Revolt vs. Revolution for Cats
When it comes to protecting our feline friends from harmful parasites, the array of treatments available can be quite overwhelming. Two products that have recently been subject to many discussions among pet owners and veterinarians are Revolt and Revolution, both containing the active ingredient Selamectin. Here, we’ll provide an in-depth comparison of these two options, helping you make an informed decision about the best preventative care for your furry friend.
What is Revolt?
Revolt is a generic version of the well-known brand Revolution, both of which are topical parasiticides designed to protect your cat against a variety of common pests. The active ingredient, Selamectin, targets heartworms, fleas, ear mites, and certain types of ticks, as well as intestinal worms in cats.
This more affordable option is rapidly gaining popularity among cat owners for its cost-effectiveness. However, it is essential to note that just like its counterpart, Revolt requires a prescription from a vet.
What is Revolution?
Revolution, produced by Zoetis, is a trusted name in the world of pet parasite prevention. This topical solution, like Revolt, contains Selamectin and protects against a similar range of pests.
In addition to the standard Revolution, there’s also Revolution Plus. This upgraded version includes an additional active ingredient, Sarolaner, providing even broader protection by effectively killing ticks, a feature missing in the original Revolution and Revolt.
Comparing Efficacy and Safety
Given that Revolt and Revolution share the same active ingredient and concentration, they are theoretically equally effective at protecting against the same types of pests.
Anecdotal experiences from pet owners suggest that Revolt works just as well as Revolution in preventing infestations. As with any medication, however, individual animals may respond differently.
In terms of safety, both products are generally well-tolerated. However, as with all medications, there’s a small chance that your cat may experience side effects, such as temporary hair loss at the application site or mild digestive upset. Always consult your vet if you’re concerned about any reactions.
Revolution Plus – A Step Up?
Revolution Plus may be a better option if you’re specifically concerned about tick prevention. The added Sarolaner in Revolution Plus has demonstrated effective tick-killing properties, an advantage over both Revolution and Revolt.
The Cost Factor
Price is where Revolt significantly stands out. It typically retails for about half the cost of Revolution, making it an attractive option for pet owners seeking budget-friendly, effective parasite prevention.
Revolt and Revolution: An In-depth Look
Let’s delve deeper into these two products to understand more about their characteristics, application methods, and what makes them stand out in the crowded market of pet parasiticides.
Key Ingredients
Both Revolt and Revolution hinge on the power of Selamectin, a broad-spectrum antiparasitic agent. Selamectin works by disrupting the nerve signals in parasites, leading to their paralysis and eventual death. It’s effective against a range of parasites, including fleas, heartworms, ear mites, and certain types of intestinal worms.
Revolution Plus, meanwhile, ups the ante with the addition of Sarolaner. This potent ingredient expands the product’s scope to cover ticks, an essential factor for felines that spend time outdoors or live in tick-prone areas.
Application and Dosage
Revolt and Revolution are both topical treatments, meaning they are applied directly to your cat’s skin, typically at the base of the neck. The treatment should be administered once a month for continuous protection against pests.
For the medication to work effectively, it’s crucial to apply it correctly. Make sure to part your cat’s fur so the product reaches the skin and not just the coat. Following the recommended dosage is also vital, as underdosing can lead to inadequate protection, while overdosing can cause adverse reactions.
Side Effects
In general, both Revolt and Revolution are safe for most cats. Side effects, if any, are typically minor and short-lived. Some cats might experience skin reactions at the application site, such as redness or hair loss. Digestive upset has also been reported in some cases.
More severe reactions, although rare, could include symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, rapid breathing, lack of coordination, and seizures. If your cat exhibits any of these symptoms after the application, immediate veterinary attention is necessary.
User Experiences
From a user perspective, Revolt has been praised for its affordability and effectiveness, with many cat owners reporting positive experiences and successful protection against common pests. Revolution, on the other hand, has long been a favorite in the pet community due to its established reputation and proven efficacy.
Making the Right Choice
Both Revolt and Revolution offer broad-spectrum protection against common pests. If you’re looking for cost-effectiveness, Revolt is an excellent choice. However, if tick prevention is a major concern, you might want to consider the more expensive Revolution Plus.
Before making any decision, it’s important to discuss these options with your vet. They can provide tailored advice based on your cat’s specific health needs, lifestyle, and your geographical location, ensuring the best possible protection against harmful parasites.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can kittens use Revolt or Revolution?
Both Revolt and Revolution are approved for use in kittens. However, they must be of a certain age and weight. Typically, kittens should be at least eight weeks old and weigh a minimum of 2.8 pounds for Revolt, and 2.6 pounds for Revolution. Always consult your vet for the best advice on when to start treatment.
Q2: Are Revolt and Revolution waterproof?
Yes, both Revolt and Revolution are waterproof. However, it’s advised to avoid bathing your cat for at least two hours after application to ensure the treatment has fully absorbed into the skin. After this period, both treatments should remain effective even if your cat gets wet.
Q3: What if I forget to apply Revolt or Revolution on time?
If you miss a dose, apply the product as soon as you remember. Afterwards, resume the regular monthly schedule. Do not double-dose to make up for a missed application. Regular, timely treatment is critical to ensure continuous protection against parasites.
Q4: Can I use Revolt or Revolution on pregnant or nursing cats?
Revolution is considered safe for pregnant and nursing cats. While there’s limited information on Revolt, its identical composition to Revolution suggests it would have the same safety profile. However, as with any medication, it’s best to consult your vet before using these products on pregnant or nursing cats.
Q5: Will Revolt or Revolution treat an existing flea infestation?
Revolt and Revolution are primarily preventative treatments but they can also help treat existing flea infestations. They kill adult fleas and prevent flea eggs from hatching. If your cat is already infested, consider seeking additional treatment options from your vet to effectively eliminate all stages of fleas.
Q6: Can I use other flea treatments or collars with Revolt or Revolution?
You should consult your vet before combining Revolt or Revolution with other flea treatments or collars. Some products might interact negatively with each other, leading to decreased effectiveness or potential side effects.
Q7: Can Revolt or Revolution cause allergies in humans?
While uncommon, some people may experience allergies to the ingredients in these products. If you notice symptoms like skin rash, itching, or difficulty breathing after handling the medication, seek medical help immediately. Always wash your hands after applying the product, and avoid contact with your eyes and mouth.
Q8: How quickly does Revolt or Revolution start working?
Revolt and Revolution begin to work within 36 hours of application. They reach their peak efficacy after a few days. Remember, these products work best when used as a regular preventative measure, rather than a one-off treatment.
Q9: Can I use Revolt or Revolution if my cat is on other medications?
Revolt and Revolution are generally safe to use with most other medications. However, it’s crucial to inform your vet about any medications or supplements your cat is currently taking to ensure there are no harmful interactions.
Q10: How should I store Revolt or Revolution?
Both Revolt and Revolution should be stored in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. Make sure to keep them in their original packaging until it’s time for use. They should be kept out of the reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion or misuse.
Q11: Can I use Revolt or Revolution on a sick or weak cat?
It’s recommended to consult your vet before using Revolt or Revolution on a sick or weak cat. Although these products are generally safe, a cat’s health status can affect how they respond to medications. Your vet can assess whether the potential benefits of these treatments outweigh any risks for your individual pet.
Q12: Does my indoor cat need to be treated with Revolt or Revolution?
While indoor cats have a lower risk of contracting parasites, they are not completely immune. Fleas can enter homes on shoes or clothing, and some indoor cats may still have occasional access to the outdoors. Regular treatment with products like Revolt or Revolution can help provide comprehensive protection against these threats.
Q13: How do I know if the treatment is working?
After starting Revolt or Revolution treatment, observe your cat for signs of continued infestation, such as itching, restlessness, or signs of fleas in their environment. Effective treatment should decrease these symptoms. In cases of severe infestation, it may take several weeks of consistent treatment to fully eradicate fleas.
Q14: Can Revolt and Revolution treat other types of worms besides heartworms?
Yes, Revolt and Revolution can also treat roundworms and hookworms in cats. They can also control infestations of ear mites and treat and control sarcoptic mange. However, always consult with your vet for appropriate diagnosis and treatment if you suspect your cat has any type of parasite.
Q15: Can I apply Revolt or Revolution more frequently than once a month if my cat has a severe flea infestation?
It’s not typically recommended to apply Revolt or Revolution more frequently than once a month, as this is how the product is designed to work. For severe infestations, it’s better to consult with your vet who may recommend additional treatments or measures to help get the infestation under control.
Q16: Can my cat experience a flea ‘surge’ after starting Revolt or Revolution?
Some owners report noticing more fleas on their cat a day or two after starting treatment. This is because the fleas become hyperactive as the medication affects their nervous system, making them more visible. It’s a sign that the product is working, not that the infestation is getting worse.
Q17: Is it necessary to treat all pets in the household with Revolt or Revolution?
Yes, to effectively control flea infestations, all pets in the household should be treated. Fleas can easily spread between pets, and untreated animals can serve as a reservoir for the pests, undermining the effectiveness of treatment in other pets.
Q18: Can I use Revolt or Revolution year-round?
Revolt and Revolution can be used year-round for continuous parasite control. Some parasites, like heartworms, can pose a risk all year, and fleas can survive in warm indoor environments during winter. Discuss with your vet the best year-round parasite prevention strategy for your cat.
