Revolution vs. Frontline for Cats: Which Is Better?
When it comes to protecting your feline companion from harmful parasites, choosing the right medication can be challenging. Two popular prescription choices are Frontline and Revolution, both offering monthly topical protection. While they share some similarities, there are distinct differences that can make a crucial impact on your pet’s health.
What Is Revolution for Cats?
Revolution is a vet-prescribed topical solution formulated with selamectin. Revolution Plus includes an additional component—sarolaner—which provides expanded protection, especially against ticks. This monthly spot-on treatment is applied to the skin at the base of the neck and targets a broad range of parasites.
Parasites Protected by Revolution and Revolution Plus
- Revolution: Fleas (kills adults and prevents eggs), heartworm prevention, ear mites, hookworms, and roundworms.
- Revolution Plus: All the above plus four common tick species—including lone star and black-legged ticks—as well as flea tapeworm prevention.
Application and Dosage Details
Revolution products are administered based on a cat’s weight. The spot-on method is simple and requires no ingestion. The correct dosage must be prescribed by a veterinarian. Revolution starts killing fleas within hours and continues offering protection for up to five weeks.
Effectiveness and Speed of Action
- Revolution Plus: Begins to kill fleas within 6 hours.
- Kills 100% of adult fleas for at least five weeks.
- Reduces roundworms and hookworms by over 99% after one dose.
- Exclusive tick-killing capabilities not present in basic Revolution.
Safety and Precautions
Both Revolution and Revolution Plus are generally well tolerated. However, sarolaner in Revolution Plus has been associated with rare neurological side effects such as tremors or seizures in predisposed cats. Common side effects are minimal and include:
- Temporary hair loss at application site
- Appetite changes
- Vomiting, diarrhea
- Redness or itching
These products should not be used on kittens under 8 weeks or animals weighing less than 2.8 lbs (1.27 kg).
Comparison with Frontline
Frontline, containing fipronil or fipronil + (S)-methoprene (as in Frontline Plus), mostly targets fleas and ticks. Unlike Revolution or Revolution Plus, Frontline does not protect against heartworms, ear mites, or internal parasites.
Key differences include:
- Heartworm prevention: Only Revolution has this feature.
- Internal parasites: Revolution treats roundworms and hookworms.
- Ticks: Both cover ticks, but Revolution Plus is more comprehensive.
- Compounded action: Revolution Plus combines two potent ingredients—ideal for broad protection.
Environmental and Practical Considerations
Even indoor cats are vulnerable to parasites brought in by humans, other pets, or through open doors and windows. Revolution and Revolution Plus’ broad-spectrum coverage makes them ideal even for indoor-only cats. Flea infestations can cause itching, tapeworms, and skin allergies. Heartworm infections, though less common in cats, can be fatal.
Veterinary Guidance and Access
Both Revolution and Revolution Plus are prescription-only. Proper diagnosis and weight-based dosing must be supervised by a vet. Frontline, while often available over the counter, may not provide the extensive parasite coverage needed for your cat’s specific risks.
Storage and Administration Tips
- Store below 30°C (86°F), away from heat and flames.
- Do not bathe your cat for 24 hours post-application.
- Apply the entire contents in one spot, avoiding contact with hands.
- Safe for use with many other veterinary products.
Final Verdict: Revolution or Frontline?
When comparing Frontline to Revolution, Revolution Plus emerges as the superior choice for most cats due to its broader protection spectrum. From fleas and ticks to intestinal parasites and deadly heartworms, Revolution Plus offers powerful monthly defense in a single application.
Choosing the right product depends on:
- Your cat’s health status and age
- Environment and exposure risk (outdoors vs. indoors)
- Veterinary recommendation
Consult your vet to determine which product aligns best with your pet’s lifestyle and health needs.
