with obesity, we will perform this procedure in a live feline research model. To induce obesity, cats will receive a calorically dense diet ad libitum for 3 months before surgery, as previously validated. This hypothesis will be tested by comparing pre and postoperative weight and food intake as well as assess glucose, insulin, circulating bile acid concentrations, and nutrientstimulated GLP-1 secretion after an 8 hour fast and after a full-calorie meal measured over 6 months. We will report any intraoperative and postoperative complications, morbidity (dumping syndrome, pain score), and mortalities in this population.