🐾 Vet Innovations 2025: Solensia™—The First Arthritis Injection Just for Cats 🐱💉

By Dr Duncan Houston BVSc

Managing chronic pain in cats has always been a challenge. Their unique metabolism means many common pain medications are not safe for them—even a single human NSAID can cause toxicity. That’s why the introduction of Solensia™ (frunevetmab), a feline-specific arthritis treatment, is such a revolutionary step in cat medicine. 🐈✨

🦴 What Is Osteoarthritis in Cats?

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a progressive, degenerative joint disease that causes chronic pain, inflammation, and mobility issues. In cats, it’s especially underdiagnosed due to their subtle pain cues. 🧠

OA occurs when protective cartilage in joints breaks down, causing bones to rub together. This results in:

• 💢 Chronic pain and stiffness
• 🚫 Loss of mobility
• 📉 Decreased activity or play
• 📦 Difficulty jumping onto furniture or into litter boxes
• 😭 Lowered quality of life

Without treatment, arthritis continues to worsen. That’s where Solensia™ comes in. 🌈

💉 What Is Solensia™?

Solensia™ is the brand name for frunevetmab, a monthly injectable monoclonal antibody specifically developed for use in cats. It’s administered by your veterinarian only—you won’t find this at a pet store. 🏥

Key details:

• 🧪 It is a monoclonal antibody, not a traditional chemical drug
• 💉 Given via subcutaneous injection once per month
• ⏱️ Most cats show improvement in 3 weeks

🧬 How Solensia™ Works

Solensia™ targets a protein called nerve growth factor (NGF). NGF is elevated in joints affected by arthritis and contributes to pain signaling. By binding to and blocking NGF, Solensia™ interrupts this pain cycle at the source. 🎯

Because it’s an antibody—produced in a lab to mimic the body’s own immune tools—it provides highly specific, targeted pain relief with fewer systemic side effects. 🛡️

💡 Why Solensia™ Is a Game-Changer

Cats are notoriously intolerant of NSAIDs and many human medications. Solensia™ provides:

• ✅ Feline-safe pain control
• 🩺 Compatibility with kidney/liver disease patients
• 🔄 Compatibility with most other medications
• 📆 Once-monthly dosing = less stress for cats and owners

This makes Solensia™ a unique and much-needed option for managing chronic pain in older or arthritic cats. 💖🐾

📦 Dosing & Administration

Solensia™ is dosed based on weight:

• 🐈 Smaller cats: 1 vial per dose
• 🐈‍⬛ Heavier cats: 2 vials per dose

Your veterinarian will administer this injection under the skin once per month. Most cats tolerate the injection well. 💉🐾

⏱️ How Fast Does It Work?

Improvement typically begins within 3 weeks of the first injection. Some cats may require two injections before changes become noticeable. 🧭

Owners report better mobility, increased playfulness, and more engagement with their environment. 🐾🎾

⚠️ Who Should Not Receive Solensia™?

Solensia™ is not recommended for:

• ❌ Cats with known hypersensitivity to frunevetmab
• ❌ Pregnant or nursing cats
• ❌ Breeding cats

Also, Solensia™ is for cats only. It must be handled carefully in veterinary clinics. Pregnant or breastfeeding veterinary staff should avoid accidental exposure. ⚠️

😺 Reported Side Effects

Solensia™ is generally well tolerated. Most common side effects include:

• 🤮 Vomiting
• 💢 Injection site soreness

Severe reactions are rare. Let your vet know if anything unusual is observed after treatment. 🩺

📊 How Does It Compare to Other Treatments?

Compared to other pain relief options, Solensia™ offers:

• 🚫 Fewer GI and kidney side effects than NSAIDs
• 💉 Monthly injection (vs. daily pills or topicals)
• 🧬 Precision targeting of pain mechanisms

It is especially useful for senior cats or those with underlying organ issues. 🧓🐱

🧠 What About Long-Term Use?

Solensia™ is intended for long-term use. Because it’s a biologic therapy (not a drug), it integrates well with most feline systems. However, long-term data is still being gathered. 🧪🧬

Your vet will monitor your cat’s response and adjust plans as needed. 🔍

📍 Final Thoughts

Solensia™ offers real, long-awaited relief for cats suffering from osteoarthritis. It’s safe, simple, and—most importantly—tailored for cats. 🎯

If your cat struggles to jump, play, or move comfortably, this could be the solution you’ve been waiting for. 🐈❤️

Want to know if Solensia™ is right for your cat? 💬 Visit AskAVet.com or download the Ask A Vet app to connect with Dr Duncan Houston and explore feline pain management solutions today. 🐾📱