Caring for our beloved feline companions involves various responsibilities, including protecting them from pesky parasites like fleas, ticks, and heartworms. One commonly used product for this purpose is Revolution Plus. However, cats are curious creatures who might try to lick it.
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. The drug does not have a direct toxic effect, and its unpleasant taste acts as a deterrent.
Read on to gain a deeper understanding of the potential risks, signs of ingestion, prevention strategies, and even insights into allergies related to Revolution Plus.
Cat Licking Revolution Plus: Is That a Problem?
No. There is no problem. Cats may lick Revolution Plus if you misapply it, as they can use their paws to touch the applied area and then lick their paws. Additionally, if other cats or dogs have been treated with the drug, your cat may lick it off their coat.
While it is not ideal for cats to ingest Revolution Plus, the medication does not have a direct toxic effect on felines. My cat, Muezza, licked the drug off her neck, and it did not affect her.
The formulation is designed to be safe even if accidental ingestion occurs. Also, the taste of the drug is not particularly pleasant for felines, discouraging them from ingesting it. However, some cats may still lick the application site or accidentally ingest it from the coat of another cat or dog 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 ingestion is essential. Some common indications that your cat may have licked Revolution Plus include:
- Tongue Irritation: If your cat has licked Revolution Plus, you may observe signs of tongue irritation. These can include excessive licking or pawing at the tongue, indicating discomfort or a mild inflammatory response.
- Drooling Reaction: Excessive salivation or drooling is another potential sign of your cat ingesting Revolution Plus.
- Digestive Upset: Your cat will sometimes experience digestive issues after licking Revolution Plus. This can manifest as stomach discomfort, resulting in diarrhea or constipation.
- Foaming at the Mouth: Foaming or excessive saliva at the corners of the mouth can occur as a reaction to the taste or discomfort caused by Revolution Plus ingestion.
- Vomiting: Cats may regurgitate Revolution Plus due to the unpleasant taste or potential stomach irritation caused by ingestion. If your cat vomits after licking the medication, monitoring their condition and seeking veterinary attention is advisable.
- Frequent Lip Licking: Cats may exhibit increased lip licking or smacking of the lips as a response to the taste or irritation caused by Revolution Plus ingestion.
- Hyperactivity: In some cases, cats may display increased energy levels or restlessness as a reaction to Revolution Plus.
- 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 mitigate the irritation caused by licking, providing your cat with a small amount of a sweet treat that they like can help soothe their discomfort. I gave Muezza biscuit to help with this, and it worked.
How to Prevent Your Cat from Licking Revolution Plus
Preventing your cat from licking Revolution Plus is crucial to avoid potential discomfort and 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.
Step 2: Find a suitable location
Choose a calm and comfortable area where you can easily access your cat’s neck.
Step 3: Part the fur
Gently part the fur on the back of your cat’s neck until the skin is visible. Ensure the area is clean and dry, and apply the drug exactly at the nip of your cat’s neck. This is where I messed up while applying the drug on Muezza’s neck.
Step 4: Apply the product
Place the tip of the Revolution Plus tube directly on the skin and squeeze out the entire contents onto the skin. Avoid getting the product on the fur.
Step 5: Prevent immediate licking
After applying Revolution Plus, distract your cat with play or treats to prevent immediate licking.
Step 6: Monitor your cat
Keep an eye on your cat for a few minutes to ensure they don’t lick the application site.
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 allergies or sensitivities to the medication. If your cat is allergic to Revolution Plus, you may observe the following signs:
- Hives: Allergic reactions can manifest as raised, itchy bumps on the skin, commonly known as hives. These hives may appear red and swollen and can be found anywhere on your cat’s body.
- Runny Nose: Excessive nasal discharge or sneezing may indicate an allergic response. If your cat starts exhibiting these symptoms after being treated with Revolution Plus, it could be a sign of an allergy.
- Hair Loss: It may indicate an allergic response if you notice patchy fur loss or increased shedding in the area you administered Revolution Plus.
- 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: If your cat becomes unusually tired, lacks energy, or appears less active after being treated with Revolution Plus, it is important to consider the possibility of an allergy.
- Inflammation of the Skin: Allergies to Revolution Plus can result in skin inflammation, often characterized by redness, swelling, or irritation.
- Respiratory Issues: In some cases, cats may experience respiratory issues due to an allergic reaction to Revolution Plus. This can include difficulty breathing, wheezing, coughing, or other respiratory distress symptoms.
If you observe any of these signs after administering Revolution Plus to your cat, it is crucial to consult your veterinarian promptly.
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, ensure your cat does not lick the area for at least two hours to ensure the drug has fully dried.
Q2: What if my cat licks a dog flea treatment instead?
If your cat licks a flea treatment that was originally on a dog, it can be very toxic. In such cases, taking your cat to the veterinarian immediately is crucial for prompt evaluation and appropriate treatment.
Q3: How often should I apply Revolution Plus on my cat?
Revolution Plus should be applied once a month to maintain its effectiveness in protecting your cat against fleas, ticks, and heartworms.
Conclusion
As a cat owner, you should be aware of the possibility of your cat licking Revolution Plus and the potential consequences it may have. While the medication is generally safe if accidentally ingested, precautions should be taken to prevent unnecessary discomfort and ingestion.
Additionally, monitoring for signs of allergies and seeking veterinary guidance when needed is crucial. With the right knowledge and proactive measures, you can protect your furry friend from parasites while maintaining its health and happiness.
Leave a Reply