Caring for our beloved feline companions involves various responsibilities, including protecting them from pesky parasites like fleas, ticks, and heartworms. One commonly used and veterinarian-recommended product for this purpose is Revolution Plus, which contains the active ingredients selamectin and sarolaner. However, cats are curious creatures who might try to lick it after application.
So, is it safe if I find my cat licking Revolution Plus? Yes, it is generally safe for cats to lick Revolution Plus if accidentally ingested in small amounts. The medication is formulated with a wide margin of safety, and its unpleasant taste acts as a deterrent, often preventing significant ingestion.
Read on to gain a deeper understanding of the potential risks, signs of accidental exposure or ingestion, important prevention strategies, and even insights into allergic reactions related to Revolution Plus.
Cat Licking Revolution Plus: Is That a Problem?
No, generally there is no significant problem if your cat accidentally licks Revolution Plus. Cats may lick Revolution Plus if it’s misapplied, as they can use their paws to touch the treated area and then lick their paws. Additionally, if other cats or dogs in the household have been treated with the drug, your cat may groom them and ingest it from their fur.
While it is not ideal for cats to ingest Revolution Plus, the medication does not have a direct toxic effect on felines in typical accidental exposures. The active ingredients, selamectin and sarolaner, are designed to be effective against parasites when absorbed through the skin, but have a low oral bioavailability, meaning only a small amount is absorbed if ingested. My cat, Muezza, licked the drug off her neck, and she experienced no ill effects, consistent with its safety profile.
The formulation is designed to be safe even if accidental, minor ingestion occurs. Also, the taste of the drug is not particularly pleasant for felines, often discouraging them from ingesting a large amount. However, some cats may still lick the application site or accidentally ingest it from the coat of another pet in the household.
Reference: REVOLUTION PLUS- selamectin and sarolaner solution
How To Tell If Your Cat Licked Revolution Plus
While Revolution Plus is generally safe for cats, knowing the signs and symptoms that may indicate accidental exposure or ingestion is essential. Most reactions are mild and temporary. Some common indications that your cat may have licked Revolution Plus include:
- Tongue or Mouth Irritation: If your cat has licked Revolution Plus, you may observe signs of mild tongue or oral irritation. These can include excessive licking or pawing at the mouth, indicating temporary discomfort or a mild inflammatory response due to the taste or sensation.
- Drooling Reaction: Excessive salivation or drooling (hypersalivation) is another potential and common sign of your cat ingesting Revolution Plus, often a natural reaction to the unpleasant taste.
- Digestive Upset (Mild): Your cat may sometimes experience mild digestive issues after licking Revolution Plus. This can manifest as stomach discomfort, potentially resulting in soft stools, diarrhea, or constipation, though these are less common with small ingestions.
- Foaming at the Mouth: Foaming or excessive saliva at the corners of the mouth can occur as a strong taste reaction or discomfort caused by Revolution Plus ingestion.
- Vomiting: Cats may occasionally regurgitate Revolution Plus due to the unpleasant taste or potential mild stomach irritation caused by ingestion. If your cat vomits after licking the medication, monitoring their condition and consulting your veterinarian is advisable, especially if vomiting is persistent.
- Frequent Lip Licking: Cats may exhibit increased lip licking or smacking of the lips as a response to the lingering taste or irritation caused by Revolution Plus ingestion.
- Hyperactivity or Lethargy (Rare): In very rare cases, or with larger ingestions, cats may display temporary increased energy levels or restlessness, or conversely, unusual tiredness. If these symptoms are pronounced or persist, veterinary attention is warranted.
- Licking Surfaces Around the House: After ingesting Revolution Plus, your cat may excessively lick objects and surfaces around the house. This behavior can be attributed to the taste lingering on their paws or the desire to alleviate any discomfort.
To help mitigate the immediate taste irritation caused by licking, providing your cat with a small, highly palatable treat they enjoy can sometimes help soothe their discomfort.
I gave Muezza a biscuit to help with this, and it seemed to alleviate her mild drooling. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, always consult your veterinarian.
How to Prevent Your Cat from Licking Revolution Plus
Preventing your cat from licking Revolution Plus is crucial to avoid potential discomfort and accidental ingestion. Here is a step-by-step guide to properly apply Revolution Plus to your cat, reducing the chances of them licking it:
Step 1: Prepare the application
Read the instructions carefully and ensure you have the appropriate dosage for your cat’s weight. Wear gloves to protect your hands from direct contact with the product.
Step 2: Find a suitable location
Choose a calm, quiet, and comfortable area where you can easily access your cat’s neck. Ensure minimal distractions.
Step 3: Part the fur
Gently part the fur on the back of your cat’s neck, at the base of the skull, until the skin is clearly visible. Ensure the area is clean and dry. Applying the drug precisely at the nape of your cat’s neck, where they cannot easily reach to lick or groom, is critical. This is where I initially made a slight error while applying the drug on Muezza’s neck.
Step 4: Apply the product
Place the tip of the Revolution Plus tube directly onto the visible skin and squeeze out the entire contents in a single spot. Avoid getting the product on the fur as much as possible, as this makes it easier for the cat to ingest.
Step 5: Prevent immediate licking
After applying Revolution Plus, it is important to distract your cat. Engage them in play, offer a favorite treat, or hold them gently for a few minutes (e.g., 30 minutes to an hour) to prevent immediate licking until the product begins to dry.
Step 6: Monitor your cat
Keep a close eye on your cat for at least two hours to ensure they don’t lick the application site. In multi-pet households, separate treated cats from other cats and dogs for at least 30 minutes, or until the application site is completely dry, to prevent them from licking the wet medication off each other.
Here is a video to help you understand how to apply the drug efficiently.
What If My Cat Is Allergic to Revolution Plus
While Revolution Plus is generally safe, some cats may have rare allergies or sensitivities to components of the medication. If your cat is allergic to Revolution Plus, you may observe the following signs, which typically indicate a more serious reaction:
- Hives: Allergic reactions can manifest as raised, itchy bumps on the skin, commonly known as hives or urticaria. These hives may appear red and swollen and can be found anywhere on your cat’s body.
- Runny Nose & Swollen Face: Excessive nasal discharge, sneezing, or swelling around the face or muzzle may indicate an allergic response, potentially alongside watery eyes.
- Hair Loss or Skin Inflammation at Application Site: While some mild skin irritation is possible, significant patchy fur loss, intense itching, redness, or swelling at the application site could indicate an allergic response or localized sensitivity.
- Watery Eyes: If your cat’s eyes appear red, irritated, or have increased tear staining, it may be related to an allergic reaction to the medication.
- Lethargy or Weakness (Severe): If your cat becomes unusually tired, lacks energy, or appears significantly less active or weak after being treated with Revolution Plus, it is important to consider the possibility of a systemic allergic reaction.
- Respiratory Issues: In some rare but severe cases, cats may experience respiratory issues due to an allergic reaction to Revolution Plus. This can include difficulty breathing, wheezing, coughing, or other signs of respiratory distress, which are medical emergencies.
If you observe any of these severe or persistent signs after administering Revolution Plus to your cat, it is crucial to consult your veterinarian promptly. Seek immediate veterinary attention for any signs of respiratory distress, severe swelling, or profound lethargy. You can also contact a pet poison control hotline for immediate guidance.
FAQs
Below are a few more related questions you might be asking yourself now.
Q1: How long does Revolution Plus take to dry?
Revolution Plus typically dries within a couple of minutes after application. However, to ensure optimal absorption and prevent accidental ingestion by the treated cat or other pets, it is best to ensure your cat does not lick the area for at least two hours, or until the product feels completely dry to the touch.
Q2: What if my cat licks a dog flea treatment instead?
If your cat licks a flea or tick treatment formulated specifically for dogs, it can be very toxic and potentially life-threatening. Many dog-specific products contain permethrin, which is highly poisonous to cats. In such cases, taking your cat to the veterinarian immediately is crucial for prompt evaluation and appropriate emergency treatment. Do not wait to see symptoms; act quickly. Contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control center immediately.
Q3: How often should I apply Revolution Plus on my cat?
Revolution Plus should be applied once a month, every 30 days, to maintain its continuous effectiveness in protecting your cat against fleas, ticks, heartworms, ear mites, and intestinal worms as directed by your veterinarian. Consistent monthly application is key for optimal parasite prevention.
Conclusion
As a responsible cat owner, it’s understandable to be concerned about your cat licking Revolution Plus after application. While the medication is generally safe if accidentally ingested in small amounts due to its wide safety margin and low oral bioavailability, precautions should always be taken to prevent unnecessary discomfort and ingestion.
Additionally, closely monitoring your cat for any signs of mild irritation or, more rarely, allergic reactions, and seeking timely veterinary guidance when needed, is crucial. For any significant concerns or unusual symptoms, always consult your veterinarian or a pet poison control hotline. With the right knowledge and proactive measures, you can effectively protect your furry friend from parasites while maintaining their health and happiness.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information and should not be considered a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Always consult with your veterinarian regarding your cat’s specific health needs, treatment plans, and any concerns you may have about medication application or side effects.
