Why Indoor Cats Still Need Revolution or Revolution Plus
While it's easy to assume indoor cats are shielded from parasitic threats, the truth is far more complex.
Indoor cats are not completely immune to
fleas, ticks, heartworms, or other harmful parasites. Using products like
Revolution or
Revolution Plus provides vital protection that keeps your feline friend safe from a range of health risks.
How Parasites Can Reach Indoor Cats
Even indoor-only felines face exposure to parasites from several unexpected sources:
- Visitors or humans can carry fleas or ticks on clothes or shoes.
- Other pets in the household that go outside may bring parasites indoors.
- Open windows or doors serve as easy access points for mosquitoes or other pests.
- Used furniture, carpets, or bedding can harbor flea eggs or larvae.
Revolution vs. Revolution Plus: What’s the Difference?
Both products are monthly
topical medications applied to the skin at the base of your cat’s neck. However, they differ in their active ingredients and range of protection:
- Revolution: Contains selamectin. It protects against fleas, heartworms, ear mites, hookworms, and roundworms.
- Revolution Plus: Includes both selamectin and sarolaner. It adds comprehensive tick protection against species like the lone star and black-legged ticks and is FDA-approved to prevent flea tapeworm infections.
Internal and External Parasites Covered
Revolution and Revolution Plus are effective against a wide array of parasites:
- Adult fleas and flea eggs (prevents infestations)
- Heartworms (prevention only, not treatment)
- Ear mites
- Hookworms and roundworms
- Ticks (only in Revolution Plus)
- Tapeworms (indirectly via flea control with Revolution Plus)
Application and Dosage
Both products are administered monthly. Here’s how:
- Break the seal using the cap’s underside.
- Part the fur at the base of the neck to expose the skin.
- Apply the full contents of the tube to one spot on the skin.
- Do not rub in or touch the area until dry. Wash hands post-application.
Dosage varies by weight and should be prescribed by a veterinarian. It is not a one-size-fits-all solution.
Effectiveness & Benefits
Revolution Plus is known for its 6-in-1 protection, starting to kill fleas within 6 hours and reaching full efficacy in 36 hours. Its protection against fleas, ticks, and internal parasites lasts a full month with each application.
In controlled studies:
- Killed 100% of adult fleas for 5 weeks
- Reduced roundworm and hookworm loads by over 99%
- Killed various ticks for the entire month post-treatment
Safety and Side Effects
Revolution and Revolution Plus are generally well tolerated in cats 8 weeks and older, weighing at least 2.8 lbs. Possible side effects include:
- Temporary hair loss at application site
- Lethargy, vomiting, or mild appetite loss
- Rarely, neurological reactions like tremors with sarolaner (in Revolution Plus)
Always use with caution in cats with known neurological disorders. Avoid human contact with the medication immediately post-application, and wash any exposed skin.
Environmental Considerations
Many assume that by treating the environment, indoor cats are safe. However,
Revolution ensures protection from unseen threats:
- Flea populations may persist in carpets or upholstery for a time even after extermination.
- Heartworm risk remains due to mosquito entry through open windows or doors.
Veterinary Guidance Is Key
Revolution and Revolution Plus are prescription medications. Your veterinarian will assess:
- Your cat’s age and weight
- Any underlying health issues
- Exposure risk to parasites based on your home and environment
If a dose is missed, apply it as soon as possible. Never double up doses and continue the monthly application cycle from the new date.
In Summary
Indoor cats are not exempt from parasite exposure. Fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes can enter your home and put your cat’s health at risk. Revolution and Revolution Plus offer reliable monthly protection against internal and external threats, helping ensure your
indoor cat stays safe and healthy all year round. Trust your veterinarian to determine the best option and dosage suited to your feline friend.
