Revolutionary Stem Cell Therapy for Pets Gains Traction

San Diego-based startup Gallant has secured $18 million in funding to develop the first FDA-approved ready-to-use stem cell therapy for pets, marking a significant leap in veterinary medicine. The company aims to address Feline Chronic Gingivostomatitis (FCGS), a painful mouth condition in cats, with potential FDA approval by early 2026. Stem cell therapy in pets is still experimental, with encouraging results for dogs with arthritis showing improved pain management and mobility lasting up to two years. However, similar treatments for cats with kidney disease have yielded mixed outcomes. Gallant's innovative approach differs by using ready-to-use donor cells, eliminating the need for patient-specific harvesting. This convenience could revolutionize pet care, offering a new treatment avenue for conditions like FCGS. Backed by Digitalis Ventures and NovaQuest Capital Management, which previously invested in the first FDA-approved human stem cell therapy, Gallant has raised a total of $44 million. The company, now led by Linda Black following the passing of founder Aaron Hirschhorn in 2021, is poised to transform veterinary medicine with its groundbreaking approach.

Published: 7/6/2025