This article is sponsored content brought to you by Zoetis.
Osteoarthritis (OA) remains one of the most prevalent and impactful conditions in companion animal practice, yet it is often under-diagnosed and undertreated. Recognising the need for clear, practical guidance, the Veterinary Pain Advisory Committee (VPAC) was established as a panel of Australian veterinary specialists and experts in OA pain management, anaesthesia, rehabilitation, surgery, and feline medicine. This multidisciplinary team brings together extensive clinical experience and research expertise to develop recommendations that are both evidence-based and highly relevant to everyday practice. VPAC is proudly sponsored by Zoetis.
The Australian Guidelines for OA Pain Management, created by VPAC, offer a practical framework to help veterinarians improve outcomes for their canine and feline patients. Just a few of the Guidelines’ highlights are discussed here.
Recent studies have shown that the prevalence of OA in dogs is approximately 40%, and cases often aren’t detected unless active screening is utilised.1,2 In cats, the prevalence is even more striking, with up to 90% of those over twelve years of age exhibiting radiographic evidence of OA.3 A recent study highlighted that only 1% of cats were identified as having orthopaedic issues with standard diagnostic methods, but 39% showed OA-related behaviours when a Feline OA Checklist was utilised for screening.4
These statistics highlight a clear message: OA is not just a disease of the elderly or the obviously lame. Subtle changes in mobility, behaviour, or activity levels can be early indicators, and timely recognition is critical. The Guidelines emphasise the importance of systematic owner questionnaires and thorough musculoskeletal examinations, pointing out that OA can—and does—affect young animals as well as seniors.
The approach to managing OA pain is most effective when it is multimodal, combining pharmacological and non-pharmacological strategies tailored to each patient. The Guidelines recommend anti-nerve growth factor monoclonal antibodies (bedinvetmab for dogs, frunevetmab for cats) or NSAIDs as first-line therapies, with adjunct options including NMDA antagonists, gabapentinoids, and, in select cases, tramadol (cats only) or cannabidiol.
Beyond medication, the Guidelines underscore the vital role of weight management, structured exercise, a suitable diet, and physiotherapy. Even modest weight loss can result in marked improvements in comfort and mobility.
Rehabilitation strategies and environmental modifications—such as ramps, non-slip flooring, and raised feeding stations—are simple yet effective ways to support mobility and independence.
Adequately engaging pet owners is a cornerstone of successful OA management. The Guidelines provide tools such as practical checklists and advocate for regular follow-up to monitor progress and adjust care plans as needed. By fostering a collaborative relationship with owners, veterinarians can ensure that OA is managed proactively, leading to better outcomes for all involved.
The VPAC Guidelines are designed to be a resource for every member of the veterinary team, supporting a standard of care that reflects the latest evidence and clinical expertise. By integrating these recommendations into daily practice, veterinary teams can make a tangible difference in the lives of their patients—reducing pain, preserving mobility, and strengthening the human-animal bond.
Explore the Guidelines’ recommendations and discover how they can support you in delivering the best, most effective and compassionate care for your osteoarthritis patients.
References: 1. Wright A et al. Identification of canine osteoarthritis using an owner-reported questionnaire and treatment monitoring using functional mobility tests. JSAP. 2022 Aug;63(8):609-18. doi.org/10.1111/jsap.13500s
2. Corral M. et al. A prospective, randomized, blinded, placebo-controlled multisite clinical study of bedinvetmab, a canine monoclonal antibody targeting nerve growth factor, in dogs with osteoarthritis. Veterinary Anaes Analg 2021. doi.org/10.1016/j.vaa.2021.08.001
3. Hardie EM et al. Radiographic evidence of degenerative joint disease in geriatric cats: 100 cases (1994–1997). JAVMA 2002;220(5):628-632. doi.org/10.2460/javma.2002.220.628
4. Gober M. Implementation of a prospective in-clinic validated Feline Osteoarthritis Checklist. JFMS 2025 Oct;27(10). doi.org/10.1177/1098612X251368007
