Flea and tick infestations are a common concern for pet owners, especially in the United States, where these parasites are present year-round in various climates. In addition to fleas and ticks, pets can also be exposed to other parasites like heartworms, ear mites, and even some intestinal worms. One solution that has garnered attention for its effectiveness in managing multiple types of parasitic infestations in cats is Revolution Plus for cats.

This blog post will take an in-depth look at Revolution Plus for cats, including its uses, how it works, safety considerations, and potential side effects. By providing factual, unbiased information, pet owners can make well-informed decisions regarding the health and well-being of their feline companions.

What Is Revolution Plus for Cats?

Revolution Plus for cats is a topical medication used to prevent and treat parasitic infestations in cats. This product is designed to target a wide range of parasites, including fleas, ticks, ear mites, and certain types of intestinal worms. Unlike many flea and tick treatments, Revolution Plus is a single-dose monthly treatment, making it a convenient and effective way to provide comprehensive parasite control for cats.

Revolution Plus is typically available through a veterinarian, as it is a prescription-only product in the United States. The product comes in a small pipette that is applied to the back of the cat’s neck, where it is absorbed into the bloodstream. The active ingredients in Revolution Plus work systemically, meaning they travel through the cat's body to kill and repel parasites.

How Does Revolution Plus for Cats Work?

The active ingredients in Revolution Plus for cats include selamectin and sarolaner, both of which target different types of parasites:

• Selamectin: This ingredient works by disrupting the nervous systems of various parasites, including fleas, heartworms, and ear mites. It prevents the larvae from maturing and stops the parasites from reproducing, providing long-term protection.

• Sarolaner: This ingredient is part of the isoxazoline class, which is known for its ability to target the nervous system of fleas and ticks. Sarolaner causes paralysis and death in fleas and ticks, preventing them from infesting your cat.

By combining these two active ingredients, Revolution Plus offers broad-spectrum protection against a range of common parasites. Fleas and ticks are eliminated quickly after the product is applied, and the long-lasting effects ensure that your cat remains protected for a full month.

Parasites Treated by Revolution Plus for Cats

Revolution Plus for cats provides treatment and prevention for the following parasites:

• Fleas (Ctenocephalides felis): One of the most common external parasites, fleas cause itching, skin irritation, and can even lead to flea allergy dermatitis in cats. Revolution Plus kills adult fleas and prevents the eggs from hatching, breaking the flea life cycle.

• Ticks (Ixodes scapularis, Dermacentor variabilis, Rhipicephalus sanguineus): Ticks can transmit serious diseases like Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Revolution Plus kills ticks quickly and helps reduce the risk of tick-borne diseases.

• Ear Mites (Otodectes cynotis): Ear mites are highly contagious and can cause intense itching and inflammation in the ears. Revolution Plus treats and eliminates ear mites in a single dose.

• Heartworms (Dirofilaria immitis): While heartworm disease is primarily associated with dogs, it can also affect cats. Revolution Plus prevents heartworm infections by killing the larvae that are transmitted by mosquitoes.

• Intestinal Worms (Roundworms and Hookworms): These internal parasites can cause gastrointestinal upset, including vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss. Revolution Plus helps prevent these infestations by killing the larvae.

With its ability to target a wide range of parasites, Revolution Plus is often recommended for cats that are at risk for multiple types of infestations, especially in regions where parasite exposure is high.

How to Apply Revolution Plus for Cats

Revolution Plus is applied topically, directly to the skin on the back of the cat’s neck, between the shoulder blades. The application process is straightforward:

1. Open the Pipette: Hold the pipette upright and break off the tip.

2. Apply to the Skin: Part the fur at the base of the cat’s neck, and apply the entire contents of the pipette directly to the skin, avoiding any contact with the fur.

3. Allow to Dry: Let the treated area dry completely before allowing your cat to groom or bathe. This ensures the medication is absorbed into the skin.

It’s important to apply the product only to cats that are at least 8 weeks old and weigh at least 2.8 pounds. Pet owners should follow the dosage guidelines based on the cat’s weight to ensure the treatment’s effectiveness.

Potential Side Effects

While Revolution Plus for cats is generally considered safe when used as directed, some cats may experience mild side effects. Common side effects include:

• Skin Irritation: Some cats may experience redness, hair loss, or a slight rash at the site of application.

• Gastrointestinal Upset: Mild vomiting or diarrhea can occur, though these side effects are rare and usually resolve quickly.

• Lethargy or Decreased Appetite: Some cats may experience temporary lethargy or reduced appetite after the treatment, but these symptoms typically subside within a day or two.

In very rare cases, more severe reactions such as difficulty breathing, seizures, or excessive drooling may occur. If any of these serious side effects are noticed, pet owners should immediately contact a veterinarian for advice.

It’s important to remember that if your cat has a known allergy to any of the ingredients in Revolution Plus, the product should not be used. Always consult a veterinarian before starting a new treatment regimen, especially if your cat has pre-existing health conditions.

Safety Considerations and Precautions

When using Revolution Plus for cats, there are a few important safety considerations to keep in mind:

• Avoid Contact with Other Animals: After applying Revolution Plus, cats should not be allowed to interact with other animals or humans until the treatment has dried completely.

• Do Not Overdose: Overdosing can lead to serious health issues. It is crucial to use the correct dosage based on your cat’s weight.

• Pregnant and Nursing Cats: While Revolution Plus has been shown to be safe for pregnant and lactating cats, it’s always a good idea to consult a veterinarian before administering any medication to ensure it’s appropriate for the individual cat.

• Indoor vs. Outdoor Cats: Revolution Plus is suitable for both indoor and outdoor cats. However, outdoor cats may be at a higher risk for tick and flea exposure, making the monthly treatment even more essential for their protection.

Regional Considerations in the U.S.

The United States is home to a variety of climates, and the risk of flea, tick, and other parasitic infestations can vary greatly by region. For instance:

• Northeast: Areas with high humidity are ideal for fleas and ticks. In these regions, parasite prevention is often recommended year-round.

• Southeast: The warm, humid climate is a breeding ground for fleas and ticks, making parasite protection crucial, especially in summer months.

• West Coast: Flea and tick populations can be high in certain regions, especially in rural and coastal areas. Heartworm prevention is also particularly important in these climates.

• Midwest: Areas with forests and tall grasses are often home to ticks that can carry diseases like Lyme disease.

Pet owners in these regions should work closely with their veterinarian to determine the best parasite prevention strategy, which may include Revolution Plus as part of a comprehensive wellness plan.

Legal Access and Prescription Requirement

In the United States, Revolution Plus for cats is available only through a prescription from a licensed veterinarian. This ensures that the treatment is appropriate for the individual cat based on their health and medical history. Pet owners can obtain the medication through a veterinary clinic or an online pharmacy that requires a valid prescription.

It is important to avoid purchasing Revolution Plus from unauthorized online sources, as counterfeit or improperly stored medications could pose a risk to your cat’s health.

Conclusion

Revolution Plus for cats is a comprehensive, prescription-based topical treatment that offers protection against fleas, ticks, ear mites, heartworms, and intestinal worms. Its ease of application and ability to treat multiple parasitic infestations make it a valuable option for cat owners in the United States, particularly those in regions with high parasite exposure.

While Revolution Plus is generally safe and effective, pet owners should follow the recommended dosage guidelines and consult with their veterinarian to ensure the best care for their feline companions. With regular use, Revolution Plus can help keep your cat protected from the many parasites that threaten their health and comfort, allowing them to enjoy a happy, healthy life.