What if My Cat Licks Revolution? Curious Cat Behavior

Revolution is a popular flea and parasite medication that is applied to the skin of a cat, usually at the back of the neck.

It is effective for many parasites, such as adult fleas, flea larvae, ear mites, heartworms, roundworms, and hookworms. But what happens if your cat licks Revolution off its fur? Is it dangerous? Read on to find out.

What is Revolution and Why is it Used For Cats?

Selamectin^[1], often known by the brand name Revolution, is a topical parasiticide that kills parasites by interfering with their neurological systems^[2]. It is available with a prescription from a veterinarian and comes in different dosages depending on the weight of the cat.

According to Rania Gollakner, DVM, from VCA Hospitals states, “When used in cats, parasites treated by selamectin include fleas, heartworms, ear mites, hookworms, and roundworms, with some possible effectiveness against ear mites. It has also been used to treat notoedric mange, nasal mites, and cordylobiolosis.”

Revolution is used to protect cats from different parasites that might cause infections, pain, or irritation. Some of Revolution’s advantages include:

• It protects cats against fleas, lice, roundworms, hookworms, heartworms, and ear mites.

• It kills all stages of the flea life cycle found on the cat’s body and in the environment.

• It avoids heartworm disease, which can be deadly for cats.

• It treats and controls ear bug invasions, which can cause ear contamination and irritation.

• It treats and controls intestinal worm contamination, which can cause loose bowels, weight misfortune, and frailty.

What Are The Symptoms And Effects of Ingestion?

Revolution is designed to be applied topically to a spot at the back of the neck or any part of the coat that the cat cannot reach to lick. However, some cats may be curious or determined to lick it off their fur or another cat’s fur^[3].

If your cat licks Revolution off its fur, it could suffer from some adverse effects, such as:

• Salivating profusely
• Gagging and vomiting
• Frothing at the mouth
• Becoming agitated and squirming to remove the chemical from their mouth

These symptoms are usually caused by the unpleasant taste of Revolution, not by systemic toxicity. They are usually mild and self–limiting, meaning they will go away on their own without treatment.

Some cats, however, may be particularly sensitive or allergic to Revolution, or they may consume an excessive quantity of it. They may have more significant symptoms in some circumstances, such as:

• Diarrhea
• Lethargy
• Tremors
• Seizures

These signs point to a possible poisoning or overdose, which can be fatal to your cat. If you detect any of these symptoms in your cat after licking Revolution, take them to the clinic right away.

How to Apply it Correctly and Avoid Licking?

The best way to prevent your cat from licking Revolution is to apply it correctly and avoid licking^[4]. Here are some tips to follow:

• Examine the name headings carefully to guarantee the item is fitting for your cat’s species, age, and weight

• Apply it to a spot at the back of the neck, just between the shoulder blades, where your cat cannot reach to lick it. Do not apply it to broken skin or when the haircoat is wet.

• If you have more than one cat in the household, separate them after applying Revolution so they cannot lick it off each other.

• If your cat tries to lick Revolution off its fur, distract them with a toy or a treat until the product dries completely.

• If you feel like your cat is becoming ill from ingesting Revolution, bring them to the vet clinic immediately.

What to do If Your Cat Licks It and When to See a Vet?

If your cat licks Revolution off its fur, there are some steps you can take to help them feel better and recover faster. Here are some suggestions:

• Give your cat a tasty snack, such as tuna or chicken, to mask the bitter taste of Revolution and stimulate their appetite.

• Offer your cat plenty of fresh water to drink to flush out any toxins and prevent dehydration.

• Keep a watchful eye on your cat for any symptoms of pain or discomfort. Take them straight to the vet if they exhibit any indications of poisoning or overdose, like diarrhea, lethargy, tremors, or convulsions.

• Take your vet’s advice for any treatment or pharmaceutical they may endorse for your cat. They may also prescribe blood tests or other diagnostics to check your cat’s wellbeing status.

You should always see a vet if your cat licks Revolution off its fur and shows any signs of poisoning or overdose. Even if they don’t show any symptoms, it’s a good idea to consult your vet for advice and reassurance.

FAQs

Conclusion

Revolution is a safe and effective flea and parasite medication for cats, but it can cause some problems if your cat licks it off its fur. To use Revolution safely, you should:

• Apply it correctly on a spot where your cat cannot reach to lick it.
  
• Separate your cat from other cats after applying Revolution.
  
• Divert your cat with a toy or a treat until the item dries totally.
  
• Deliver your cat a nibble and water to cover the taste and flush out any poisons.
  
• Keep an eye on your cat for indications of poisoning or overdosing, and take them to the clinic if necessary.

Reference:

1. Problem medications for cats | Program in Individualized Medicine  |  WASHINGTON STATE UNIVERSITY
2. Neurological lameness in the cat, Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery | Sage Journals
3. Cat grooming tips. (n.d.). | ASPCA.
4. Revolution® (selamectin). Medication | PetMD.