How Often to Apply Revolution Plus for Cats
Learn how often to apply Revolution Plus for cats to protect against fleas, ticks, and parasites safely and effectively.
Introduction
Keeping your cat protected from fleas, ticks, and other parasites is essential for their health and comfort. Revolution Plus is a popular topical treatment designed to prevent and control these pests effectively.
Understanding how often to apply Revolution Plus ensures your cat stays safe without risking overuse or under-treatment. This guide will help you navigate the proper application schedule and important considerations.
What Is Revolution Plus and How Does It Work?
Revolution Plus is a monthly topical medication for cats that combines two active ingredients: selamectin and sarolaner. These ingredients work together to kill fleas, ticks, ear mites, roundworms, and hookworms.
Applying Revolution Plus correctly helps break the parasite life cycle and protects your cat from infestations and related diseases.
Selamectin targets internal and external parasites, providing broad-spectrum protection for your cat’s health.
Sarolaner specifically kills fleas and ticks quickly, reducing the risk of bites and infections.
The topical formula is easy to apply, absorbed through the skin, and starts working within hours.
Monthly application maintains continuous protection, preventing parasite buildup and reinfestation.
Knowing how Revolution Plus works helps you understand why consistent monthly application is critical for your cat’s well-being.
Recommended Application Frequency for Revolution Plus
Veterinarians recommend applying Revolution Plus once every 30 days to maintain effective parasite control. This schedule ensures your cat remains protected without gaps in coverage.
Applying it more frequently than recommended can increase the risk of side effects, while less frequent application may leave your cat vulnerable to parasites.
Monthly application aligns with the life cycles of fleas and ticks, interrupting their development and preventing infestations.
Consistent treatment helps control internal parasites like roundworms and hookworms that can cause serious health issues.
Following the 30-day interval reduces the chance of resistance developing in parasite populations.
Regular application supports your cat’s overall health and comfort by minimizing parasite-related irritation and disease.
Sticking to the recommended monthly schedule is the safest and most effective way to use Revolution Plus.
How to Properly Apply Revolution Plus to Your Cat
Correct application is key to ensuring Revolution Plus works as intended. Applying the medication directly to your cat’s skin allows it to absorb and distribute evenly.
Improper application can reduce effectiveness and increase the risk of exposure to other pets or humans.
Part your cat’s fur at the base of the neck between the shoulder blades to expose the skin for application.
Apply the entire contents of one tube directly onto the skin, avoiding contact with the fur to ensure absorption.
Do not bathe your cat for 48 hours before or after application to maintain the medication’s effectiveness.
Wash your hands thoroughly after applying to prevent accidental exposure to the medication.
Following these steps helps maximize the benefits of Revolution Plus and keeps your cat safe.
Signs Your Cat May Need More Frequent Treatment
While monthly application is standard, certain situations may require closer attention or consultation with your veterinarian.
Some cats may be at higher risk for parasite exposure or have health conditions that affect treatment frequency.
If your cat has heavy flea infestations or lives in a high-risk area, your vet might recommend additional treatments or complementary products.
Cats with compromised immune systems may need tailored parasite control plans to keep them protected.
Exposure to other infested animals can increase parasite risk, possibly requiring more vigilant monitoring and treatment.
Signs like persistent scratching, hair loss, or visible parasites warrant a veterinary check to adjust treatment if needed.
Always consult your vet before changing the application frequency to ensure your cat’s safety.
Potential Side Effects and Safety Considerations
Revolution Plus is generally safe when used as directed, but some cats may experience mild side effects.
Understanding these helps you monitor your cat and seek veterinary care if necessary.
Common side effects include temporary redness or irritation at the application site, which usually resolves quickly.
Some cats may show mild gastrointestinal upset like vomiting or diarrhea after treatment.
Rarely, neurological signs such as tremors or lethargy can occur, requiring immediate veterinary attention.
Using Revolution Plus only as directed minimizes risks and ensures your cat’s safety during treatment.
If you notice any unusual symptoms after applying Revolution Plus, contact your veterinarian promptly.
Tips for Maintaining Parasite Control Between Applications
While Revolution Plus provides monthly protection, additional steps can help keep your cat parasite-free between doses.
Combining good hygiene and environmental management supports your cat’s health and reduces parasite risks.
Regularly clean your cat’s bedding and living areas to remove flea eggs and larvae from the environment.
Vacuum carpets and furniture frequently to reduce parasite presence in your home.
Limit your cat’s exposure to wild animals or other pets that may carry parasites.
Monitor your cat’s behavior and coat condition for early signs of parasites to catch infestations early.
These habits complement Revolution Plus treatment and help maintain a parasite-free environment for your cat.
Conclusion
Applying Revolution Plus once every 30 days is essential for effective parasite control in cats. This schedule maintains continuous protection against fleas, ticks, and internal parasites.
Proper application, monitoring for side effects, and environmental care all contribute to your cat’s health and comfort. Always follow your veterinarian’s advice and keep up with regular treatments to ensure your cat stays safe and parasite-free.
FAQs
How soon after applying Revolution Plus will my cat be protected?
Revolution Plus starts killing fleas within 2 hours and ticks within 12 hours after application, providing rapid protection for your cat.
Can I bathe my cat right after applying Revolution Plus?
It’s best to avoid bathing your cat for at least 48 hours after application to ensure the medication is fully absorbed and effective.
Is Revolution Plus safe for kittens?
Yes, Revolution Plus is safe for kittens 8 weeks and older and weighing at least 2 pounds. Always follow dosing instructions carefully.
What should I do if my cat misses a monthly dose?
Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember and then continue monthly applications from that date. Consult your vet if you’re unsure.
Can Revolution Plus be used with other flea treatments?
Consult your veterinarian before combining treatments to avoid potential interactions or overdosing on parasite medications.