🐾 Revolution Plus vs. Advocate: Which is Better for Your Pet’s Protection?

When it comes to choosing the best flea, tick, and parasite prevention for your pet, it’s easy to get overwhelmed with options. Revolution Plus and Advocate are two of the most popular treatments on the market, but how do they compare?

Key Takeaways: Quick Answers About Revolution Plus and Advocate

  • What do Revolution Plus and Advocate treat? 🦟 Revolution Plus targetsĀ fleas, ticks, mites, heartworms, and intestinal worms, while Advocate coversĀ fleas, heartworms, and intestinal wormsĀ but not ticks.
  • Which one covers more parasites?Ā āœ…Ā Revolution PlusĀ has broader coverage, includingĀ ticks.
  • Which is safer for my pet? 🩺 Both areĀ generally safe, but Revolution Plus is newer and has undergone extensive modern safety testing.
  • How are they administered?Ā šŸ’§ Both areĀ topical treatmentsĀ applied monthly to your pet’s skin.
  • Which product is better for multi-pet households? 🐾 Advocate may be more economical for homes with multiple pets, but Revolution Plus offers wider protection, especially if ticks are a concern.

What Do Revolution Plus and Advocate Treat? 🦟 A Comprehensive Comparison

When comparing Revolution Plus and Advocate, it’s important to know which parasites each product targets:

  • Revolution PlusĀ covers a broad range of external and internal parasites, including:
    • FleasĀ (kills adult fleas and prevents eggs from hatching)
    • TicksĀ (kills black-legged, American dog, and Gulf Coast ticks)
    • Ear mites
    • Heartworm prevention
    • Intestinal wormsĀ (roundworms, hookworms)
  • AdvocateĀ (also known asĀ Advantage MultiĀ in some regions) offers protection against:
    • Fleas
    • Heartworms
    • Ear mites
    • Intestinal wormsĀ (roundworms, hookworms, whipworms)

The major difference here is that Advocate does not protect against ticks, making Revolution Plus the better option if you live in a tick-prone area. Ticks are responsible for spreading diseases like Lyme disease, so comprehensive protection may be essential depending on your pet’s lifestyle and environment.

FeatureRevolution PlusAdvocatešŸ’” Tip
Flea controlYes, kills adults and eggsYes, kills fleasBoth are effective against fleas, but Revolution Plus also kills flea eggs 🐜
Tick controlYesNoChoose Revolution Plus if ticks are a concern 🦠
Heartworm preventionYesYesBoth provide heartworm protection šŸ’§
Intestinal worm protectionYesYesBoth treat common intestinal worms šŸ›
Ear mite treatmentYesYesEqually effective against ear mites šŸ‘‚

Which Product Covers More Parasites? āœ… Revolution Plus for Broader Coverage

In terms of overall parasite coverage, Revolution Plus offers more comprehensive protection than Advocate. While both products are effective against fleas, heartworms, and intestinal worms, Revolution Plus stands out by also protecting your pet from ticks, which Advocate does not cover.

Ticks can be particularly dangerous for pets, as they transmit diseases like Lyme diseaseehrlichiosis, and anaplasmosis. If you live in an area with a high tick population or your pet spends time outdoors, Revolution Plus would likely be the better choice for more complete protection.

Parasite CoverageRevolution PlusAdvocatešŸ’” Tip
Broader parasite rangeRevolution Plus covers more, including ticksAdvocate lacks tick protectionOpt for Revolution Plus in tick-heavy areas 🌲
Heartworm and flea protectionBoth cover heartworms and fleasBoth effective for these pestsBoth are solid choices for basic flea and heartworm control šŸ’§

Which is Safer for My Pet? 🩺 Evaluating Safety and Side Effects

Both Revolution Plus and Advocate are considered safe for most pets when used as directed, but as with any medication, there are potential side effects to be aware of:

  • Revolution Plus: Since it’s a newer product (introduced in 2018), it has undergoneĀ modern safety testingĀ and is approved for use in cats and dogs. The most common side effects are mild, including temporary hair loss or redness at the application site. Rarely, some pets may experience vomiting or lethargy.
  • Advocate: Advocate has been around for longer and is widely regarded as safe. The most common side effects include similar reactions likeĀ skin irritationĀ at the application site or mild digestive upset. It’s important to note that Advocate isĀ toxic to certain dog breedsĀ (such as collies) due to itsĀ ivermectinĀ component, so always check with your vet if your dog belongs to a sensitive breed.

Both products are generally safe for pets, but Revolution Plus may have a slight edge due to its updated formulation and broader safety studies.

šŸ’” Tip: Always consult your veterinarian before starting any new medication to ensure it’s the right fit for your pet’s health and breed.

SafetyRevolution PlusAdvocatešŸ’” Tip
Side effectsMild irritation, vomiting in rare casesMild irritation, not for ivermectin-sensitive breedsConsult your vet if your pet has sensitivities 🩺
Modern formulationYes, newer testingLong-standing safety recordBoth are safe, but Revolution Plus has newer safety research āœ…

How Are They Administered? šŸ’§ Simple Topical Treatments

Both Revolution Plus and Advocate are topical treatments, applied to your pet’s skin once a month. The application is relatively simple: you part your pet’s fur at the base of the neck and apply the solution directly to the skin. It’s important to ensure that the medication is absorbed and not rubbed off, so try to keep your pet from licking or grooming the area immediately after application.

The treatments are waterproof after a few hours, making them convenient for pets who love to swim or get bathed frequently.

šŸ’” Tip: Mark your calendar each month to ensure you don’t miss a dose—consistent monthly application is crucial for maximum protection.

AdministrationRevolution PlusAdvocatešŸ’” Tip
TypeTopical once a monthTopical once a monthApply to dry skin and avoid baths for 48 hours for best results 🧓
Ease of useSimple, once-a-month applicationSame, applied monthlyKeep pets from licking the area immediately after application 🚫

Which Product is Better for Multi-Pet Households? 🐾 Advocate for Budget, Revolution Plus for Coverage

If you’re managing multiple pets in your household, cost and convenience become important factors. Advocate is often more economical, especially if you’re focusing primarily on flea and heartworm prevention. Its lower price point makes it a practical choice for large families.

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However, if your pets are exposed to ticks or have other specific needs (such as cats prone to mites), Revolution Plus may be worth the extra investment due to its wider coverage.

Household SizeRevolution PlusAdvocatešŸ’” Tip
Best for large familiesMore costly for multiple petsMore affordable for multiple petsChoose Advocate for larger pet households if ticks aren’t a concern šŸ’°
Comprehensive coverageRevolution Plus offers more protectionAdvocate is budget-friendly but lacks tick controlOpt for Revolution Plus if broader coverage is needed šŸ”

Final Thoughts: Revolution Plus vs. Advocate 🐾 Which is Right for Your Pet?

Ultimately, both Revolution Plus and Advocate are highly effective treatments, but they serve different needs. If you’re looking for broader protection that includes ticks as well as fleas, heartworms, and intestinal worms, Revolution Plus is the clear winner. However, if you’re primarily concerned with flea and heartworm prevention and need a cost-effective solution for a multi-pet household, Advocate might be a better fit.

Quick Recap: Revolution Plus vs. Advocate

  • What do they treat? 🦟 Revolution Plus covers more, includingĀ ticks, while Advocate lacks tick protection.
  • Which is safer? 🩺 Both are generally safe, but Revolution Plus is a newer formulation with updated safety testing.
  • How are they applied?Ā šŸ’§ Both are simpleĀ topical treatmentsĀ applied once a month.
  • Which is better for multi-pet households? 🐾 AdvocateĀ may be more cost-effective, but Revolution Plus offersĀ broader protection.

Choosing the right parasite prevention is crucial for your pet’s health, so consider your pet’s lifestyle, environment, and specific needs when making your decision.


Comment 1: ā€œCan Revolution Plus and Advocate be used on puppies and kittens?ā€

Both Revolution Plus and Advocate are formulated for use on younger pets, but there are specific age and weight requirements you must adhere to:

  • Revolution PlusĀ can be used on kittens as young asĀ 8 weeksĀ old and with a minimum weight ofĀ 2.8 pounds (1.25 kg). This makes it a great option for early parasite prevention in kittens, especially since it covers a wide range of parasites, including ticks, fleas, and heartworms.
  • AdvocateĀ can be used on puppies and kittens starting atĀ 7 weeksĀ old and weighing at leastĀ 2 pounds (0.9 kg). It offers comprehensive flea and heartworm prevention at an early stage but lacks tick coverage, which may be something to consider depending on your pet’s exposure to the outdoors.

For both products, it’s essential to follow the dosage instructions carefully based on your pet’s weight to avoid any adverse reactions.

šŸ’” Tip: Always consult with your vet before starting a new treatment for young pets, as they may need a specific product tailored to their growth and needs. Puppies and kittens are more sensitive, so erring on the side of caution is always wise.


Comment 2: ā€œCan I use Revolution Plus or Advocate on pregnant or lactating pets?ā€

Using parasite prevention products on pregnant or lactating pets requires extra caution. Here’s how Revolution Plus and Advocate compare:

  • Revolution PlusĀ has beenĀ approved for use in lactating, pregnant, and breeding cats, making it a reliable choice for cat owners looking to protect their pregnant or nursing pets from parasites. However, it’s always best to discuss your options with your vet before applying any medication to ensure it’s the right fit for your pet’s specific situation.
  • AdvocateĀ is alsoĀ approved for use in pregnant, lactating, and breeding pets. It’s widely used in pregnant and nursing dogs and cats without significant risks when applied correctly.

Both treatments are considered safe, but it’s always a good idea to consult with your vet beforehand, especially since pregnancy and nursing can make pets more sensitive to certain medications.

šŸ’” Tip: If you’re uncertain, schedule a vet visit to review your pet’s overall health before applying a treatment. This will give you peace of mind knowing that your pet and their babies are safe from parasites.


Comment 3: ā€œWhat if my pet is already infested with fleas? Which product works faster?ā€

Both Revolution Plus and Advocate work to kill fleas quickly, but there are slight differences in how they handle an active infestation:

  • Revolution PlusĀ starts killingĀ adult fleas within hoursĀ after application, and it continues to break the flea life cycle by preventing flea eggs from hatching. This is especially helpful if you’re dealing with a large infestation, as it reduces future generations of fleas from taking over.
  • AdvocateĀ is also highly effective against fleas and starts working withinĀ 24 hours. It not only kills adult fleas but alsoĀ prevents flea larvaeĀ from maturing, which helps control infestations over time.

For a heavy flea infestation, both products work fast, but Revolution Plus might offer a slightly faster start in killing adult fleas, making it a better option if you’re dealing with an immediate problem.

šŸ’” Tip: Remember that dealing with fleas isn’t just about treating your pet. Clean and treat your pet’s environment—such as bedding, furniture, and carpets—to prevent re-infestation.


Comment 4: ā€œCan I use Revolution Plus or Advocate along with other medications?ā€

Whether you can combine Revolution Plus or Advocate with other medications depends on the specific treatments your pet is receiving. Both products have been tested for safety when used with other common pet medications, but it’s always best to consult with your veterinarian before combining treatments.

  • Revolution PlusĀ is generally safe to use alongsideĀ antibiotics,Ā steroids,Ā vaccines, and other common medications. However, if your pet is on treatments for seizures, heart conditions, or other serious ailments, it’s critical to get a vet’s approval first to avoid any drug interactions.
  • AdvocateĀ also has a good safety record when used in conjunction with other medications. However, you should avoid using any additional flea or heartworm treatments while your pet is on Advocate, as this could lead to an overdose of active ingredients likeĀ imidaclopridĀ orĀ moxidectin.
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šŸ’” Tip: Always provide your vet with a complete list of your pet’s current medications, supplements, and any over-the-counter treatments they may be using. This will help them determine if Revolution Plus or Advocate is safe to add to your pet’s regimen.


Comment 5: ā€œWhich product is better for indoor pets?ā€

If your pet lives primarily indoors, you might not think parasite protection is necessary, but even indoor pets are at risk of contracting fleas, worms, or mites through contact with humans or other animals. Here’s how Revolution Plus and Advocate compare for indoor pets:

  • Revolution PlusĀ offers the advantage of covering aĀ broader spectrum of parasites, including ticks and mites, which can still pose a threat to indoor cats or dogs if these pests enter your home. It’s ideal for pets that might have occasional outdoor exposure or homes in areas where ticks are common, even for indoor pets.
  • AdvocateĀ is sufficient for pets that are truly indoors-only, as it provides excellent protection againstĀ fleas, heartworms, and intestinal worms. If ticks aren’t a concern, Advocate might be the simpler, more cost-effective choice for keeping indoor pets protected from fleas and worms.

Both products are effective, but Revolution Plus offers a little more peace of mind for pets that occasionally venture outside or are in areas where tick exposure is still possible indoors.

šŸ’” Tip: Even indoor pets need year-round parasite protection! Fleas and worms can still find their way inside, so regular treatment is essential.


Comment 6: ā€œCan I switch between Revolution Plus and Advocate, or should I stick to one?ā€

Switching between Revolution Plus and Advocate is possible, but it’s important to make the transition carefully and with your vet’s guidance. Both treatments have different active ingredients and target different parasites, so making the switch too quickly could overlap treatments or leave gaps in protection.

If you’re planning to switch from one product to the other, ensure that your pet’s next dose aligns with their regular monthly schedule. This prevents any lapse in protection, which could leave your pet vulnerable to parasites. A vet can help determine the safest way to transition between products based on your pet’s health, weight, and exposure to parasites.

šŸ’” Tip: If you’ve decided to switch products, talk to your vet about the right timing and any potential risks to ensure your pet stays fully protected throughout the change.


Comment 7: ā€œWhat are the environmental impacts of using Revolution Plus or Advocate?ā€

Both Revolution Plus and Advocate contain active ingredients that can impact the environment, especially if not disposed of properly:

  • Revolution PlusĀ containsĀ selamectin and sarolaner, which are potent parasiticides that can be harmful toĀ aquatic life. Therefore, it’s important to avoid contact with water bodies after applying the product and to properly dispose of any unused or expired treatments according to local regulations.
  • AdvocateĀ containsĀ imidacloprid and moxidectin, which are also toxic to aquatic environments. You should ensure that pets treated with Advocate don’t swim in or contaminate bodies of water soon after application, as this can negatively affect the local ecosystem.

šŸ’” Tip: Always follow the disposal instructions on the packaging. Avoid washing treated animals in streams, rivers, or lakes for at least 48 hours after applying either product to minimize environmental impact.


Comment 8: ā€œIs one product better for senior pets?ā€

When it comes to senior pets, both Revolution Plus and Advocate are safe, but your choice might depend on your pet’s specific health concerns:

  • Revolution PlusĀ is often preferred for senior pets due to itsĀ broad parasite coverage, particularly if your pet is prone to mite or tick infestations, which can be more dangerous for older animals with compromised immune systems.
  • AdvocateĀ is a good choice for senior pets who may not need tick protection but still requireĀ flea, heartworm, and intestinal worm prevention. It’s known for its gentle formula, making it a solid option for elderly pets who may be more sensitive to certain treatments.

For older pets with underlying health issues, it’s always crucial to consult with your vet, who can assess which product would be best based on your pet’s overall condition.

šŸ’” Tip: Make sure your senior pet is regularly monitored by a vet, as their needs can change over time. This will help ensure they are receiving the most suitable and effective parasite protection.


Comment 9: ā€œCan Revolution Plus or Advocate prevent reinfestation if my pet already has fleas?ā€

Both Revolution Plus and Advocate can help in the prevention of reinfestation, but they work in slightly different ways to achieve this:

  • Revolution PlusĀ not only killsĀ adult fleasĀ but also targetsĀ flea eggs and larvae, effectively breaking the flea life cycle. This makes it a powerful tool for both eliminating an active infestation and preventing future ones. By inhibiting the development of new fleas, Revolution Plus provides long-lasting protection and reduces the risk of reinfestation over time.
  • AdvocateĀ is equally effective at killingĀ adult fleasĀ andĀ flea larvae, helping to halt the development of fleas in the environment. While it doesn’t specifically target flea eggs, it works to disrupt the flea life cycle, preventing larvae from maturing into adults, which can reinfest your pet or home.

While both products are highly effective at preventing flea reinfestation, Revolution Plus has the edge because it offers a more comprehensive approach by addressing flea eggs as well as larvae and adults. This ensures that the entire flea cycle is broken, making it less likely for fleas to re-establish on your pet.

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šŸ’” Tip: To fully prevent reinfestation, it’s also important to treat your home by washing bedding, vacuuming carpets, and using environmental flea control products.


Comment 10: ā€œWhat should I do if I miss a dose of Revolution Plus or Advocate?ā€

Missing a dose of Revolution Plus or Advocate can leave your pet vulnerable to parasites, but the good news is that both treatments are designed to allow for flexibility:

  • If you miss a dose ofĀ Revolution Plus, administer it as soon as you remember, then continue with your regular dosing schedule, ensuring there’s at leastĀ 30 daysĀ between applications. Revolution Plus is effective forĀ 30 days, so a missed dose won’t immediately leave your pet unprotected, but it’s important to apply the next dose as soon as possible to maintain continuous protection.
  • Similarly, if you miss a dose ofĀ Advocate, apply it as soon as you can, and continue with the monthly schedule from there. Like Revolution Plus, Advocate protects your pet for a month, so missing a few days won’t drastically affect your pet’s protection, but applying the treatment promptly is key to avoiding any gaps.

In both cases, if you’ve missed more than a week, you should consult your vet to ensure your pet hasn’t been exposed to any parasites in the meantime. They may recommend additional parasite tests or preventive measures depending on your pet’s environment.

šŸ’” Tip: To avoid missed doses in the future, set a reminder on your phone or mark your calendar with the application dates. Consistency is critical for optimal parasite prevention.


Comment 11: ā€œIs it safe to pet my dog or cat right after applying Revolution Plus or Advocate?ā€

After applying Revolution Plus or Advocate, it’s best to avoid touching the area where the medication was applied for at least a few hours. Here’s why:

  • Revolution PlusĀ absorbs into the skin withinĀ 2 hours, and after that, it’s considered safe to touch your pet. However, you should wait a bit longer—aroundĀ 24 hours—before bathing or allowing your pet to swim to ensure the medication is fully effective.
  • AdvocateĀ also absorbs into your pet’s skin relatively quickly, but it’s recommended toĀ avoid direct contactĀ with the application site for at leastĀ 1-2 hours. Like Revolution Plus, you should waitĀ 24-48 hoursĀ before bathing or swimming to prevent the product from washing off.

For both treatments, it’s important to keep your pet away from other animals or children during this time, as licking or touching the treatment area before it dries can reduce its effectiveness or cause minor irritation.

šŸ’” Tip: Apply the treatment in the evening or right before bedtime to minimize contact with the application site while the medication absorbs. This ensures your pet—and everyone else—stays safe and comfortable.


Comment 12: ā€œWhich product works better for pets with sensitive skin?ā€

If your pet has sensitive skin, choosing the right parasite treatment is essential to avoid irritation:

  • Revolution PlusĀ is formulated to beĀ gentle on the skinĀ and is often well-tolerated by pets with sensitivities. The most common side effect is mild irritation at the application site, but this usually resolves quickly. Revolution Plus’s newer formulation means it’s designed withĀ modern safety standardsĀ in mind, which can be beneficial for pets prone to skin reactions.
  • AdvocateĀ is also safe for most pets, but as it containsĀ imidacloprid, it may cause slight irritation in pets with very sensitive skin. Some pets may experience temporary redness or hair loss at the application site, though these side effects are generally rare.

Both products are considered safe for sensitive pets, but Revolution Plus may have a slight advantage due to its modern, gentle formulation. If your pet has a history of skin issues, consult your vet before applying either product to ensure it’s the best choice for them.

šŸ’” Tip: If your pet has a mild reaction, try applying the treatment to a different area, such as a less sensitive part of the neck. This can sometimes reduce irritation at the application site.


Comment 13: ā€œDo Revolution Plus and Advocate protect against heartworm year-round?ā€

Yes, both Revolution Plus and Advocate provide year-round heartworm protection, but it’s crucial that you administer the treatment consistently every month to ensure full coverage:

  • Revolution PlusĀ containsĀ selamectin, which effectively prevents heartworms by killing the larvae before they can mature into adult heartworms. By administering Revolution Plus every 30 days, you ensure that your pet is continuously protected from heartworm infections.
  • AdvocateĀ usesĀ moxidectinĀ to prevent heartworms, working similarly to Revolution Plus in that it kills heartworm larvae before they develop. Monthly applications are necessary to maintain this protection throughout the year.

Heartworms are transmitted by mosquitoes, so even in colder months, it’s essential to keep up with regular dosing to prevent heartworm infection. Missing even one dose can leave your pet exposed, especially in areas where mosquitoes are prevalent year-round.

šŸ’” Tip: Year-round heartworm prevention is vital, even if you live in an area with a seasonal mosquito population. Parasites can survive in various conditions, so monthly protection is a must to safeguard your pet.


Comment 14: ā€œCan I bathe my pet after applying Revolution Plus or Advocate?ā€

Bathing your pet after applying Revolution Plus or Advocate requires a bit of timing to ensure the treatments remain effective:

  • After applyingĀ Revolution Plus, it’s recommended to wait at leastĀ 24 hoursĀ before giving your pet a bath. This allows the product to fully absorb into the skin and distribute throughout the body. Revolution Plus isĀ waterproofĀ after this initial period, so your pet can swim, bathe, or get wet without affecting the medication’s efficacy.
  • WithĀ Advocate, it’s also best to waitĀ 48 hoursĀ before bathing your pet to ensure the product has been completely absorbed. Once this time has passed, Advocate will remain effective even if your pet is bathed or exposed to water.

For both products, make sure your pet is dry when you apply the medication, and avoid excessive grooming or washing for the first couple of days to get the full benefit of the treatment.

šŸ’” Tip: Plan your pet’s bathing schedule around their monthly treatment. Bathing them the day before applying the medication is a great way to ensure the treatment is applied to clean, dry skin for maximum absorption.


Comment 15: ā€œDo Revolution Plus or Advocate cover tick-borne diseases?ā€

When it comes to tick-borne diseasesRevolution Plus offers a significant advantage over Advocate:

  • Revolution PlusĀ not only killsĀ ticksĀ but also helps preventĀ tick-borne diseasesĀ likeĀ Lyme disease,Ā anaplasmosis, andĀ ehrlichiosisĀ by effectively killing ticks before they can transmit these diseases. This makes it a superior choice for pets in areas where ticks are prevalent.
  • Advocate, on the other hand, does not offerĀ tick protection, so it does not prevent tick-borne diseases. If ticks are a concern, you’ll need to use an additional tick prevention product alongside Advocate or switch to Revolution Plus for full coverage.

If your pet frequently spends time outdoors in tick-heavy environments, Revolution Plus is the better option for comprehensive protection against both ticks and the diseases they can carry.

šŸ’” Tip: If you live in an area with a high tick population, check your pet regularly for ticks, even if they’re on a preventive treatment. Early removal of ticks is key to avoiding disease transmission.

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