Revolution Vs. Revolution Plus for Cats

When it comes to flea and parasite prevention in cats, pet owners are often caught in the crossroads of choosing between Revolution and Revolution Plus. These two popular products, manufactured by Zoetis, are well-regarded in the veterinary community for their efficacy and safety. But what sets them apart, and which one is the best fit for your feline friend?

Understanding the Basics

Before delving into the specifics, it’s essential to understand what these products are and their primary purposes. Both Revolution and Revolution Plus are topical solutions applied to the skin, designed to protect cats from various parasites.

Revolution (Selamectin)

• Protects against fleas, heartworms, ear mites, sarcoptic mange, and certain types of ticks and intestinal parasites.
• Active Ingredient: Selamectin

Revolution Plus (Selamectin and Sarolaner)

• Offers the same protection as Revolution, but with an added ingredient to extend its efficacy against additional parasites.
• Active Ingredients: Selamectin and Sarolaner

Comparative Analysis: Revolution Vs. Revolution Plus

To provide a clear picture, let’s break down the differences and similarities in a tabular format.

Aspect	Revolution	Revolution Plus	Key Takeaway
Flea Prevention	✔	✔	Both products effectively prevent and treat flea infestations.
Heartworm Prevention	✔	✔	Both products provide essential protection against heartworm disease.
Tick Prevention	Limited	✔	Revolution Plus offers broader protection against ticks, thanks to the added ingredient, Sarolaner.
Ear Mites	✔	✔	Both products treat and control ear mite infestations.
Intestinal Parasites	✔	✔	Both products provide protection against certain types of intestinal parasites.
Sarcoptic Mange	✔	✔	Both products are effective in treating sarcoptic mange.
Safety for Kittens	8 weeks and older	8 weeks and older	Both products are safe for kittens aged 8 weeks and older.
Price	Generally lower	Generally higher	Revolution Plus tends to be more expensive due to its extended protection against more parasite types.

Why Choose Revolution?

Revolution might be a preferable choice for cats that are strictly indoor and have a minimal risk of tick exposure. It offers comprehensive protection at a slightly lower cost, making it a budget-friendly option without compromising on essential parasite prevention.

Why Opt for Revolution Plus?

For cats that have access to the outdoors or live in areas with a high tick population, Revolution Plus is the go-to option. Its added efficacy against a broader range of ticks ensures that your cat is well-protected, even in tick-prone environments.

Safety and Side Effects

Both Revolution and Revolution Plus have excellent safety profiles when used according to the product label. Side effects are rare but can include temporary hair loss at the application site, skin redness, or gastrointestinal upset. Always consult with your veterinarian before starting any parasite prevention program, especially if your cat has a history of sensitivity to medications.

FAQs: Revolution vs. Revolution Plus for Cats

1. Can Revolution or Revolution Plus Cause Side Effects in My Cat?

While both medications have an excellent safety profile, there are rare cases where side effects might occur. These can include skin irritation at the application site, temporary hair loss, or digestive upset. It’s crucial to monitor your cat after application and report any adverse reactions to your veterinarian.

2. How Quickly Do Revolution and Revolution Plus Start Working?

Once applied, Revolution starts killing fleas within 36 hours, while Revolution Plus begins working in just 6 hours. For tick prevention, Revolution Plus is the preferred option as it starts neutralizing ticks within 24 hours.

3. Can I Use Revolution or Revolution Plus on My Pregnant or Lactating Cat?

Yes, both Revolution and Revolution Plus are safe to use on pregnant and lactating cats. However, always consult with your veterinarian before starting any medication to ensure it’s the right choice for your cat’s particular health status.

4. Are There Any Contradictions or Situations Where I Should Avoid Using These Products?

Avoid using these products on sick, debilitated, or underweight cats without consulting a veterinarian. Additionally, since both products are for external use only, ensure that your cat does not ingest the medication.

5. How Do I Apply Revolution or Revolution Plus?

Part your cat’s fur at the base of the neck, ensuring the skin is visible. Place the tip of the tube on the skin and squeeze the tube, emptying its contents in one spot. Avoid contact with the treated area until it is dry.

6. Is There a Difference in Application Frequency Between Revolution and Revolution Plus?

No, both products are applied monthly. Consistent application is key to ensuring continuous protection against parasites.

7. Can I Bathe My Cat After Applying Revolution or Revolution Plus?

It’s recommended to wait at least two hours after application before bathing your cat or allowing them to get wet. This ensures the medication has time to distribute properly across the skin.

8. What Parasites Does Revolution Plus Protect Against That Revolution Does Not?

Revolution Plus provides additional protection against three types of ticks: black-legged (deer) ticks, Gulf Coast ticks, and American dog ticks, making it a more comprehensive option for tick prevention.

9. Can I Switch Between Revolution and Revolution Plus?

Yes, you can switch between the two products. However, consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to ensure a seamless transition and continued protection.

10. Are Revolution and Revolution Plus Safe for Kittens?

Both products are safe for kittens aged 8 weeks and older. Ensuring early protection helps to safeguard your young cat from parasites as they explore their environment.

11. How Do Environmental Factors Influence the Choice Between Revolution and Revolution Plus?

The geographical location and environment play pivotal roles in determining the risk of parasite infestations. Areas with warmer climates and higher humidity levels may have a higher prevalence of fleas and ticks year-round, necessitating a more comprehensive solution like Revolution Plus. Alternatively, in regions with less risk, Revolution might suffice. Evaluate your local parasite risks in consultation with your veterinarian to choose the most appropriate protection.

12. How Does My Cat’s Lifestyle Affect Which Product I Should Choose?

Indoor cats might have lower exposure to ticks, potentially making Revolution an adequate choice. However, if your cat spends significant time outdoors, especially in wooded or grassy areas, Revolution Plus offers the added tick protection that would be beneficial. Additionally, households with multiple pets, including dogs that go outdoors, might consider Revolution Plus to mitigate the risk of ticks being brought inside.

13. Are There Any Differences in Storage or Handling Between the Two Products?

Both Revolution and Revolution Plus should be stored at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children and pets. They do not require refrigeration. However, it’s vital to check the expiration date before application, as the efficacy cannot be guaranteed past this point.

14. Can I Use Other Flea and Tick Preventatives Alongside Revolution or Revolution Plus?

Combining flea and tick preventatives is generally not recommended unless advised by a veterinarian. Using multiple products can increase the risk of an adverse reaction. If you believe your current preventative isn’t working effectively, consult your veterinarian to discuss alternatives or adjustments to the treatment plan.

15. What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?

If a dose is missed, apply Revolution or Revolution Plus as soon as you remember. Resume the monthly application schedule from this new date. Do not double up on doses to compensate for the missed application.

16. How Do I Dispose of Unused or Expired Product?

Unused or expired Revolution or Revolution Plus should be disposed of safely. Do not pour them down the drain or toilet, and do not throw them away in the regular trash without securing them in a sealed bag. Contact your local waste disposal facility or veterinarian’s office to inquire about safe disposal methods.

17. How Do I Choose Between Revolution and Revolution Plus for a Multi-Cat Household?

In a multi-cat household, consistency in parasite protection is key to prevent cross-infestation. Evaluate the risk level for each cat and choose a product that provides adequate protection for the highest-risk cat. This approach ensures that all cats in the household receive the necessary level of protection.

18. Can Revolution or Revolution Plus Help in Treating an Existing Parasite Infestation?

While both products are highly effective in preventing parasite infestations, if your cat is currently infested, a visit to the veterinarian is necessary to establish an appropriate treatment plan. They might recommend an initial treatment to address the current infestation before starting a preventative regime.

19. What Are the Active Ingredients in Revolution and Revolution Plus, and How Do They Work?

Revolution contains selamectin, which works by interfering with the nervous system of parasites, ultimately leading to their death. Revolution Plus contains selamectin and sarolaner. Sarolaner, an additional insecticide and acaricide, provides enhanced efficacy against ticks and additional arthropod parasites. Together, they provide broad-spectrum protection against a variety of parasites.

20. How Do I Monitor the Efficacy of Revolution or Revolution Plus?

Regular check-ups with your veterinarian, alongside vigilant monitoring at home, are key. Keep an eye out for any signs of flea or tick infestations, such as excessive scratching, visible fleas or ticks, or flea dirt in your cat’s fur. If you notice any of these signs, contact your veterinarian promptly to assess the situation and adjust your parasite prevention plan if necessary.