π± Revolution Plus for Cats: The Ultimate Guide to Feline Parasite Protection
Revolution Plus is a veterinarian-recommended, broad-spectrum parasite preventative that protects cats against fleas, ticks, heartworms, ear mites, roundworms, and hookworms. Unlike the original Revolution, Revolution Plus contains sarolaner, which makes it one of the only feline treatments that effectively kills ticksβa major advantage in tick-prone areas.
π Key Takeaways: Quick Answers to Common Questions
Question | Quick Answer πΎ |
---|---|
What does Revolution Plus protect against? | Fleas, ticks, heartworms, roundworms, hookworms, and ear mites. |
How often should it be applied? | Once a month, topically on the skin. |
Is it prescription-only? | Yes, in the USA, a veterinarian prescription is required. |
How fast does it work? | Kills fleas in 6 hours and ticks in 24 hours. |
Is it safe for kittens? | Yes, for kittens 8 weeks and older, weighing at least 2.8 lbs. |
What are the side effects? | Mild irritation at the application site, lethargy, rare neurological effects (seizures in sensitive cats). |
Does it protect against tapeworms? | No, but by killing fleas (which transmit tapeworms), it helps reduce the risk. |
Is it waterproof? | Yes, but avoid bathing your cat for 24 hours after application. |
π¦ What Parasites Does Revolution Plus Protect Against?
Revolution Plus provides 6-in-1 protection against some of the most common parasites that affect cats in the USA.
π What Revolution Plus Protects Against & How It Works
Parasite π¦ | Effectiveness β | How It Works βοΈ |
---|---|---|
Fleas π | β Kills within 6 hours | Breaks the flea life cycle by preventing eggs from hatching. |
Ticks π·οΈ | β Kills 4 common U.S. tick species | Protects against Lyme disease-carrying black-legged ticks for up to 5 weeks. |
Heartworms β€οΈ | β Prevents heartworm disease | Stops larvae transmission from mosquito bites. |
Ear Mites π | β Treats and prevents infestations | Eliminates mites and relieves itching. |
Roundworms π | β Reduces egg shedding by 100% | Kills parasites that cause vomiting, weight loss, and lethargy. |
Hookworms β οΈ | β Prevents anemia-causing infestations | Eliminates intestinal worms that attach to the gut lining. |
π‘ Pro Tip: Even indoor cats need protection. Fleas, ticks, and heartworm-carrying mosquitoes can enter homes through open windows, clothing, or other pets.
π©Ί How Does Revolution Plus Work?
Revolution Plus contains two powerful active ingredients that work together to eliminate internal and external parasites.
π How Revolution Plusβs Ingredients Work
Active Ingredient π | What It Targets π¦ | How It Works βοΈ |
---|---|---|
Selamectin | Fleas, heartworms, ear mites, roundworms, hookworms | Absorbed through the skin, paralyzes parasites by disrupting nerve function. |
Sarolaner | Fleas, ticks | Overstimulates the nervous system of parasites, leading to rapid death. |
π‘ Pro Tip: Revolution Plus should be applied to the skin, NOT ingested. If your cat licks the application site, it may cause drooling or temporary discomfortβbut it is not toxic.
π¦ How to Apply Revolution Plus: Step-by-Step Guide
Proper application ensures maximum effectiveness! Follow these simple steps to keep your cat protected.
π Step-by-Step Application Guide for Revolution Plus
Step π₯ | Instructions π |
---|---|
1. Choose the correct dose | Use the appropriate weight-based dose (Gold, Orange, or Green box). |
2. Part the fur | Locate the base of your catβs neck (between the shoulder blades) and part the fur to expose the skin. |
3. Apply the liquid | Empty the entire tube onto the skinβdo not rub it in. |
4. Let it dry | Avoid touching the area for at least 2 hours and do not bathe your cat for 24 hours. |
5. Repeat monthly | Apply every 30 days for continuous protection. |
π‘ Pro Tip: If your cat has a thick coat, ensure the liquid reaches the skin. Applying it directly onto the fur reduces absorption and effectiveness.
βοΈ How Does Revolution Plus Compare to Other Flea & Tick Treatments?
π Revolution Plus vs. Other Popular Parasite Preventatives
Feature π¬ | Revolution Plus β | Revolution (Original) β | NexGard Combo β | Bravecto Plus π |
---|---|---|---|---|
Flea & Tick Protection π¦ | β Yes, kills both | β No tick protection | β Yes | β Yes, but lasts 2 months |
Heartworm Prevention β€οΈ | β Yes | β Yes | β Yes | β Yes |
Roundworms & Hookworms π | β Yes | β Yes | β Yes | β Yes |
Ear Mites π | β Yes | β Yes | β No | β Yes |
Prescription Needed? π₯ | β Yes | β Yes | β Yes | β Yes |
Application Frequency β³ | Every 30 days | Every 30 days | Every 30 days | Every 60 days |
π‘ Pro Tip: If you live in a high-tick area, Revolution Plus is one of the best monthly preventatives to keep your cat safe.
β οΈ Revolution Plus Side Effects: What to Watch For
π Common Side Effects & How to Manage Them
Side Effect π¨ | How Common? π | What to Do β |
---|---|---|
Mild hair loss at application site | Rare | Usually resolves on its own. |
Lethargy or decreased appetite | Occasional | Monitor for 24 hours; contact vet if it persists. |
Tremors, incoordination, or seizures | Very rare | Discontinue use and consult a vet immediately. |
π‘ Pro Tip: If your cat has a history of seizures or neurological conditions, talk to your vet before using Revolution Plus, as isoxazolines (sarolaner) have been linked to rare neurological side effects.
π° Cost & Where to Buy Revolution Plus in the USA
π Where to Buy & Pricing Guide
Retailer πͺ | Estimated Price π΅ | Prescription Required? π |
---|---|---|
Chewy | $50β$60 for 3 doses | β Yes |
Petco & PetSmart | $55β$65 for 3 doses | β Yes |
Vet Clinics | Varies | β Yes |
Online Pet Pharmacies (1-800-PetMeds, Allivet) | $50β$65 for 3 doses | β Yes |
π‘ Pro Tip: Avoid non-prescription sources! Some online stores claim to sell it without a prescription, but these products may be counterfeit or expired.
πΎ Final Thoughts: Is Revolution Plus the Best Choice for Your Cat?
β Best For:
- βοΈ Cat owners looking for a single, all-in-one monthly parasite preventative.
- βοΈ Cats who go outdoors or live in tick-prone areas.
- βοΈ Households with multiple pets needing comprehensive parasite control.
π« Not Ideal For:
- β Cats with a history of seizures (ask your vet first).
- β Owners looking for non-prescription flea control options.
π‘ Verdict: Revolution Plus is one of the most trusted and effective monthly parasite preventatives for cats. If youβre looking for reliable, vet-approved protection against fleas, ticks, and worms, itβs hard to beat. πΎ
π¬ Expert Responses to Your Questions!
π¨οΈ Comment 1: “How long does Revolution Plus take to start working?”
β Revolution Plus begins working quickly after application, with flea-killing effects starting within just 6 hours and tick-killing effects within 24 hours. The active ingredients, selamectin and sarolaner, rapidly absorb into the skin and bloodstream, allowing for fast action against multiple parasites.
π Timeframe for Revolution Plus Effectiveness
Parasite π¦ | Time to Kill After Application β³ | How It Works βοΈ |
---|---|---|
Fleas π | Within 6 hours | Disrupts flea nervous system, causing rapid death before they can lay eggs. |
Ticks π·οΈ | Within 24 hours | Sarolaner overstimulates tick nerve cells, leading to paralysis and death. |
Heartworms β€οΈ | Prevents new infections (not existing ones) | Kills larval stages of heartworm before they mature. |
Ear Mites π | Within 3β7 days | Eliminates mites and soothes inflammation. |
Roundworms & Hookworms π | Within 48 hours | Interferes with the wormsβ ability to survive in the intestines. |
π‘ Pro Tip: For severe flea infestations, continue monthly applications for at least 3 months to fully break the flea life cycle and prevent reinfestation.
π¨οΈ Comment 2: “Can I bathe my cat after applying Revolution Plus?”
β οΈ You should wait at least 24 hours after application before bathing your cat. The medication needs time to fully absorb into the skin and distribute throughout the body. Bathing too soon could reduce its effectiveness, especially against fleas and ticks.
π Bathing & Revolution Plus: Best Practices
Scenario πΏ | Safe to Bathe? β β | Why It Matters β οΈ |
---|---|---|
Less than 24 hours after application | β Not recommended | The medication may not have fully absorbed. |
More than 24 hours after application | β Yes, safe | Once absorbed, water will not affect effectiveness. |
Frequent bathing (weekly) | β οΈ Use caution | May shorten flea & tick protection duration. |
Waterless shampoos/wipes | β Safe anytime | Ideal for spot-cleaning without affecting absorption. |
π‘ Pro Tip: If your cat needs frequent baths, consider a longer-lasting alternative like Bravecto Plus, which provides 2 months of protection per dose.
π¨οΈ Comment 3: “Does Revolution Plus kill ear mites immediately?”
β Revolution Plus starts working against ear mites within a few days, but complete elimination may take up to a week. The active ingredient, selamectin, disrupts the mitesβ nervous system, preventing them from feeding and reproducing.
π Timeline for Ear Mite Treatment with Revolution Plus
Stage of Treatment β³ | Whatβs Happening? π¬ | What to Expect π± |
---|---|---|
Day 1β3 | Medication begins affecting mites. | Scratching may continue as mites die off. |
Day 4β7 | Most mites are eliminated. | Itching should start to improve significantly. |
After 1 week | Full resolution in most cases. | Ears should be clean, free of debris. |
π‘ Pro Tip: If your cat still has symptoms after 2 weeks, consult your vet, as a secondary bacterial infection may require additional treatment.
π¨οΈ Comment 4: “Is Revolution Plus safe for cats with neurological disorders?”
β οΈ Use with caution! While most cats tolerate Revolution Plus well, sarolaner (one of the active ingredients) belongs to the isoxazoline class, which has been linked to rare cases of tremors, ataxia (loss of coordination), and seizures in cats with pre-existing neurological issues.
π Neurological Risks & Revolution Plus
Condition π§ | Can It Be Used? β β | Vet Consultation Needed? π₯ |
---|---|---|
History of seizures β‘ | β οΈ Use with caution | β Yes, always consult a vet first. |
Previous reaction to isoxazolines β | β Not recommended | β Vet may suggest an alternative. |
Mild neurological issues 𧩠| β οΈ Only if approved by a vet | β Monitoring is required. |
No prior neurological issues β | β Safe to use | β Routine monitoring only. |
π‘ Pro Tip: If your cat has a history of seizures, your vet may recommend switching to the original Revolution (which lacks sarolaner) for a safer option.
π¨οΈ Comment 5: “What should I do if my cat licks Revolution Plus after application?”
β οΈ If your cat licks the medication immediately after application, they may experience temporary drooling or mild stomach upset. While Revolution Plus is not highly toxic when ingested, itβs formulated for topical use, so oral exposure should be minimized.
π What Happens if a Cat Licks Revolution Plus?
Symptom πΏ | Is It Dangerous? ββ | What to Do π₯ |
---|---|---|
Drooling (hypersalivation) π€€ | β Mild, temporary effect | Offer water, monitor for improvement. |
Mild nausea or vomiting π€’ | β Uncommon but possible | Provide food and observe. |
Lethargy or weakness π΄ | β οΈ Rare, but monitor closely | If persistent, call your vet. |
Neurological signs (tremors, seizures) β‘ | π¨ Very rare but serious | Seek immediate vet attention. |
π‘ Pro Tip: To prevent licking, apply Revolution Plus at the base of the neck, between the shoulder blades, where cats canβt easily reach.
π¨οΈ Comment 6: “Can Revolution Plus be used for dogs?”
β No! Revolution Plus is specifically formulated for cats and should NOT be used on dogs. Dogs require different dosages and formulations for parasite prevention.
π Why Revolution Plus Should NOT Be Used on Dogs
Reason π¨ | Why It Matters β οΈ |
---|---|
Dosage Differences | Cats and dogs metabolize selamectin and sarolaner differently. |
Dog-Specific Formulas Exist | Revolution for Dogs and Simparica Trio contain safer dosages for canines. |
Risk of Overdose | The concentration in Revolution Plus may be too strong for some dogs. |
π‘ Pro Tip: For multi-pet households, ensure that each pet receives the correct Revolution product. Mixing feline and canine formulations can be dangerous.
π¨οΈ Comment 7: “What happens if I miss a dose of Revolution Plus?”
β οΈ If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as possible. However, if itβs close to the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue the regular schedule.
π Missed Dose Protocol for Revolution Plus
Time Since Last Dose β³ | What to Do? β |
---|---|
A few days late (under 2 weeks) | Apply immediately and continue monthly dosing. |
Over 2 weeks late | Apply ASAP and watch for fleas/ticks. |
More than a month late | Consult your vetβyour cat may need additional parasite testing. |
π‘ Pro Tip: Set a recurring reminder on your phone to apply Revolution Plus on the same day each month to prevent missed doses!
π¨οΈ Comment 8: “Can Revolution Plus be used on pregnant or nursing cats?”
β οΈ Revolution Plus is NOT officially approved for use in pregnant, breeding, or nursing cats. While the original Revolution (selamectin-only) has been used off-label in pregnant queens under veterinary supervision, the added ingredient, sarolaner, has not been sufficiently studied for safety in pregnant or lactating cats.
π Revolution Plus & Pregnancy/Nursing: What to Know
Stage of Reproduction π± | Safe to Use? β β | Alternative Treatments π₯ |
---|---|---|
Pregnant Cats π€° | β Not recommended | Ask your vet about using original Revolution instead. |
Nursing Mothers πΌ | β Not officially approved | Potential risk to nursing kittens due to drug transfer in milk. |
Breeding Females π‘ | β Not enough safety data | Consult a vet before use. |
π‘ Pro Tip: If your pregnant or nursing cat requires parasite protection, consult your vet for safer alternatives, such as single-ingredient products like selamectin-only Revolution.
π¨οΈ Comment 9: “Can Revolution Plus cause allergic reactions in cats?”
β While rare, some cats may have mild to moderate allergic reactions to Revolution Plus. This can be due to hypersensitivity to the active ingredients (selamectin, sarolaner) or the carrier solution.
π Signs of an Allergic Reaction to Revolution Plus & What to Do
Symptom π¨ | Mild Reaction? β οΈ | Severe Reaction? π | What to Do β |
---|---|---|---|
Redness or mild irritation at application site | β οΈ Yes, mild | β No | Monitor, should resolve in 24β48 hours. |
Excessive scratching or licking | β οΈ Yes | β No | Keep an eye on behavior, use an Elizabethan collar if needed. |
Swelling of face, lips, or eyes | β No | π Yes | Seek immediate veterinary care! |
Difficulty breathing, severe lethargy | β No | π Yes | Emergency vet visit required. |
π‘ Pro Tip: If your cat experiences a severe reaction, your vet may recommend a different flea & tick preventative, such as Bravecto Plus or Advantage Multi.
π¨οΈ Comment 10: “Can Revolution Plus be used on very small kittens under 2.8 lbs?”
β No, Revolution Plus is only approved for kittens 8 weeks or older and weighing at least 2.8 lbs. Using it on smaller kittens may increase the risk of overdose and adverse effects, including excessive sedation or neurological issues.
π Flea & Parasite Protection Options for Kittens Under 2.8 lbs
Kittenβs Age & Weight πΌ | Safe to Use Revolution Plus? β β | Safer Alternatives π₯ |
---|---|---|
Under 8 weeks / under 2.8 lbs | β No | Vet-approved flea combing, gentle flea baths, or Capstar (under vet guidance). |
8 weeks & over 2.8 lbs | β Yes | Revolution Plus can be used safely as directed. |
π‘ Pro Tip: For very young kittens, regular flea combing and environmental flea control (washing bedding, vacuuming carpets) are crucial before they reach the weight requirement for topical preventatives.
π¨οΈ Comment 11: “Does Revolution Plus repel fleas and ticks, or just kill them?”
β οΈ Revolution Plus does NOT repel fleas or ticksβit kills them after contact. This means fleas and ticks must bite your cat before they are eliminated.
π Revolution Plus: Killing vs. Repelling Fleas & Ticks
Function π¦ | Does Revolution Plus Do This? β β | How It Works βοΈ |
---|---|---|
Kills Fleas π | β Yes | Works within 6 hours to eliminate adult fleas. |
Kills Ticks π·οΈ | β Yes | Kills ticks within 24 hours of attachment. |
Repels Fleas & Ticks π« | β No | Does not prevent fleas or ticks from jumping onto the cat. |
π‘ Pro Tip: If you want repellent action against ticks, consider Seresto flea & tick collars, which actively repel parasites before they bite.
π¨οΈ Comment 12: “Can I use Revolution Plus alongside other flea and tick treatments?”
β οΈ Caution is needed when combining Revolution Plus with other flea and tick preventatives. Using multiple treatments can increase the risk of toxicity, particularly when combining products that contain similar active ingredients.
π Combining Revolution Plus with Other Parasite Preventatives: Safe or Risky?
Other Treatment π₯ | Safe to Use With Revolution Plus? β β | Vet Consultation Needed? π |
---|---|---|
Capstar (for heavy flea infestations) π | β Yes | Best for severe flea infestations. |
Seresto Flea Collar π·οΈ | β οΈ Use with caution | Can be too much insecticide exposure. |
Bravecto (oral or topical) π·οΈ | β No | Contains overlapping tick-killing ingredients. |
Advantage Multi π | β No | Contains similar active ingredients that could lead to overdose. |
π‘ Pro Tip: Always ask your vet before combining treatments, especially for cats with sensitive skin or pre-existing health conditions.
π¨οΈ Comment 13: “Does Revolution Plus expire?”
β Yes, Revolution Plus has an expiration date, typically found on the packaging. Using it after expiration may result in reduced effectiveness against fleas, ticks, and other parasites.
π Revolution Plus Expiration & Storage Guidelines
Factor π | What to Do β | Why It Matters β οΈ |
---|---|---|
Expiration Date π | Check before each use | Expired products may lose potency. |
Storage Temperature π‘οΈ | Keep below 86Β°F (30Β°C) | Heat exposure can degrade active ingredients. |
Direct Sunlight βοΈ | Store in a cool, dry place | UV light breaks down medication. |
π‘ Pro Tip: If you find expired doses, dispose of them safelyβdo not flush them down the toilet. Ask your vet or pharmacist about proper medication disposal methods.
π¨οΈ Comment 14: “Can Revolution Plus protect my cat from Lyme disease?”
β Revolution Plus helps prevent Lyme disease by killing black-legged ticks (Ixodes scapularis) within 24 hours of attachment. Since ticks need to remain attached for 36β48 hours to transmit Lyme disease, this rapid kill time significantly reduces the risk of infection.
π Revolution Plus & Lyme Disease Prevention
Factor π¦ | Does Revolution Plus Help? β β | Why It Matters β οΈ |
---|---|---|
Kills Lyme-carrying ticks? | β Yes | Eliminates black-legged ticks before transmission occurs. |
Prevents Lyme transmission? | β Yes, indirectly | Kills ticks before they can spread bacteria. |
Repels ticks before they attach? | β No | Does not prevent tick bites, just kills ticks after contact. |
Works against all tick species? | β Yes | Covers 4 major tick species in the U.S. |
π‘ Pro Tip: If you live in a Lyme-endemic area, check your cat regularly for ticksβespecially around the ears, neck, and paws. Even with Revolution Plus, removing ticks early is key to reducing Lyme disease risks.
π¨οΈ Comment 15: “Will Revolution Plus get rid of a current flea infestation in my home?”
β οΈ Revolution Plus kills fleas on your cat but does not treat your home environment. If your cat already has fleas, you will need to take additional steps to eliminate flea eggs and larvae in carpets, bedding, and furniture.
π How to Eliminate a Flea Infestation While Using Revolution Plus
Action Plan π‘ | Why Itβs Important β | How Often? β³ |
---|---|---|
Apply Revolution Plus monthly | Kills adult fleas on the cat & prevents new infestations | Every 30 days |
Vacuum carpets, furniture, & baseboards | Removes flea eggs and larvae hiding in fibers | Daily for 2β4 weeks |
Wash all bedding in hot water | Kills flea eggs, pupae, and larvae | Weekly |
Use a flea spray or powder for home | Treats areas fleas hide (rugs, cracks, furniture) | Every 2 weeks |
Treat all pets in the household | Prevents reinfestation from untreated animals | Apply flea preventatives to all pets |
π‘ Pro Tip: Fleas have a 4-stage life cycle, and Revolution Plus primarily targets adults. Using an integrated approachβmedication + environmental treatmentβis the fastest way to eliminate an infestation.
π¨οΈ Comment 16: “Can Revolution Plus cause my cat to act lethargic?”
β Yes, some cats may experience temporary lethargy after applying Revolution Plus, especially within the first 24 hours. This is usually mild and resolves on its own.
π Lethargy After Revolution Plus: Whatβs Normal vs. When to Worry
Lethargy Level π΄ | Is It Normal? β β | What to Do? π₯ |
---|---|---|
Mild sleepiness for a few hours | β Yes, normal | Let your cat rest, monitor for improvement. |
Decreased appetite for 24 hours | β Occasionally seen | Offer tasty food, monitor for normal eating. |
Still lethargic after 48 hours | β οΈ Monitor closely | Contact your vet if energy levels remain low. |
Extreme lethargy, unresponsive behavior | π¨ Not normal! | Seek immediate veterinary care. |
π‘ Pro Tip: If your cat is unusually tired after application, try applying Revolution Plus at night before bedtime to minimize daytime lethargy.
π¨οΈ Comment 17: “How does Revolution Plus compare to oral flea and tick preventatives like Credelio or Comfortis?”
β Revolution Plus is a topical treatment, while Credelio and Comfortis are oral medications. Each has its own advantages and drawbacks.
π Revolution Plus vs. Oral Flea & Tick Preventatives
Feature π¬ | Revolution Plus (Topical) β | Credelio/Comfortis (Oral) π |
---|---|---|
Kills Fleas π | β Yes, within 6 hours | β Yes, within 4 hours |
Kills Ticks π·οΈ | β Yes | β οΈ Credelio: Yes, Comfortis: No |
Prevents Heartworm β€οΈ | β Yes | β No |
Easy to Administer? π€ | β Yes, just apply to the skin | β οΈ Dependsβmust be swallowed |
Safe for cats who vomit easily? | β Yes | β Noβoral meds can cause nausea |
Waterproof? π¦ | β Yes, after 24 hours | β Yes |
π‘ Pro Tip: If your cat hates pills, Revolution Plus is a great alternative. If your cat is prone to licking off topical treatments, an oral medication like Credelio may be better.
π¨οΈ Comment 18: “Can Revolution Plus cause hair loss where it was applied?”
β Yes, but it is rare. Some cats may develop temporary hair thinning or mild skin irritation at the application site.
π Hair Loss & Skin Reactions After Revolution Plus: What to Expect
Reaction π©Ή | Common or Rare? π | What to Do? π₯ |
---|---|---|
Mild hair loss (small patch) | β οΈ Occasionally seen | Usually resolves in 1β2 weeks. |
Mild redness or dry skin | β Common | Avoid scratching or licking the area. |
Severe rash, swelling, or open sores | π¨ Very rare | Stop use and consult a vet. |
π‘ Pro Tip: If your cat has sensitive skin, apply Revolution Plus on a different part of the neck each month to prevent repeated irritation in one spot.
π¨οΈ Comment 19: “What happens if I accidentally apply too much Revolution Plus?”
β οΈ Overdosing on Revolution Plus is rare but can occur if a cat receives too high of a dose for its weight. Symptoms of overdose may include excessive drooling, tremors, or vomiting.
π Overdose Risk & What to Do
Scenario β οΈ | Risk Level ββ | Action Needed π₯ |
---|---|---|
Accidentally applied a second full dose | π¨ High risk | Contact your vet immediately. |
Applied slightly more than needed | β οΈ Moderate risk | Monitor for side effects. |
Cat licked the application site | β οΈ Mild risk | Expect drooling, possible stomach upset. |
Cat under 5 lbs given a large cat dose | π¨ Serious risk | Seek urgent veterinary care. |
π‘ Pro Tip: If you suspect an overdose, call your vet or the ASPCA Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) immediately.