Preventive measures to avoid flea and tick infestations in dogs and cats include spot-on topical flea medications are popular types of treatments for these issues. Many prescription options are available, including Revolution.
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Function
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Revolution has effectiveness against fleas, ticks, heartworms and some internal parasites. This product kills off adult fleas as well as stops flea eggs from hatching. Revolution products are available for both dogs and cats. It also works to prevent ear mites and sarcoptic mange. In cats, it also treats hookworms and roundworms. Treatment can begin in puppies older than six weeks and kittens older than eight weeks.
Features
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Revolution is a topical application applied at the base of the pet's neck on dry fur. This product typically dries within two hours. It only requires one application per month, and once dry, bathing will not wash it off. Revolution typically costs around $80 for a package with six treatments.
Benefits
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Use of Revolution has many benefits as a pet's flea and tick preventative medication. The dog treatments have a color-coded system that allows you to adjust the dosage according to your pet's weight. This is also the only flea and tick topical application that also works to prevent other types of pests. It is very good for pets that have multiple problems, such as fleas and ear mites. It is also the only flea medicine that prevents fatal heartworms in cats.
Considerations
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Revolution is a topical application, and children and other animals should be kept away from the pet receiving treatment, according to Steve Owens, assistant administrator of EPA's Office of Prevention, Pesticides and Toxic Substances. This is because the flea medication is a pesticide, and pesticides are poison. Revolution may be irritating to human skin and eyes, and reactions may include hives, itching and skin redness. It contains isopropyl alcohol and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) and if it is ingested, you should contact a doctor immediately.
Side Effects
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According to testing done by Pfizer, about one percent of pets that use Revolution have side effects, which are usually limited to vomiting. Other side effects from this product may include temporary hair loss, rapid breathing, increased heart rate and muscle tremors. Some potential side effects that affect the pet's stomach include loss of appetite, drooling, vomiting and diarrhea. Some pets experience drowsiness after application.
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