Revolution Plus For Cats

Revolution Plus for Cats is a comprehensive, monthly topical treatment that protects cats from a wide range of parasites. This easy-to-apply solution targets fleas, ticks, ear mites, roundworms, hookworms, and helps prevent heartworm disease. Suitable for cats of all sizes and ages, Revolution Plus offers all-in-one protection, making it a convenient and effective choice for pet owners. Whether your cat spends time indoors or outdoors, this treatment helps keep them healthy, safe, and free from infestations, ensuring peace of mind for pet owners and comfort for their feline companions.

What Does Revolution Plus Protect Against?

Fleas

Ticks

Ear Mites

Roundworms & Hookworms

Heartworm

Safe for cats

Approved for use in cats and kittens 8 weeks of age and older and weighing 2.8 lbs or greater

Topical solution

A simple-to-apply, quick-drying, small-volume, monthly topical solution

Revolution Plus is recommended for the prevention of heartworm disease caused by Dirofilaria immitis. It effectively eliminates adult fleas (Ctenocephalides felis) and is used for both treating and preventing flea infestations. Additionally, it treats and controls tick infestations, including those caused by the black-legged tick (Ixodes scapularis), Gulf Coast tick (Amblyomma maculatum), and American dog tick (Dermacentor variabilis). Revolution Plus also addresses ear mite infestations (Otodectes cynotis), as well as roundworm (Toxocara cati) and hookworm (Ancylostoma tubaeforme) infections. It offers protection for one month and is suitable for cats and kittens 8 weeks and older, weighing 2.8 pounds or more.

Why Is Parasite Protection Important for Cats?

Cats can be exposed to parasites in a variety of ways, even if they spend most or all of their time indoors. Fleas and ticks can hitch a ride into your home on humans or other animals, and internal parasites like roundworms and hookworms can be contracted from contaminated food, water, or the environment. Mosquitoes, which carry heartworm disease, can easily find their way indoors as well. These parasites can cause a range of issues, from mild discomfort to serious health risks, including life-threatening conditions.

Untreated infestations can lead to problems such as:

  • Flea infestations, causing intense itching, skin irritations, and allergic reactions.
  • Tick-borne diseases, leading to anemia, lethargy, and in severe cases, life-threatening infections.
  • Ear mites, which can cause discomfort, itchiness, and ear infections.
  • Intestinal worms, like roundworms and hookworms, that can cause digestive problems, weight loss, and overall weakness.
  • Heartworm disease, which, though rarer in cats than in dogs, can lead to severe lung and heart issues.

Given the wide variety of parasites that can affect cats, it’s crucial to use a comprehensive product like Revolution Plus, which targets both internal and external parasites, offering protection against common threats that your cat might face.

FAQs for Revolution Plus

How does Revolution Plus work?

Revolution Plus is designed to protect against fleas, ear mites, and other parasites. It works through dual-action mechanisms, targeting different parasites in cats with an expanded spectrum of activity.

Can Revolution Plus be used in cats under 8 weeks of age?

Revolution Plus is approved for use in cats and kittens that are 8 weeks of age or older and weigh at least 2.8 lbs. For kittens weighing less than 2.8 lbs, a different product, Revolution, which is FDA-approved for younger and smaller kittens, may be more suitable.

Can Revolution Plus be administered to cats that are breeding, pregnant, or lactating?

The safety of Revolution Plus in breeding, pregnant, or lactating cats has not been established. As such, it is recommended to use the original Revolution product, which is approved for use in these situations.

Are black-legged or deer ticks, Gulf Coast ticks, or American dog ticks common?

Certain ticks are more prevalent in specific regions of the U.S. (e.g., Gulf Coast ticks in the Southeast, American dog ticks on the Pacific Coast, and black-legged ticks across the eastern U.S.). However, it is important to maintain year-round protection against ticks and other pests in all 50 states to ensure all cats, regardless of lifestyle, receive comprehensive protection with broad-spectrum preventive products like Revolution Plus.

When should cats be bathed as it relates to the use of Revolution Plus?

No specific studies have been conducted on the effects of bathing after using Revolution Plus. It is advisable to bathe your cat before applying the treatment and allow the skin to fully dry. The U.S. package insert suggests that bathing or shampooing a cat 24 hours after applying Revolution Plus does not reduce its effectiveness against heartworms.

 

Fleas on Cats

One of the biggest benefits of Revolution Plus is how easy it is to use. The treatment comes in a small tube with a pre-measured dose, based on your cat’s weight. Here are the steps to apply the medication:

  1. Prepare: Remove the tube from its packaging. Hold your cat still, and part the fur at the base of the neck, just in front of the shoulder blades.

  2. Apply: Place the tip of the tube directly on the skin, and squeeze the contents out. Ensure that the medication is applied directly to the skin, not on the fur.

  3. Allow to Dry: Do not rub the medication into the skin. Allow it to dry naturally, and prevent your cat from licking the area or coming into contact with water for a few hours after application.

Once absorbed, the treatment begins working quickly to protect your cat from a wide range of parasites for the entire month. It’s recommended to apply the treatment on the same day each month to ensure consistent protection.

Fleas on Cats

Fleas are one of the most common parasites that affect cats, and they can cause a wide range of problems for both the feline and their owner. These tiny, wingless insects feed on the blood of their host, causing discomfort, itching, and in some cases, more severe health issues. Flea infestations can quickly get out of control if not treated promptly, making it essential for cat owners to understand the risks associated with fleas, how to prevent infestations, and the best ways to treat them.

In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about fleas on cats, from how to spot them to effective treatment and prevention methods.

What Are Fleas?

Fleas are small, reddish-brown insects that measure about 1-3 millimeters in length. They have strong legs that allow them to jump great distances relative to their size, making it easy for them to move between animals and environments. Fleas thrive in warm and humid environments, and their life cycle can be relatively short, allowing populations to grow rapidly.

Fleas are parasitic insects, meaning they require a host to feed on. In the case of cats, fleas latch onto the skin and fur, biting and feeding on blood. While a single flea bite might not seem like a significant issue, fleas can multiply quickly, leading to a full infestation that affects not only the cat but also the home environment.

How Do Cats Get Fleas?

Cats can get fleas in a variety of ways, even if they are primarily indoor pets. Fleas can be picked up from:

  • Outdoor environments: If your cat goes outside, they may come into contact with fleas in grassy areas, under bushes, or other places where fleas thrive.
  • Other animals: Cats that interact with other animals, such as dogs or stray cats, can easily pick up fleas. Fleas can jump from one animal to another, especially in close quarters.
  • Humans: Fleas can hitch a ride on people’s clothing or shoes, and once inside the house, they can jump onto a cat.
  • Household environment: Flea eggs, larvae, and pupae can reside in carpets, furniture, bedding, and cracks in flooring. If a cat enters these areas, they can become infested.

Once a flea finds a host, it will feed, reproduce, and lay eggs on the cat. These eggs often fall off the cat and settle in the surrounding environment, such as bedding, carpets, or furniture, where they can hatch and continue the infestation cycle.

Signs of Fleas on Cats

Spotting fleas on your cat can sometimes be difficult, especially if the infestation is in its early stages. However, there are several signs that can indicate your cat has fleas:

  1. Excessive Scratching and Grooming: Cats with fleas will often scratch or bite at their fur and skin more than usual. This behavior is a response to the irritation caused by flea bites.

  2. Visible Fleas or Flea Dirt: In some cases, you may see fleas moving through your cat’s fur. Fleas are small but can be spotted if you look closely, especially near the neck, belly, or base of the tail. You may also notice “flea dirt” – tiny black or brown specks of flea feces – on your cat’s fur or skin. Flea dirt looks like small grains of pepper and, when moistened, will turn red due to the presence of digested blood.

  3. Hair Loss: Fleas can cause your cat to scratch or groom excessively, which can result in hair loss, especially around the back, neck, and tail areas.

  4. Red Bumps or Scabs: Flea bites can cause red, inflamed bumps or scabs on your cat’s skin, particularly in areas where the fleas tend to congregate. Cats with flea allergy dermatitis (an allergic reaction to flea saliva) may experience more severe skin reactions.

  5. Restlessness and Irritability: Cats with fleas may become restless or irritable due to the discomfort caused by flea bites. They may have trouble settling down or seem more agitated than usual.

  6. Pale Gums: In severe infestations, especially in kittens or smaller cats, fleas can cause anemia due to blood loss. Pale gums are a sign of anemia and require immediate veterinary attention.

Health Risks of Fleas on Cats

While fleas are an irritating nuisance for cats, they can also lead to more serious health problems, including:

  1. Flea Allergy Dermatitis (FAD): Some cats are allergic to flea saliva, and even a single flea bite can trigger intense itching, inflammation, and skin infections. Flea allergy dermatitis can cause significant discomfort and requires treatment to manage.

  2. Tapeworms: Fleas are intermediate hosts for tapeworms. If a cat ingests an infected flea while grooming, the tapeworm larvae can develop in the cat’s intestines, leading to a tapeworm infection.

  3. Anemia: In cases of heavy flea infestations, particularly in kittens or older cats, fleas can cause significant blood loss, leading to anemia. Anemia can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.

  4. Secondary Skin Infections: Cats that scratch or bite at flea bites may break the skin, leading to secondary bacterial infections. These infections may require antibiotics and veterinary care to resolve.

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Ticks on Cats

Ticks are small, blood-feeding parasites that can cause significant health problems for cats. Although ticks are more commonly associated with dogs, they can latch onto cats, particularly those that spend time outdoors. Ticks can transmit dangerous diseases and cause discomfort for your feline companion. Identifying and managing ticks on cats is essential for their overall health and well-being. In this article, we will explore what ticks are, how cats can get them, the health risks they pose, how to remove them, and most importantly, how to prevent ticks from becoming a problem for your cat.

What Are Ticks?

Ticks are arachnids, related to spiders and mites, and they live by feeding on the blood of animals, including cats. Ticks go through four stages of life: egg, larva, nymph, and adult. At each of the active life stages, they need to find a host to feed on. Ticks are external parasites that attach themselves to their host by embedding their mouthparts into the skin, where they feed for several days or even weeks, depending on the tick species and its life stage.

Ticks are often found in grassy, wooded, or brushy areas where they wait for a passing host to latch onto. Once on the host, they bite and feed on blood, which can introduce pathogens that cause serious diseases. They tend to favor warm, sheltered areas on a cat’s body, such as the head, neck, ears, and in between the toes.

How Do Cats Get Ticks?

Cats can pick up ticks in various ways, especially when they venture outdoors. While ticks are more prevalent in rural and wooded areas, they can be found in suburban and urban environments as well. Some of the most common ways cats get ticks include:

  1. Outdoor Exploration: Cats that roam outdoors, even for short periods, are at risk of coming into contact with ticks. Ticks often lurk in tall grasses, under bushes, and in wooded areas, waiting for animals to brush against them. Outdoor cats are more likely to encounter ticks in these environments, especially during the warmer months when ticks are most active.

  2. Other Animals: Cats can get ticks from other animals, such as dogs, other cats, or wildlife. Even indoor cats can be at risk if they come into contact with animals that have been exposed to ticks.

  3. Humans: Ticks can attach to humans while outdoors and then transfer to a cat when the person returns home. Ticks can easily drop off clothing or shoes and attach to a cat once inside the home.

  4. Indoor Plants or Materials: If you bring outdoor plants, firewood, or other materials into your home, ticks may hitch a ride indoors and latch onto your cat.

Signs of Ticks on Cats

Ticks can be difficult to detect on cats, especially if your cat has a thick or dark-colored coat. However, regular inspection of your cat’s fur and skin can help you catch ticks before they cause significant harm. Here are some signs that your cat may have ticks:

  1. Visible Ticks: Ticks are small but visible to the naked eye. If you run your hands through your cat’s fur, you may feel a small, hard bump, which could be a tick. Ticks typically appear as small, dark, oval-shaped bodies attached to the skin, often in areas like the neck, head, and ears. The longer the tick has been feeding, the larger it will appear.

  2. Excessive Scratching or Licking: If your cat is scratching or licking a specific area more than usual, it could be due to a tick bite. Ticks can cause irritation, and cats may react by trying to remove the tick themselves.

  3. Redness or Swelling: The area around the tick bite may become red, swollen, or irritated, especially if the tick has been attached for a long period. Cats with sensitive skin may have an allergic reaction to the tick’s saliva, leading to more pronounced inflammation.

  4. Lethargy or Weakness: In some cases, ticks can cause more severe reactions in cats, leading to lethargy, weakness, or a general decline in energy levels. This can occur if the tick has transmitted a disease or if there is a heavy infestation.

  5. Loss of Appetite: Cats that have been exposed to tick-borne illnesses may experience a decrease in appetite or changes in eating behavior. If your cat suddenly becomes less interested in food and you suspect tick exposure, it’s important to seek veterinary advice.

Health Risks of Ticks on Cats

Ticks are more than just an uncomfortable nuisance for cats; they can pose significant health risks. When a tick bites a cat, it can transmit pathogens that cause serious diseases. Some of the most common tick-borne diseases that affect cats include:

  1. Cytauxzoonosis: One of the most severe tick-borne diseases affecting cats, cytauxzoonosis is caused by a protozoan parasite (Cytauxzoon felis) transmitted by the lone star tick. This disease is often fatal in domestic cats, as it causes widespread organ failure. Symptoms of cytauxzoonosis include fever, lethargy, jaundice, and difficulty breathing. Immediate veterinary intervention is required if this disease is suspected.

  2. Lyme Disease: While Lyme disease is more commonly associated with dogs and humans, cats can also be infected by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, which is transmitted by black-legged ticks (deer ticks). Lyme disease can cause symptoms such as fever, lameness, joint pain, and lethargy in cats.

  3. Ehrlichiosis: This bacterial infection is caused by Ehrlichia species, which are transmitted by ticks such as the brown dog tick. Infected cats may experience symptoms such as fever, loss of appetite, weight loss, and lethargy.

  4. Anaplasmosis: Anaplasmosis is another bacterial infection transmitted by ticks, particularly the black-legged tick. Symptoms in cats may include fever, lethargy, and joint pain.

  5. Tick Paralysis: Certain species of ticks produce a neurotoxin in their saliva that can cause paralysis in cats. This condition, known as tick paralysis, can progress rapidly and may lead to life-threatening respiratory failure if not treated promptly.

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Ear Mites in Cats

Ear mites are a common and uncomfortable condition that affects cats, particularly those that spend time outdoors or come into contact with other animals. These tiny, microscopic parasites live in the ear canal of cats and feed on the wax and oils inside the ear, causing irritation, inflammation, and in some cases, severe infections. Left untreated, ear mites can lead to significant discomfort and more serious health problems for your cat. Fortunately, ear mites are treatable and preventable with proper care and attention.

In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about ear mites in cats, including what they are, how they spread, signs of infection, treatment options, and prevention methods.

What Are Ear Mites?

Ear mites are tiny parasites scientifically known as Otodectes cynotis, which are the most common species of mites that infest the ears of cats. These mites are so small that they are often invisible to the naked eye, but their presence can be identified by the symptoms they cause. Ear mites live in the ear canal, where they feed on the wax, oils, and debris produced by the cat’s ear. They can also live on the skin around the ear and other parts of the body, but they thrive in the warm, moist environment of the ear canal.

Ear mites are highly contagious, spreading quickly between animals through direct contact. They are most commonly found in cats, dogs, and ferrets, but can occasionally infest other animals. While ear mites are not typically zoonotic (meaning they do not usually spread to humans), it’s important to address the issue quickly to prevent discomfort for your cat and to avoid the spread to other pets in the household.

How Do Cats Get Ear Mites?

Cats can contract ear mites in several ways, particularly if they spend time outdoors or around other animals. The most common methods of transmission include:

  1. Contact with Infected Animals: Cats that come into contact with other animals, especially those in close quarters like shelters or multi-pet households, are at a higher risk of contracting ear mites. Ear mites spread through direct contact with an infected animal, including during play, grooming, or shared sleeping spaces.

  2. Outdoor Exposure: Outdoor cats are more likely to encounter ear mites, as they may come into contact with other animals, including stray cats, feral animals, or wildlife that carry ear mites.

  3. Shared Bedding or Grooming Tools: Ear mites can survive for short periods in the environment, so cats can also become infested by sharing bedding, grooming tools, or other items with infected animals.

Signs of Ear Mites in Cats

Ear mites cause a variety of symptoms, many of which can be mistaken for other ear-related conditions, such as bacterial or fungal ear infections. It’s important to recognize the signs of ear mites early to seek treatment promptly. Common signs of ear mites in cats include:

  1. Excessive Scratching: Cats with ear mites often scratch at their ears or head frequently. The itching caused by the mites can be intense, leading your cat to scratch their ears with their paws or rub their head against furniture or the floor.

  2. Head Shaking: Because ear mites irritate the ear canal, cats with an infestation often shake their head in an attempt to dislodge the mites. This behavior is a key indicator that something is wrong with the ears.

  3. Dark, Waxy Discharge: One of the most noticeable signs of ear mites is the presence of a dark, crumbly discharge in the ear, which often resembles coffee grounds. This discharge is made up of ear wax, dried blood, and mite excrement, and it can accumulate inside the ear canal.

  4. Red, Inflamed Ears: The constant irritation caused by ear mites can lead to inflammation and redness inside the ear. In severe cases, the outer ear may also become swollen, painful, or infected due to persistent scratching and head shaking.

  5. Strong Odor: Cats with ear mites may develop a foul odor coming from the ears. This smell is typically caused by the buildup of discharge and debris inside the ear canal.

  6. Scabs and Hair Loss: Excessive scratching can lead to scabs, sores, and even hair loss around the ears and head. Cats may cause further damage to their skin by continuously scratching at the affected area.

  7. Hearing Loss or Sensitivity: In advanced cases of ear mite infestations, cats may experience temporary hearing loss or increased sensitivity to touch around their ears due to inflammation and blockage in the ear canal.

Diagnosing Ear Mites

If you suspect that your cat has ear mites, it’s essential to take them to a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis. Your vet will likely perform a physical examination of the ears and may use an otoscope to look inside the ear canal for signs of mites. In some cases, your veterinarian may take a sample of the ear discharge and examine it under a microscope to confirm the presence of mites.

While some ear conditions, such as bacterial or fungal infections, can cause similar symptoms, ear mites are distinct because of the characteristic dark discharge and the presence of the mites themselves. Once ear mites are confirmed, your veterinarian will recommend an appropriate treatment plan to eliminate the mites and relieve your cat’s symptoms.

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Worms in Cats

Worm infestations are a common health issue in cats, particularly in kittens and cats that spend time outdoors. These parasitic infections can range from mildly uncomfortable to potentially life-threatening if left untreated. Several types of worms can affect cats, each with different symptoms and health risks. Fortunately, with proper treatment and preventative measures, worm infections in cats can be easily managed and prevented.

In this article, we will explore the types of worms that commonly affect cats, how to recognize the signs of an infestation, available treatments, and the steps you can take to protect your cat from worms.

Types of Worms in Cats

There are several types of worms that can infect cats, each with its unique characteristics and risks. The most common types of worms in cats are:

  1. Roundworms (Toxocara cati and Toxascaris leonina)
    Roundworms are the most prevalent intestinal parasites in cats. These spaghetti-like worms can grow up to several inches in length and reside in the cat’s intestines. Roundworm infestations are particularly common in kittens, which can become infected through their mother’s milk or by ingesting roundworm eggs in the environment.

    Roundworms can cause various digestive issues in cats, including diarrhea, vomiting, and a distended abdomen. They can also lead to weight loss and stunted growth in kittens if the infestation is severe.

  2. Tapeworms (Dipylidium caninum and Taenia taeniaeformis)
    Tapeworms are flat, segmented worms that live in the cat’s intestines. They are typically contracted when a cat ingests an infected flea, as fleas are intermediate hosts for some tapeworm species. Cats can also become infected by eating rodents or other prey that carry tapeworm larvae.

    Tapeworms release egg-filled segments into the cat’s feces, which resemble small grains of rice. These segments may also be visible around the cat’s anus. While tapeworms usually do not cause severe symptoms, they can lead to digestive disturbances, weight loss, and an itchy rear end.

  3. Hookworms (Ancylostoma tubaeforme)
    Hookworms are small, thin worms that attach to the lining of the small intestine and feed on the cat’s blood. Cats can contract hookworms through ingestion of larvae from contaminated soil or by larvae penetrating the skin. Hookworm infections are more common in warmer climates and can be serious due to the blood loss they cause.

    Symptoms of hookworm infection in cats include diarrhea (often with blood), weight loss, anemia, and general weakness. Hookworm infestations are especially dangerous for kittens and older cats, as they can lead to severe anemia and even death if left untreated.

  4. Whipworms (Trichuris campanula)
    While whipworm infections are rare in cats, they can still occur, especially in certain regions. Whipworms live in the large intestine and cecum, where they attach to the intestinal lining and cause irritation. Whipworms are usually contracted when a cat ingests whipworm eggs from the environment.

    Symptoms of whipworm infection include diarrhea, weight loss, and abdominal pain. Like hookworms, whipworms can cause significant damage to the intestinal lining if left untreated.

  5. Lungworms (Aelurostrongylus abstrusus)
    Lungworms are parasites that infect the lungs rather than the intestines. Cats typically contract lungworms by ingesting small prey such as birds or rodents that carry the larvae. Lungworms reside in the cat’s lungs and can cause respiratory symptoms.

    Cats with lungworm infections may exhibit coughing, difficulty breathing, wheezing, and lethargy. Lungworm infections can be severe, particularly in kittens or cats with weakened immune systems, and require prompt veterinary care.

  6. Heartworms (Dirofilaria immitis)
    Although heartworms are more commonly associated with dogs, cats can also become infected. Heartworm larvae are transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. In cats, heartworm infections are less common but can still be serious and often affect the lungs rather than the heart.

    Symptoms of heartworm infection in cats include coughing, difficulty breathing, vomiting, and lethargy. In severe cases, heartworm infections can be fatal. There is no approved treatment for heartworm disease in cats, making prevention key.

How Do Cats Get Worms?

Cats can contract worms in various ways, depending on the type of parasite. Some of the most common transmission methods include:

  • Ingesting Infected Fleas or Prey: Cats often get tapeworms by ingesting infected fleas during grooming or by eating small prey like rodents that carry tapeworm larvae.
  • Contact with Contaminated Soil or Feces: Roundworms and hookworms are commonly contracted through the ingestion of eggs or larvae from contaminated soil, feces, or prey.
  • Mother-to-Kitten Transmission: Kittens can become infected with roundworms through their mother’s milk if she is carrying the parasite.
  • Mosquito Bites: Heartworms are transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito.

Symptoms of Worms in Cats

Worm infestations can cause a wide range of symptoms in cats, from mild to severe. The signs of worms in cats depend on the type of worm and the severity of the infestation. Common symptoms of worm infections include:

  • Diarrhea: Many types of intestinal worms, such as roundworms and hookworms, can cause diarrhea, which may contain blood in severe cases.
  • Vomiting: Cats with roundworms or other intestinal parasites may vomit worms or experience frequent vomiting as a result of irritation in the digestive system.
  • Weight Loss: Despite a normal or increased appetite, infected cats may lose weight because the parasites are consuming nutrients.
  • Pot-Bellied Appearance: Kittens with roundworms often develop a bloated or pot-bellied appearance due to the presence of the worms in their intestines.
  • Lethargy: Worm infestations can lead to a lack of energy and general weakness, especially if the infection is causing anemia.
  • Visible Worms or Segments: Roundworms or tapeworm segments may be visible in the cat’s feces, vomit, or around the anus.
  • Coughing or Difficulty Breathing: Cats with lungworms or heartworms may show respiratory symptoms, such as coughing, wheezing, or difficulty breathing.

Diagnosing Worms in Cats

If you suspect that your cat has worms, a visit to the veterinarian is essential. Your vet will perform a thorough examination and may ask for a stool sample to check for the presence of worm eggs or larvae. In some cases, blood tests or imaging (such as X-rays or ultrasounds) may be necessary to diagnose lungworms or heartworms.

Accurate diagnosis is important because different types of worms require different treatments, and some infections can lead to serious complications if not addressed promptly.

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