Comparing Frontline and Revolution: Which is Better for Your Cat?
When it comes to protecting your feline friend from harmful parasites, choosing the right preventive treatment is crucial. Two of the most commonly prescribed topical medications are Frontline and Revolution. While both aim to eradicate fleas and other pests, they differ significantly in terms of spectrum, formulation, and overall effectiveness for various types of infestations.
What is Revolution?
Revolution is a prescription-only topical medication that contains the active ingredient selamectin. A more advanced version, Revolution Plus, combines selamectin with sarolaner, offering extended protection against ticks.
- Used in cats and kittens over 8 weeks of age and 2.8 lbs (1.27 kg).
- Prevents and treats fleas, heartworm, ear mites, hookworms, and roundworms.
- Revolution Plus also targets ticks and potentially flea tapeworm infection.
- Monthly spot-on application at the base of the neck.
What is Frontline?
Frontline is an over-the-counter topical treatment primarily composed of fipronil, and sometimes includes (S)-methoprene for flea egg inhibition. It is known for:
- Treating and preventing fleas and ticks.
- Used for both cats and dogs, with dosing variations.
- Available without a prescription.
- Typically applied once every month.
Key Differences Between Revolution and Frontline
To understand which medication may be better for your cat, it helps to break down their core differences:
- Parasite Coverage: Revolution Plus offers broader coverage including fleas, ticks, heartworm, roundworm, hookworm, and ear mites. Frontline covers fleas, lice, and ticks but lacks internal parasite and heartworm protection.
- Prescription Status: Revolution and Revolution Plus require a veterinary prescription; Frontline does not.
- Active Ingredients: Revolution uses selamectin (and sarolaner in Revolution Plus), while Frontline uses fipronil and (S)-methoprene.
- Tick Control: Revolution Plus includes comprehensive tick protection; original Revolution does not. Frontline is traditionally more aligned with external parasites like ticks and fleas.
- Tapeworm Prevention: Only Revolution Plus is FDA-approved for preventing dipylidium caninum tapeworms, by targeting fleas that carry them.
Effectiveness and Speed
Revolution Plus starts working within 6 hours of reinfestation and was shown to eliminate 100% of adult fleas within 36 hours. It provides residual flea protection for up to five weeks. Frontline also acts swiftly but may be slightly less efficient in heavy infestations or in controlling internal parasites.
Application and Safety
- Both products are easy to apply via a monthly spot-on method.
- Do not bathe your cat for at least 24 hours after application as both are waterproof afterward.
- Revolution and Revolution Plus are well tolerated but should be used cautiously in cats with known neurological conditions (due to sarolaner).
Side Effects
Most cats tolerate Revolution and Frontline well. However, mild side effects may occur:
- Revolution: Hair loss at the site, lethargy, loss of appetite, rare neurologic side effects.
- Frontline: Skin irritation or redness at the application site, although rare.
Veterinary Recommendations
Veterinarians prefer Revolution or Revolution Plus when internal parasite protection is needed. It is particularly recommended for:
- Cats who go outdoors or live in tick-endemic areas.
- Multiple-pet households where cross-infestation is a risk.
- Cats with signs of intestinal worms or ear mites.
When is Frontline a Suitable Choice?
Frontline may be a good option for:
- Cats primarily needing flea and tick protection.
- Situations where a prescription might not be accessible.
- Owners seeking a more economical solution for short-term use.
Storage and Precautions
Both Revolution and Frontline should be stored below 30°C (86°F) in original packaging. Keep away from light, heat, and open flames.
The Verdict: Which is Better?
Overall, Revolution Plus offers more comprehensive protection for cats against internal and external parasites. It is especially useful for preventing heartworm disease and tapeworm infection — aspects not covered by Frontline. However, Frontline remains a reliable alternative for focused flea and tick control.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between Frontline and Revolution depends on your cat’s health, lifestyle, and exposure risk. Consult your veterinarian to identify which option suits your pet best. For indoor-outdoor cats or those at risk of heartworm or intestinal parasites, Revolution Plus may be the superior choice.
