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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, though the typical cost of a Solensia appointment may be higher when veterinary exam or administration fees apply.1
Learn more about what Solensia is, how much Solensia for cats may cost, and whether the treatment may be worth it for your cat.
The cost of Solensia for cats can range up to $115 per monthly injection.1 The veterinary practice you visit and location can influence the cost, but your cat’s weight is one of the main influences on the Solensia price.1,2
Cat’s Weight | Monthly Solensia Dose (per month) |
5.5 - 15.4 pounds | 1 vial |
15.5 - 30.8 pounds | 2 vials |
Other factors may affect how much Solensia for a cat costs, including:3
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.
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.4
Solensia works by targeting nerve growth factor (NGF), which plays a role in OA pain, to help block pain signals.1 By controlling OA pain, Solensia may help improve a cat’s mobility and make everyday activities easier.4
OA 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.5
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.5
A vet can formally diagnose your cat with OA, but there are signs you can look for. Symptoms of OA can include:5
Pet parents who notice these symptoms may want to schedule an exam with their vet. Cats may 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.5
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 75% 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.4
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.3
Solensia can be worth it for cats with OA because it can reduce signs of pain and improve mobility.4 Talk with your veterinarian about your cat’s response to treatment and the expected monthly expense to decide whether continuing Solensia makes sense for your cat.
Like any medication, your cat may experience possible side effects. Commonly reported Solensia side effects can include:3,4
Contact your veterinarian if you notice side effects or concerning changes after your cat receives Solensia. Seek prompt veterinary care if your cat appears to be in distress. Cats who are allergic to frunevetmab and cats who are breeding, pregnant, or lactating are advised to seek other medication.3,4
As cats age, moving around can become difficult or even painful. Solensia is FDA-approved to control pain associated with OA in cats. If you’re concerned about the cost of treating conditions like feline OA, pet insurance may help you with eligible veterinary expenses, depending on your policy’s coverage, exclusions, and other terms. Explore cat insurance from MetLife Pet to learn more.
