How Does Revolution Kill Roundworms in Cats?

Roundworms, also called ascarids, are one of the most common intestinal parasites in cats, according to the "Clinical Textbook for Veterinary Technicians." These parasites steal nutrients from their hosts, causing illness, disease and malnutrition. Revolution, a product manufactured by Pfizer, works to eliminate roundworms from the cat's body.

  1. Parasite Identification

    • Cats become infected with roundworms after eating an infected host animal or coming into contact with infected fecal matter. Roundworms can also be passed from mother to kitten while nursing. Two types of roundworms affect felines: Toxascaris leonina and Toxocara cati, as stated by "Pathology and Parasitology for Veterinary Technicians." Roundworms are zoonotic and able to be passed from cats to other species, including humans.

    Revolution

    • Revolution contains the active ingredient selamectin. Selamectin treats and protects against not only roundworms, but also fleas, ear mites, ticks and heartworms. Revolution is a prescription only drug and is applied once monthly to the cat's skin. It is absorbed through the skin and into the blood stream, working its way into the intestines to kill roundworms, according to the manufacturer. Dosage is based upon body weight. Cats under 5 lbs. should be treated with 0.25 mL. Cats 5.1 to 15 lbs. need 0.75 mL monthly, according to "Applied Pharmacology for Veterinary Technicians."

    How It Works

    • Selamectin blocks nerve signals in the roundworm's body. Without these nerve signals, parasitic roundworms become paralyzed, possibly leading to death. Once paralyzed, the roundworms detach from the cat's intestinal walls, as stated by the "Clinical Textbook for Veterinary Technicians." The roundworms are then eliminated from the cat's body through the excretory system along with fecal matter.

    Considerations

    • Selamectin can cause adverse reactions in some animals. Cats that are sick or underweight should not use Revolution. Revolution is not approved for kittens under 8 weeks of age. Clinical trials have shown temporary irritation and hair loss at the site of application, which are two of the most common side effects. Revolution is a topical solution, and if ingested can cause vomiting, diarrhea, lack of appetite, drooling, lethargy, seizure or muscle tremors. Some cats develop excessive salivation and nausea that dissipate within 24 hours after administration; these symptoms are not cause for alarm, according to "Applied Pharmacology for Veterinary Technicians."

    Expert Insight

    • Your cat needs to be seen by a veterinarian in order to obtain a prescription for Revoluton. Speak to a licensed veterinarian if you suspect your cat is having an adverse reaction or allergic reaction to Revolution. Seek emergency veterinary medical care in the event of a suspected overdose, as advised in the "Clinical Veterinary Advisor."