What Does Revolution Treat For Cats?

By Author: VetSupply
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Ever cuddle with your cat and notice them scratching nonstop? Or see them twitching their ears way more than usual? Chances are, parasites like fleas or mites might be the sneaky culprits. That’s where Revolution steps in — your cat’s personal pest control superhero. Let’s break down exactly what Revolution treats and why it’s one of the go-to parasite preventatives for cats.

What Is Revolution for Cats?
Revolution is a monthly, topical treatment designed to protect cats from a variety of parasites — both the ones you can see and the ones you can't. It’s applied to the skin at the back of your cat’s neck, where it gets absorbed and begins to work systemically. Order revolution for cats!

Main Active Ingredient: Selamectin
The magic behind Revolution is Selamectin, a powerful parasiticide. Once absorbed, it enters the bloodstream and targets parasites both inside and out. It messes with their nervous systems, effectively killing them without harming your cat.

What Parasites Does Revolution Treat?
Fleas
If ...
... your cat’s constantly scratching or you've spotted little black specks in their fur (aka flea dirt), you’re dealing with fleas.

Revolution kills adult fleas

Prevents flea eggs from hatching, which breaks the life cycle

Reduces symptoms of flea allergy dermatitis (FAD)

Heartworms
Most people think of heartworms as a dog problem — but cats can get them too. The scariest part? There’s no approved treatment for heartworm disease in cats, only prevention.

Revolution kills immature heartworm larvae

Must be used monthly to remain effective

Ear Mites
Ear mites are tiny but mighty irritating. They cause that black, crumbly gunk in your cat’s ears and lead to constant scratching and shaking.

Revolution kills ear mites fast

Helps reduce inflammation and secondary infections

Roundworms
Roundworms are internal parasites that can wreak havoc on your cat’s digestive tract. Kittens are especially vulnerable.

Revolution treats Toxocara cati, a common feline roundworm

Helps prevent vomiting, bloating, and nutrient loss

Hookworms
Hookworms attach to your cat’s intestines and feed on blood — yikes! They can cause anemia, especially in young or frail cats.

Revolution is effective against Ancylostoma tubaeforme, a common hookworm

Supports healthy digestion and energy

Revolution vs Revolution Plus
What’s New in Revolution Plus?
Revolution Plus has all the benefits of regular Revolution, plus a bonus: Sarolaner, which adds protection against ticks and additional flea species.

So if ticks are a concern where you live, Revolution Plus might be the better choice.

Tick Control
Revolution Plus protects against:

Black-legged ticks (deer ticks)

Gulf Coast ticks

American dog ticks

Lone star ticks

This tick protection is especially important in rural areas or for cats that spend time outdoors.

How to Use Revolution for Cats
Application Process
Don’t worry — applying Revolution is quick and easy.

Remove one tube from the packaging.

Part the fur at the base of the neck.

Squeeze the entire contents onto the skin (not the fur).

Avoid touching the area until it dries.

And just like that — done for a month!

Dosage Guidelines
Revolution is safe for kittens as young as 8 weeks old

Revolution Plus can be used on cats 2.8 lbs or heavier

Apply once a month, ideally on the same day each month

Set a reminder so you don’t forget — consistency is key!

Safety and Side Effects
Is Revolution Safe?
Yes! Revolution is generally safe for most cats when used as directed. But as always, chat with your vet first, especially if your cat is:

Pregnant or nursing

Elderly or has chronic health issues

Potential Side Effects
Most cats tolerate Revolution well. If side effects do occur, they’re usually mild:

Hair loss or irritation at application site

Temporary digestive upset

Lethargy

If symptoms persist or worsen, contact your vet ASAP.

Revolution for Indoor Cats
Are Indoor Cats at Risk?
Yes, absolutely. Even if your cat never steps outside, they’re not immune to parasites.

Fleas and ticks can hitch a ride on humans or other pets

Mosquitoes (which transmit heartworms) sneak into homes easily

Ear mites and worms can be passed from other cats or contaminated surfaces

So, yes — indoor cats need protection too.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does Revolution treat tapeworms?
Nope. Revolution doesn’t treat tapeworms. If your cat has those, your vet will recommend a separate treatment, often containing praziquantel.

2. What should I do if I miss a dose?
Give it as soon as you remember. If you’re a week or more late, talk to your vet about whether you need to restart the cycle.

3. Can I bathe my cat after using Revolution?
Wait 24 hours after applying Revolution before giving your cat a bath. Water can interfere with the absorption if applied too soon.

4. Do I need a prescription to buy Revolution?
Yes, both Revolution and Revolution Plus require a vet prescription. This ensures your cat is healthy enough for use and that you’re choosing the right product.

5. Can I use Revolution on dogs?
Nope. Revolution for cats is formulated specifically for felines. Always use pet products as labeled to keep your fur babies safe.

Conclusion
There you have it — the full scoop on what Revolution treats for cats. From fleas and worms to mites and heartworms, Revolution covers a wide range of parasites that could be harming your kitty’s health. And with Revolution Plus, you can even guard against ticks.

No matter how clean or pampered your cat is, parasites are crafty — and prevention is always easier (and cheaper!) than treatment. So talk to your vet, get your monthly doses sorted, and keep those bugs far away from your feline friend.