Skip to main content
PetDosageChart

Solensia (Frunevetmab) Dosage for Cats

Monoclonal antibody (anti-nerve growth factor) ⏱ Onset: 1-2 weeks for full effect ⏳ Duration: approximately 1 month

This dosage information is for educational purposes only. Always consult your veterinarian before giving any medication to your pet. Dosages may vary based on your pet's health conditions, other medications, and individual factors.

Content reviewed by licensed veterinarians. This information is sourced from veterinary drug references including Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook and the Merck Veterinary Manual.

Dosage Calculator

Enter your cat's weight to calculate the recommended dose.

Solensia Dosage Chart for Cats by Weight

Scroll sideways to see full table

Weight Low Dose Standard Dose Max Dose Frequency
3 lbs (1.4 kg) 1.5mg 1.5mg 1.5mg once monthly (injection by veterinarian)
4 lbs (1.8 kg) 2mg 2mg 2mg once monthly (injection by veterinarian)
5 lbs (2.3 kg) 2.5mg 2.5mg 2.5mg once monthly (injection by veterinarian)
6 lbs (2.7 kg) 2.5mg 2.5mg 2.5mg once monthly (injection by veterinarian)
7 lbs (3.2 kg) 3mg 3mg 3mg once monthly (injection by veterinarian)
8 lbs (3.6 kg) 3.5mg 3.5mg 3.5mg once monthly (injection by veterinarian)
9 lbs (4.1 kg) 4mg 4mg 4mg once monthly (injection by veterinarian)
10 lbs (4.5 kg) 4.5mg 4.5mg 4.5mg once monthly (injection by veterinarian)
12 lbs (5.4 kg) 5.5mg 5.5mg 5.5mg once monthly (injection by veterinarian)
14 lbs (6.3 kg) 6.5mg 6.5mg 6.5mg once monthly (injection by veterinarian)
16 lbs (7.3 kg) 7.5mg 7.5mg 7.5mg once monthly (injection by veterinarian)
18 lbs (8.2 kg) 8mg 8mg 8mg once monthly (injection by veterinarian)
20 lbs (9.1 kg) 9mg 9mg 9mg once monthly (injection by veterinarian)
25 lbs (11.3 kg) 11.5mg 11.5mg 11.5mg once monthly (injection by veterinarian)

What is Solensia (Frunevetmab) used for in cats?

osteoarthritis pain chronic joint pain degenerative joint disease mobility improvement in senior cats

How to give Solensia to your cat

Solensia is given as a monthly subcutaneous injection by your veterinarian. There is no at-home administration. The injection is quick and generally well tolerated. Because it is a monoclonal antibody, it works differently from traditional painkillers — it targets nerve growth factor (NGF) to reduce pain signaling at the source. It does not pass through the liver or kidneys, making it an excellent choice for senior cats with organ compromise.

Available Forms

injectable

Give with Food?

No — can be given without food

Side effects of Solensia in cats

Common side effects

injection site reactions
mild vomiting
mild lethargy after injection
skin irritation at injection site

Serious side effects

  • anaphylactic reaction (rare)
  • severe vomiting
  • facial swelling
  • worsening kidney values

When to call the vet

Call your vet immediately if your cat shows any of these signs:

  • Facial swelling or hives after injection
  • Difficulty breathing after injection
  • Persistent vomiting for more than 24 hours
  • Severe lethargy lasting more than 2 days
  • No improvement in mobility after 2-3 monthly doses

Related Medications for Cats

Opioid Analgesic (Atypical)

Ultram

Tramadol

For Moderate to severe pain management

View dosage chart
Anticonvulsant / Analgesic

Neurontin

Gabapentin

For pain management

View dosage chart
Antihistamine

Benadryl

Diphenhydramine

For allergies

View dosage chart
NK1 receptor antagonist / Antiemetic

Cerenia

Maropitant

For vomiting

View dosage chart

Sources & References

The dosage information on this page is compiled from the following veterinary and pharmaceutical references:

  • Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook — the standard veterinary pharmacology reference used by veterinarians worldwide.
  • Merck Veterinary Manual — a trusted, peer-reviewed resource for veterinary professionals and pet owners.
  • DailyMed (FDA Drug Labels) — official FDA-approved drug labeling and prescribing information for Frunevetmab.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Solensia work for cat arthritis?
Solensia contains frunevetmab, a felinized monoclonal antibody that targets and neutralizes nerve growth factor (NGF), a key protein involved in pain signaling in osteoarthritis. By blocking NGF, it reduces pain at the source without relying on traditional anti-inflammatory pathways. This is revolutionary because NSAIDs are poorly tolerated by cats long-term.
Is Solensia safe for cats with kidney disease?
Yes, Solensia is considered very safe for cats with kidney disease because it is a biologic protein, not processed by the liver or kidneys. It is broken down naturally like other proteins in the body. This makes it one of the few safe long-term pain options for senior cats with chronic kidney disease.
How long does it take for Solensia to work in cats?
Some owners notice improvement within the first week, but full effects may take 2-4 weeks. If there is no noticeable improvement after the first injection, veterinarians recommend trying at least 2-3 monthly doses before concluding it is ineffective, as the response can build over time.
Does my cat need Solensia injections forever?
Solensia is intended for ongoing monthly use to manage chronic osteoarthritis pain. If injections are stopped, pain will likely return as the drug wears off over 4-6 weeks. Your vet may reassess periodically whether continued treatment is needed.
Can Solensia be used with other medications?
Yes, Solensia has no known significant drug interactions and can be used alongside other medications your cat may be taking, including kidney diets, methimazole for thyroid disease, and blood pressure medications. Always inform your vet of all current medications.

Safety Resources