How Fast Does Revolution Start Working on Cats?
When it comes to protecting your feline friend from harmful parasites, pet owners seek both speed and efficacy. Revolution and Revolution Plus are veterinary-recommended topical solutions that offer comprehensive protection against a range of internal and external parasites in cats. Understanding how quickly these medications start working is essential to ensure prompt relief for your pet and peace of mind for you.
What Is Revolution and Revolution Plus?
Revolution contains the active ingredient selamectin, while Revolution Plus combines selamectin with sarolaner, allowing it to target a broader spectrum of parasites. These treatments are applied monthly as a spot-on solution at the base of the neck.
How Quickly Does Revolution Plus Work?
The effectiveness timeline is key for pet owners dealing with an active flea infestation. Here's how quickly Revolution Plus acts:
- Starts killing fleas within 6 hours of reinfestation.
- Eliminates most adult fleas within 36 hours of initial application.
- Maintains 100% efficacy for at least 5 weeks post-application in field and lab studies.
Parasites Targeted by Revolution and Revolution Plus
Both formulations provide robust protection, with Revolution Plus offering extended coverage. Key parasites targeted include:
- Fleas – kills adult fleas and prevents eggs from hatching.
- Heartworm – prevents disease caused by Dirofilaria immitis.
- Ear mites – treats and controls Otodectes cynotis.
- Hookworms and Roundworms – significantly reduces parasite burden (over 99% with a single dose).
- Ticks (Revolution Plus only) – effective against lone star, Gulf Coast, American dog, and black-legged ticks.
- Tapeworm prevention – by killing fleas that may carry Dipylidium caninum.
Application Instructions
For best results, follow these steps precisely when applying:
- Open the tube using the underside of the cap.
- Part hair at the base of the neck near the shoulders until skin is visible.
- Place the tip on the skin and squeeze out the entire contents.
- Do not massage; allow the solution to absorb naturally.
- Avoid contact with your fingers and wash hands after application.
- Do not bathe your cat for at least 24 hours post-application.
Important Safety Information
Revolution and Revolution Plus are generally well tolerated in cats and kittens over 8 weeks old and weighing at least 2.8 lbs (1.27 kg). Possible side effects include temporary hair loss at the application site, drowsiness, vomiting, or diarrhea. Cats with a history of neurological disorders should use Revolution Plus cautiously due to the sarolaner it contains.
Always consult your veterinarian prior to use, particularly if your pet is ill, debilitated, or on other medications.
Storage and Precautions
- Store below 30°C (86°F); Revolution is flammable.
- Do not use on kittens under 8 weeks of age or cats under 2.8 lbs.
- Avoid human contact with the application site until it is dry.
What If I Miss a Dose?
If a dose is missed, administer it as soon as remembered, then restart the monthly schedule. Do not double up on doses.
Why Speed Matters
The rapid action of Revolution Plus is particularly valuable in situations involving active infestations. Killing fleas within hours not only disrupts the breeding cycle but also provides fast relief from itchiness and allergic reactions in your cat. Moreover, by preventing fleas from laying eggs, Revolution Plus helps eradicate environmental infestations over time.
Conclusion
Revolution and Revolution Plus provide fast, effective, and sustained protection against a range of parasites. Revolution Plus begins killing fleas as quickly as 6 hours after reinfestation and maintains high efficacy for weeks. It’s a trusted choice for comprehensive parasite management, especially essential for both indoor and outdoor cats. Always use under veterinary supervision and follow the application instructions carefully to ensure the safest and most effective results for your cat.
