Revolt vs Revolution for Dogs
Finding the right medication to protect your dogs from external and internal parasites can be a challenge. Revolution and Revolt are two popular options that many pet owners compare. This article will provide a detailed examination of both products, helping you make an informed decision for your furry friend.
Revolution for Dogs: A Proven Solution
Revolution, also known by its active ingredient name, Selamectin, is a topically applied parasiticide for dogs. It’s manufactured by Zoetis and has been a trusted solution for years.
The Power of Revolution
The power of Revolution lies in its broad spectrum effectiveness. It is designed to protect against heartworms, fleas, ticks, ear mites, and sarcoptic mange. Revolution also aids in controlling tick infestations, a feature not shared with all parasiticide products.
The Cost Factor
While Revolution offers an extensive range of protection, it is considered a premium product with a price tag to match. This can be a challenge for budget-conscious pet owners, with costs reaching upwards of $380 per year for monthly treatments for two dogs.
Revolt for Dogs: A More Affordable Alternative?
Revolt, a product from Vedco, has recently been gaining popularity. Why? Because it contains the same active ingredient, Selamectin, as Revolution.
A Comparable Shield
The concentration of Selamectin in Revolt is identical to Revolution, offering a comparable level of protection against heartworms, fleas, ear mites, and sarcoptic mange.
Revolt and Ticks
While Revolt is touted to be similar to Revolution, there’s a crucial difference to note: Revolt does not offer the same protection against ticks. This is significant for dog owners living in regions where tick-borne diseases are common.
The Price Advanta$ge
Revolt emerges as a more budget-friendly option, often costing less than half of what Revolution does. For those seeking a cost-effective solution, Revolt could be a compelling choice.
Revolt vs Revolution: A Comparison
In essence, Revolution and Revolt share many similarities due to their common active ingredient. Both provide reliable protection against many common parasites. However, the significant difference comes in their coverage against ticks and their price points.
Dosage and Application
Understanding the proper dosage and application is crucial when it comes to your dog’s parasiticide treatment, whether you’re considering Revolution or Revolt.
Revolution: Dose to Size
Revolution’s dosage depends on the size of your dog. The product is sold in various strengths to cater to different weight ranges. For instance, for a dog weighing less than 5lbs, a smaller dose is used compared to a dog weighing 40-85lbs.
The application is simple, requiring a spot application on the skin at the base of your dog’s neck. One single dose provides protection for up to a month.
Revolt: Similar Dosage Instructions
Revolt’s dosage instructions mirror those of Revolution. Based on your dog’s weight, you select the appropriate strength product. Like Revolution, you apply Revolt topically at the base of your dog’s neck, providing a month of protection.
However, with any treatment, the response can vary between dogs. If you notice any adverse reactions, consult your vet immediately.
Potential Side Effects: What You Should Know
All medications carry the potential for side effects, and parasiticides are no exception.
Revolution: Rare Side Effects
While side effects are relatively rare with Revolution, some dogs might experience temporary hair loss at the application site. Other potential but less common side effects include digestive upset, drooling, rapid breathing, coordination problems, and allergic reactions.
Revolt: Similar Risks Involved
Given that Revolt has the same active ingredient as Revolution, the potential side effects are similar. It’s vital to monitor your dog after application for any adverse reactions, such as skin irritation or behavioral changes.
The Verdict: Efficacy and User Experiences
Both Revolution and Revolt have gained a positive reputation among pet owners and vets.
Revolution: Tested and Trusted
Revolution is often applauded for its comprehensive parasite protection. It has been on the market for a long time, and many pet owners and vets testify to its effectiveness. Despite its higher cost, many find the broad-spectrum protection worth it.
Revolt: A Welcome Alternative
Since its introduction, Revolt has seen a positive response. Users have reported successful protection against heartworms, fleas, and other parasites, similar to their experiences with Revolution. Many appreciate the lower price point, although the lack of tick protection is a noted drawback for some users.
Frequently Asked Questions: Revolt and Revolution for Dogs
1. Can I use Revolt and Revolution interchangeably on my dogs?
Given that both products contain the same active ingredient, selamectin, they function similarly in protecting against a range of parasites. However, the key difference is that Revolution also provides protection against ticks, which Revolt does not. Therefore, if your dog is at risk of tick exposure, it might be more appropriate to stick with Revolution.
2. How often should I apply Revolt or Revolution?
Both Revolt and Revolution are designed to be applied monthly. Consistency is crucial for maintaining effective protection against parasites. Missing doses can expose your dog to potential health risks.
3. My dog has had a reaction to Revolution in the past. Is Revolt a safer option?
Revolt and Revolution both contain the same active ingredient, so if your dog had a reaction to Revolution, there’s a chance they could react similarly to Revolt. Always consult with your vet if your pet has had any adverse reactions to medications in the past.
4. Can I use Revolt or Revolution on pregnant or nursing dogs?
Revolution is deemed safe to use on pregnant and nursing dogs. Given Revolt’s identical active ingredient, it is assumed to be similarly safe, but always consult with a vet before administering any medication to pregnant or nursing animals.
5. What should I do if I forget to apply a monthly dose of Revolt or Revolution?
If you forget a dose, apply the medication as soon as you remember. However, do not double-dose to make up for the missed application. From there, continue the monthly schedule as usual. Regular, timely applications are essential for ensuring continued protection against parasites.
6. Are there any age restrictions for using Revolt or Revolution?
Both Revolution and Revolt can be used on puppies as young as 6 weeks old. However, consider the size and health status of your puppy, and consult with your vet before starting any new medication regimen.
7. Is there any risk of resistance developing in parasites with the use of Revolution or Revolt?
Resistance development is a concern with any parasiticide. However, there were no widespread reports of resistance to selamectin, the active ingredient in both Revolution and Revolt. Regular, appropriate use of these products as per the manufacturer’s instructions and your vet’s advice is crucial to maintain their effectiveness.
8. Can I bathe my dog or let them swim after applying Revolution or Revolt?
After applying either product, it’s best to avoid bathing your dog or letting them swim for at least 2 hours. Both Revolution and Revolt need time to be absorbed into your dog’s skin. Bathing or swimming too soon could potentially reduce their effectiveness.
9. Are there any breed-specific concerns when using Revolution or Revolt?
While there are no specific breed-related concerns associated with the use of Revolution or Revolt, some dogs may have individual sensitivities to medication. Always monitor your dog after applying a new product and report any adverse reactions to your vet.
10. Can Revolution or Revolt be used in conjunction with other medications?
Generally, Revolution and Revolt are safe to use with most other medications. However, you should always inform your vet about all the medications, supplements, and over-the-counter products your dog is taking to avoid any potential drug interactions.
11. What should I do if my dog accidentally ingests Revolution or Revolt?
If your dog accidentally ingests either product, contact your vet immediately. While these products are designed for topical use and ingestion could cause side effects like salivation or vomiting, they are generally not considered highly toxic when ingested. Still, it’s best to seek professional advice.
