A New Frontier in Veterinary Care

A New Frontier in Veterinary Care:

Monoclonal Antibody Treatments for Dogs & Cats

By Heather Gulde – Hospital Manager at Terrell Heights Veterinary Hospital

Veterinary medicine is evolving quickly! One of the most exciting advances for dogs and cats involves monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). Monoclonal antibodies are bio-engineered proteins that mimic the immune system’s ability to fight disease (Zoetis, n.d.-a). Unlike traditional medications, monoclonal antibodies are able to bind to very specific targets in the body, which can mean better outcomes with fewer side effects (Zoetis, n.d.-a). These highly targeted biologics are transforming how veterinarians manage allergies, chronic pain, and infectious disease in our companion animals.

Allergy Relief: Itch Control in Dogs

Cytopoint (lokivetmab) has become one of the most widely used mAbs in veterinary medicine. Unlike steroids or other immune suppressants, Cytopoint targets interleukin-31, an “itch inducing protein” in dogs with atopic dermatitis (allergic skin disease) (Zoetis, 2022). A single injection can provide relief for up to 4-8 weeks, making it especially helpful for dogs who struggle with constant itching and skin irritation.

Pain Relief for Osteoarthritis in Dogs and Cats

Chronic joint pain from osteoarthritis (OA) affects a large number of dogs and cats, hindering mobility and quality of life. Librela (bedinvetmab) is a monthly injection given by your veterinarian designed to help control pain from OA in dogs. According to Zoetis, Librela works by blocking the nerve growth factor protein involved in signaling pain in joints (Zoetis, n.d.-b). 

For felines with arthritis, Solensia (frunevetmab) has been a game changer. According to Zoetis, 40% of all cats have arthritis at some point in their lives (Zoetis, 2026). Solensia provides relief from arthritic pain by targeting the same nerve growth factor pathway as Librela. If your cat “bunny hops”, has trouble jumping up and down, or has stopped “making biscuits”, he may have osteoarthritis. Solencia could offer comfort and better mobility with a simple monthly shot.

Fighting Parvovirus

One of the most promising new uses of mAbs is in infectious disease. According to Elanco, the canine parvovirus monoclonal antibody can be used in dogs eight weeks and older to help treat dogs infected with parvovirus. This therapeutic antibody works by binding to the virus and neutralizing it, helping to block viral replication while other supportive care is provided  (Elanco, n.d.). While still relatively new and often used in emergency or specialty settings, it’s a powerful addition to the tools veterinarians have against this deadly virus.

Experimental & Emerging Applications

Beyond allergies, pain, and infection, monoclonal antibodies are beginning to make their way into other therapies. A new mAb called gilvetmab is undergoing research by pharmaceutical companies like Merck, for the treatment of mast cell tumors and melanomas as part of immunotherapy approaches that help the dog’s own immune system recognize and fight cancer cells (Merck Animal Health, 2025). Additional cutting-edge research is under way for a range of conditions in pets, including kidney disease, heart disease, and autoimmune disorders. Monoclonal antibodies are expanding what’s possible for pets. Talk with your veterinarian to learn how these treatments might benefit your dog or cat—and what to expect at your next visit.

Sources:

Canine Parvovirus Monoclonal Antibody. (n.d.). My.elanco.com. https://my.elanco.com/us/parvovirus

Gilvetmab®. (2025, November 25). Merck Animal Health USA. https://www.merck-animal-health-usa.com/hub/gilvetmab/

Monoclonal Antibodies. (2026). Vin.com. https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&catId=254055&id=12932249

Zoetis Receives USDA License for CYTOPOINTTM. (2022). Zoetis.com. https://news.zoetis.com/press-releases/press-release-details/2016/Zoetis-Receives-USDA-License-for-CYTOPOINT/default.aspx

Zoetis. (n.d.). Librela. Zoetis Petcare. https://www.zoetispetcare.com/products/librela

Zoetis. (2026). Zoetis.ca. https://www2.zoetis.ca/solensia/consumer