Beransa vs Cartrophen vs Librela: Comparing Arthritis Treatments for Dogs and Cats

If your dog or cat has been diagnosed with osteoarthritis, your vet may have discussed several treatment options including Beransa, Cartrophen, Librela, and anti-inflammatory medications. This guide explains the differences in plain language so you can have a more informed conversation with your vet.

What is osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is a progressive joint disease where protective cartilage breaks down over time, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. It is very common in older dogs and cats, and in larger breeds at any age. Because dogs and cats are stoic and tend to hide pain, many cases are identified later than ideal. If your pet seems slower on walks, reluctant to jump, or less engaged than usual, arthritis is worth discussing with your vet.

Beransa (bedinvetmab) for dogs

Beransa is a monoclonal antibody injection that targets nerve growth factor (NGF), a protein that transmits pain signals from arthritic joints. By blocking NGF, Beransa reduces pain perception at the source. It does not reduce joint inflammation or repair cartilage - it is a pain management tool.

How it is given: A monthly injection under the skin, administered by a vet.

When it starts working: Most dogs show improvement within the first month. Some owners notice a difference within one to two weeks of the first injection.

Best suited for: Dogs with moderate to severe osteoarthritis pain, particularly those who have not responded adequately to anti-inflammatory medications or Cartrophen, or dogs who cannot tolerate NSAIDs due to kidney or digestive issues.

Key consideration: Some dogs have experienced serious adverse reactions. Discuss the risks and benefits carefully with your vet, and ensure close monitoring in the first few months of treatment.

Cartrophen (pentosan polysulfate sodium) for dogs

Cartrophen is a disease-modifying osteoarthritis drug (DMOAD) with a long track record in Australian veterinary practice. It works by improving joint fluid quality, stimulating cartilage repair, reducing inflammation, and improving blood flow to joints. It addresses the joint environment directly, not just the pain.

How it is given: A course of four weekly injections, repeated every three to six months depending on response.

When it starts working: Owners typically notice improvement after the full course of four injections. The benefit often builds with repeat courses over time.

Best suited for: Dogs with early to moderate arthritis where there is still joint tissue worth supporting and repairing. Dogs who respond well to their first course often maintain good mobility for years with regular top-ups.

Key consideration: Cartrophen has an excellent, well-established safety profile. It is generally less expensive than Beransa per injection.

Can dogs have both Beransa and Cartrophen?

Yes. They work through completely different mechanisms and are not contraindicated together. Some dogs with moderate to severe arthritis are managed on both simultaneously - Cartrophen supporting the joint environment while Beransa manages pain. Your vet will advise whether this combination is appropriate for your dog.

NSAIDs (anti-inflammatory medications)

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as meloxicam and carprofen remain a cornerstone of arthritis management in dogs. They reduce both inflammation and pain and are often the first treatment prescribed. Regular blood monitoring is important for dogs on long-term NSAIDs to assess kidney and liver function. Beransa offers an alternative or addition for dogs who do not tolerate NSAIDs well, or for whom NSAIDs alone are not providing adequate relief.

Librela (frunevetmab) for cats

Cats with osteoarthritis have historically been very difficult to treat because many medications safe for dogs are toxic to cats, and NSAIDs require particularly careful monitoring in cats due to their kidney sensitivity. Librela is the feline equivalent of Beransa - a monoclonal antibody targeting NGF, developed specifically for cats.

Librela is a monthly injection and has recently become available in Australia. Early clinical experience has been positive, with many cat owners reporting meaningful improvements in mobility and engagement in cats who were previously showing subtle signs of joint pain.

Feline arthritis is significantly underdiagnosed because the signs are often subtle: less jumping onto furniture, changes in grooming habits, reduced interaction with family, increased time sleeping. If your cat is showing any of these changes, a musculoskeletal assessment is worth discussing at your next vet visit.

Talking to your vet about the right option

The right arthritis treatment depends on your pet's individual situation - their age, breed, severity of arthritis, other health conditions, and your situation as an owner. There is no single correct answer for every dog or cat.

At Eltham Veterinary Practice, we have experience with all of these treatment options and take a tailored approach for every patient. If your pet is showing signs of joint pain or reduced mobility, call us on (03) 9439 8650 or book an appointment to discuss the options.