A New Era for Pet Arthritis: Solensia® & Librela®

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Mobility in aging animals is an often overlooked issue.

A dog slowing down on walks… a cat no longer jumping up to sleep in their favorite spot… often these changes are attributed to our pets “just getting old.”

While in a sense this is true, the goal of this article is to discuss ways to support your aging pet so they can continue to do the things they love for longer.

Just like us, our pets develop osteoarthritis as they age, which can cause significant discomfort. Osteoarthritis affects nearly 40% of dogs and over 60% of cats over the age of six, yet it often goes undiagnosed or undertreated. Fortunately, we now have groundbreaking treatments that are bringing real relief to our furry friends. We are so excited to share more information about two crucial tools in our arthritis management toolbox: Solensia® for cats and Librela® for dogs. 

What Are Solensia® and Librela®?

Solensia (frunevetmab) and Librela (bedinvetmab) are once-monthly injections that target nerve growth factor (NGF), a key player in the pain pathway of osteoarthritis. Both medications are monoclonal antibodies—a class of drugs that work like your pet’s own immune system to block pain signals without the side effects of traditional medications like NSAIDs.

What is Nerve Growth Factor (NGF)?

NGF is a naturally occurring protein in the body that plays a role in the growth and survival of nerve cells. However, in pets with osteoarthritis (OA), NGF levels become abnormally high. This excess NGF binds to pain receptors on nerves, intensifying and sustaining the feeling of pain in affected joints.

How Do Solensia and Librela Help?

Solensia and Librela are monoclonal antibodies.. These antibodies are designed to find and neutralize NGF, blocking its ability to attach to pain receptors. This reduces the pain signal before it even gets to the brain.

By blocking NGF, both drugs interrupt the pain cycle right at the source.

This means pets can move more comfortably and with less inflammation-related discomfort.

Why Is This Different From Traditional Pain Meds?

Traditional pain relief options like NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) work further downstream by reducing inflammation and blocking enzymes. While effective, they come with risks, especially for pets with kidney, liver, or GI sensitivities—which is unfortunately common in our older pets.

Solensia and Librela target the pain pathway earlier and more selectively, offering:

• Fewer systemic side effects

• No burden on the liver or kidneys

• A monthly injection, so there’s no need to give daily pills at home

This makes them an excellent option for long-term pain control, especially in senior pets or those who can’t tolerate NSAIDs. Many pets show improvement within the first month, but it is recommended to give at least 2 doses before evaluating the full impact. 

Are There Any Side Effects?

As with any medication, some pets may experience side effects, but Solensia and Librela are generally well-tolerated.

Solensia:

Commonly reported side effects include:

• Mild skin irritation at the injection site

• Vomiting or diarrhea (typically short-lived)

• Lethargy or decreased appetite

Librela:

Dogs may experience:

• Injection site soreness

• Digestive upset (vomiting or diarrhea)

• Increased urination or mild lethargy

Most reactions are transient and resolve on their own. Rarely, allergic reactions such as facial swelling or itching may occur—if you notice any sudden changes after an injection, contact us right away. Your veterinarian will counsel you on patient-specific eligibility and risks. 

Is It Right for Your Pet?

If your cat or dog is slowing down, struggling to stand, hesitating on stairs, or just seems “not themselves,” it may be more than just aging—it could be arthritis pain. Alicia Pet Care Center is proud to offer Solensia and Librela as part of our comprehensive arthritis treatment plans. A veterinarian can help you decide if the signs you are noticing at home are due to osteoarthritis.

We have seen firsthand the real-life impact these medications have had on aging pets. Whether it be the older cat who’s impossible to medicate or the older dog who has pre-existing conditions that prevent them from taking NSAIDs, these medications have offered an effective and life-changing alternative. Some of our favorite conversations are connecting with owners who are surprised by just how much their pets improve after we start managing their arthritic pain. Our clients tell us stories of dogs being able to play longer, stiffness improving, and cats going back to jumping onto counters. When someone tells us their pet is “playing like a puppy again,” it’s a reminder of why working in this field is so special.

In many cases, pet parents don’t realize their pet’s behaviors has changed until we treat their pain and old behaviors return. Gradual changes are so much harder to notice than those that are sudden. We would love to hear from you if Solensia or Librela has changed your own pet's life! 

More importantly, we can help you decide on appropriate therapeutic options. Let’s help our pets move—and feel—better.

Call us at 949-768-1313 or book online to schedule a consultation if you’d like to discuss if your pet is a good candidate for Solensia or Librela. Alicia Pet Care Center is located in Mission Viejo, CA and has 10 veterinarians who are well versed in Solensia and Librela.