If osteoarthritis (OA) is causing your cat pain, you may wonder what treatment options could provide relief. The good news is veterinary scientists have developed a medication that can help. Solensia™ (frunevetmab) is an FDA-approved injectable medication that can alleviate OA pain in cats. While Solensia prices may vary, you can typically expect to pay $75 – $115 per dose.1
Learn more about what Solensia is and what it could potentially cost you.
How Much Does Solensia for Cats Cost?
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMAⓇ), Solensia usually costs around $75 for cats under 15.4 pounds and $115 for cats over 15.4 pounds.1 But other factors can influence the cost, including:
- Where you live
- The type of vet you see (clinics vs. hospital fees)
- The cost of labor of the vet
- The dosage your cat needs
Shop around for a vet that fits your budget if your cat needs Solensia, so you can save on monthly vet visits. Cat insurance may also help cover the cost of Solensia injections and other pain relief treatments.
What Is Solensia for Cats?
Solensia is a medication developed by Zoetis, and it’s the first of its kind. It can be used to help control pain associated with OA in cats and is given as a monthly injection at the veterinarian's office.2
Solensia contains a sterilized chemical called frunevetmab. Frunevetmab is a type of anti-nerve regulating agent that binds to nerve growth factor (NGF) in cats and blocks their pain signals.3 The goal is to reduce pain and allow the cat’s body to better manage the effects of OA.
Pain Relief Doesn’t Have to Cost a Lot
What Is Osteoarthritis in Cats?
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that affects cartilage — the smooth, flexible tissue that covers the ends of bones in a joint. As the cartilage breaks down, the bones may rub against each other. This bone-to-bone friction can cause chronic pain, stiffness, and inflammation.4
OA most commonly affects the ankles, elbows, hips, knees, and shoulders in older cats. But keep in mind that OA can develop at any age, especially if there’s been a previous injury or trauma to the joint.4
How Do I Know My Cat Has Osteoarthritis and Needs Solensia?
A vet can formally diagnose your cat with OA, but there are signs you can look for. Symptoms of OA can include:4
- Decreased activity or reluctance to move
- Limping or stiffness
- Difficulty jumping or climbing
- Irritability or aggression, especially when touched
- Loss of appetite and/or weight
- Changes in grooming behavior
Pet parents who notice these symptoms may want to schedule an exam with their vet. Cats will likely need X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans to identify which joints are inflamed.
It may take several tests and exams before your vet can confidently create an arthritis treatment plan for your cat. OA is a progressive disease that can’t be cured, but it’s typically managed with a combination of medications (that could include Solensia) and physical therapies.4
What Should I Expect When My Cat Uses Solensia?
Your vet may prescribe Solensia if other pain management methods haven’t worked for your cat. If your cat hasn’t been able to move around or play like they used to, Solensia may help them return to their daily activities with decreased pain.
You may see results quickly, with noticeable improvement after one treatment. In fact, a 3-month study found that over 77% of cat owners whose pets got one monthly injection of Solensia saw improvement in signs of pain, compared to 67% of those whose cats received a placebo.2
However, unlike insulin injections, you can’t administer the Solensia injections at home. Pet parents will have to visit the vet monthly for the medication to be administered.2
Are There Any Side Effects for Cats Taking Solensia?
Like any medication, there are some side effects your cat may experience. Commonly reported Solensia side effects can include:3
- Vomiting
- Pain and redness at the injection site
- Diarrhea
- Dermatitis/eczema
- Lethargy
Speak with your vet if these symptoms persist for more than 3 days or get worse. Severe allergic reactions, like anaphylaxis, to Solensia are rare.2,3 If your cat is showing signs of distress, it may be a good idea to take them to an emergency clinic for evaluation.
Cats who are allergic to frunevetmab and cats who are breeding, pregnant, or lactating are advised to seek other medication.3
Does Your Cat Need Solensia? MetLife Pet Can Help
As cats age, moving around can become difficult or even painful. Solensia is a medication that could provide a better quality of life for cats with OA. To help make Solensia more affordable, consider enrolling in a cat insurance policy from MetLife Pet.
Pet Insurance Can Help Cover Pet Injury & Illness Costs
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