Cat Arthritis Welfare: Solensia and Pain Recognition Advances

Overview of feline arthritis welfare, pain recognition challenges, and new treatment options.

Key Facts

Feline osteoarthritis is highly prevalent but systematically underdiagnosed
Cats hide pain effectively, making owner and veterinary recognition challenging
Frunevetmab (Solensia) is the first feline-specific biological arthritis treatment
Validated pain assessment scales are now available for clinical use
Environmental modification reduces arthritis welfare impact for affected cats

Welfare Considerations

Feline arthritis welfare in 2026 has been advanced by development of validated pain assessment tools and the introduction of Solensia, a monthly injectable biological treatment targeting pain signalling. Cats' tendency to mask pain means arthritis is frequently underdiagnosed and undertreated. Owner education about feline pain signs and regular veterinary screening of older cats are critical welfare interventions. Environmental modification to reduce jumping requirements also improves welfare.

What You Can Do

Learn to recognise subtle signs of pain in cats including reduced grooming and activity changes
Ask your vet about arthritis screening for cats over seven years old
Discuss Solensia and other treatment options with your veterinarian for arthritic cats