When it comes to keeping your feline friend healthy and parasite-free, Revolution is a name that pops up often in veterinary circles. It’s not just another topical treatment—it’s a comprehensive, once-a-month solution designed to protect your cat from a range of internal and external parasites. If you’ve ever wondered exactly what Revolution treats for cats, how it works, and what the differences are between Revolution and Revolution Plus, this guide will break it all down for you.

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What Is Revolution for Cats?

Revolution is a vet-prescribed, spot-on treatment made by Zoetis. It contains selamectin, an active ingredient that works systemically—meaning it’s absorbed through the skin and distributed throughout the body to kill or prevent parasites. Revolution is applied once a month directly onto your cat’s skin, usually at the base of the neck, and provides protection for 30 days. Order revolution for cats!

Revolution is safe to use on:

• Cats and kittens from 8 weeks of age

• Pregnant and lactating cats (under veterinary guidance)

• Cats weighing 2.6 lbs (1.2 kg) or more

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What Does Revolution Treat for Cats?

Revolution covers a broad spectrum of common feline parasites, making it a go-to product for many cat owners. Here’s a breakdown of what it treats and protects against:

1. Fleas

Revolution kills adult fleas and prevents flea eggs from hatching. This breaks the flea life cycle and helps eliminate infestations over time.

• Begins killing fleas within 12 hours

• Prevents re-infestation by stopping egg development

• Ideal for cats with flea allergy dermatitis (FAD)

2. Ear Mites

These tiny parasites live in the ear canal and can cause itching, dark discharge, and ear infections. Revolution:

• Kills ear mites

• Relieves irritation and inflammation

• Requires no separate ear drops

3. Heartworm Disease

Yes, cats can get heartworm, too! While less common than in dogs, it’s often more dangerous in felines. Revolution:

• Prevents heartworm by killing the immature larvae (Dirofilaria immitis)

• Needs to be given monthly, year-round in many regions

• Especially important in areas with mosquito exposure

4. Roundworms

These internal parasites are commonly found in kittens and can lead to poor growth, vomiting, or a pot-bellied appearance. Revolution:

• Treats and controls Toxocara cati, a type of roundworm

• Reduces risk of transmission to humans (zoonotic risk)

5. Hookworms

These intestinal worms feed on a cat’s blood and can cause anemia, especially in kittens. Revolution:

• Treats and controls Ancylostoma tubaeforme

• Helps eliminate adult worms present at the time of treatment

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What About Revolution Plus?

Revolution Plus is the upgraded version of Revolution. It includes the same active ingredient—selamectin—plus an additional compound called sarolaner, which makes it effective against even more parasites.

What Does Revolution Plus Treat?

Everything listed above, plus:

6. Ticks

Revolution Plus kills several types of ticks:

• Black-legged tick (deer tick)

• American dog tick

• Gulf Coast tick

• Lone star tick

Ticks are not only a nuisance—they carry diseases like cytauxzoonosis and Lyme disease. Revolution Plus kills ticks before they can transmit infections.

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Application & Usage

Revolution and Revolution Plus are both easy to apply:

1. Part the fur at the base of the neck

2. Apply the contents of the applicator directly to the skin

3. Let it dry—don’t bathe your cat for 24 hours

A single dose protects for 30 days, and regular monthly use is recommended for year-round protection.

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Safety and Side Effects

Most cats tolerate Revolution very well, but like any medication, side effects can occur:

• Temporary hair loss or skin irritation at the application site

• Lethargy or drooling (rare)

• Neurologic symptoms (very rare, more common with sarolaner in Revolution Plus)

Always consult your vet before starting a new treatment, especially if your cat is elderly, pregnant, or has a history of neurological issues.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

❓ Can I Use Revolution on Kittens?

Yes! Revolution is safe for kittens 8 weeks and older. Revolution Plus is also safe from 8 weeks, provided the kitten weighs at least 2.8 lbs.

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❓ Do I Need a Prescription for Revolution?

Yes, both Revolution and Revolution Plus require a prescription. This ensures that your cat gets the correct product and dosage based on their health status and weight.

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❓ How Fast Does Revolution Work?

Revolution starts killing fleas within 12 hours and prevents further egg hatching. It also begins working against mites, worms, and heartworm larvae within a day or so.

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❓ Is Revolution Effective Against Tapeworms?

No, Revolution does not treat tapeworms. If your cat has tapeworms, your vet may prescribe a dewormer like praziquantel in addition to Revolution.

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❓ Can Indoor Cats Benefit from Revolution?

Absolutely. Even indoor cats are at risk of fleas, mites, and heartworm-carrying mosquitoes. Indoor environments are not 100% parasite-free, especially if you live in warm or humid areas.

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❓ What’s the Difference Between Revolution and Revolution Plus?

Revolution Plus offers broader protection and is ideal if your cat goes outdoors or lives in a tick-prone area.

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Final Thoughts

When it comes to parasite prevention, Revolution and Revolution Plus are both excellent choices. Revolution offers essential protection against fleas, worms, mites, and heartworm, while Revolution Plus goes the extra mile by also targeting ticks. Both are easy to apply, require only monthly use, and provide peace of mind for cat parents.

Whether you have a rambunctious kitten or a laid-back senior cat, parasite prevention should be a non-negotiable part of your pet care routine. Talk to your vet about which option is right for your cat, and stay consistent with monthly treatments to keep those pesky parasites at bay.