Sarolaner and selamectin for cats

Sarolaner and selamectin are the active ingredients in Revolution Plus, an FDA approved topical parasite control product for cats. It protects against heartworm disease, fleas, several tick species, ear mites, and certain types of intestinal worms. Guidelines from both the Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC) and Canadian Parasitology Expert Panel (CPEP) emphasize the importance of regular protection against heartworms, fleas, ticks, and intestinal parasites.

Your veterinarian may prescribe Revolution Plus to your cat for treatment, control, or prevention of certain internal and external parasites. Revolution Plus treats and prevents fleas, prevents heartworm disease and tapeworms, and treats and controls ear mites, roundworms, hookworms, and four species of ticks. Revolution Plus is manufactured by ZoetisⓇ and is available by prescription only.

Important Safety Information: Sarolaner belongs to the isoxazoline class of drugs. The FDA reports that this class of drug has been associated with neurologic adverse effects, like tremors, ataxia, and seizures. Seizures have been reported in cats receiving isoxazoline class drugs, even in cats without a history of seizures. Caution is advised when prescribing this drug for cats with a history of seizures or neurological disorders. Research into a potential link between isoxazolines and seizures is ongoing, and experts continue to evaluate safety data to better understand these reports. The overall consensus is currently that isoxazolines are generally safe and effective when used as directed.

Each tube of Revolution Plus contains a dose of selamectin and sarolaner for topical, monthly application that’s based on your cat’s weight. The combination of selamectin and sarolaner protects cats against a wider range of parasites than either ingredient alone. Each medicine targets different parasites, so together they provide broad, complementary protection against fleas, ticks, mites, intestinal worms, and heartworm disease.

Selamectin

After being applied to the skin on the back of a cat’s neck, Selamectin is absorbed into the cat’s bloodstream and spreads to tissues throughout the body. It protects cats against several important parasites:

• Heartworms: Kills the immature larval stage of heartworms (transmitted by mosquitoes) before they can grow into adult worms that damage the heart and lungs
• Intestinal worms: Disrupts the neuromuscular systems of roundworms and hookworms, causing paralysis and death of the worms and allowing the cat’s body to expel them
• Ear mites: Kills the adult ear mites that live in a cat’s ear canal, quickly improving itching and irritation (selamectin does not kill mite eggs, which means new mites can still hatch for a few weeks after treatment begins)

Sarolaner

Sarolaner is also absorbed through the skin and circulated throughout the body.

When a flea or tick bites your cat and takes a blood meal, it also ingests sarolaner. The medicine causes the parasite’s nervous system to become overactive, leading to paralysis and death.

By killing fleas quickly, sarolaner stops them from laying eggs and helps break the flea life cycle in your home. Because fleas can carry tapeworm larva, sarolaner also helps prevent tapeworm; however, it doesn’t prevent tapeworm transmission from rodents or birds if your cat hunts.

Sarolaner provides protection against four common tick species: the lone star tick, Gulf Coast tick, American dog tick, and black-legged (deer) tick.

Revolution Plus comes as a colorless or yellow liquid, contained in a small plastic tube and applied topically to the skin on the back of the neck. Each tube is for single use only. The tubes are available in three dose strengths, each corresponding to the weight of a cat.

The medication should not be applied to broken skin, since it contains alcohol which can further damage or irritate the skin. Revolution Plus is not to be applied if your cat’s coat is wet, and a cat should not be bathed within 24 hours of a treatment; however, there’s been no investigation as to whether bathing a cat before application affects efficacy.

This is how Revolution Plus is applied:

1. Firmly press the cap down to puncture the seal (you will hear or feel it “click”), then remove the cap.
2. Part your cat’s hair on the base of their neck above the shoulder blades so that the skin is visible.
3. With the tip of the tube touching the skin, squeeze the tube three or four times to empty all its contents directly onto the skin (there is no need to massage the product into the skin).
4. Once the tube is empty, discard of it with your ordinary household waste.

A veterinarian or veterinary technician can demonstrate or give instructions for applying Revolution Plus.

The Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC) recommends all cats in the US, including indoor cats, receive year-round parasite prevention. Pests can find their way indoors, and keeping your cat on continuous prevention helps protect both them and the rest of the household.

In Canada, veterinarians often follow recommendations from the Canadian Parasitology Expert Panel (CPEP). These guidelines are adapted to Canada’s climate and seasonal parasite risks. Depending on where you live, your vet may recommend you use prevention on your cat year-round or only during the warmer months when certain pests are most active.

For flea prevention, give your cat Revolution Plus at least one month before fleas become active or year-round on a monthly basis. If your cat already has fleas when Revolution Plus is applied, the adult fleas die rapidly, often before they can lay eggs. However, it takes at least three months of regularly treating all pets in the household to eliminate an existing infestation because of flea eggs and pupae that are already present in the environment. If your vet prescribes Revolution Plus for a flea infestation, be sure to tell them about any other animals in your home, since treating all pets in the home makes a reinfestation less likely.

For tick prevention and control, apply Revolution Plus at least one month before ticks become active or year-round on a monthly schedule.

To treat and control ear mites, administer Revolution Plus to the skin over the shoulder blades, the same as for all other indications; it’s not applied to the ear canal. Ear mite eggs, like flea eggs, are resistant to treatment, so repeated monthly dosing over two or three months is necessary to eliminate ear mites. Regular, year-round monthly use prevents future ear mite infestations.

To treat intestinal roundworm and hookworm infections, apply Revolution Plus as a single topical dose. Regular monthly reapplication controls future infections.

Heartworm disease can be prevented by year-round application of Revolution Plus on a monthly schedule. Alternatively, it can be started within one month of your cat’s first exposure to mosquitoes, with the final dose being given within one month from their last exposure to mosquitoes. If your cat has an unknown heartworm history but tests negative for heartworm before starting Revolution Plus, it’s possible the heartworm infection is present but as yet undetectable. In this case, a heartworm test is advised three to four months after starting Revolution Plus. Cats who are already infected with adult heartworms can be given Revolution Plus to prevent further infections. If replacing another monthly heartworm preventative product, the first dose of Revolution Plus should be given within a month of the last dose of the former medication.

Revolution Plus is generally well tolerated in most cats. In some cats, stiff hair, clumping of hair, hair discoloration, or a slight powdery residue may be observed at the application site. These effects are temporary and do not reduce the safety or effectiveness of Revolution Plus.

In clinical studies, common adverse effects (1–10 percent of cats) include:

• Lethargy
• Skin lesions (not associated with the application site)
• Anorexia (appetite loss)
• Pruritus (itchy skin)
• Conjunctivitis (inflammation of the eye)
• Sneezing
• Hair loss at application site

Uncommon adverse effects (less that 1 percent of cats) include:

• Scabbing at the application site

Clinical signs that were rare/of unknown frequency include:

• Neurological symptoms, including seizures

Understanding side effects

Reading through the list of side effects can be alarming, but it’s important to understand how these lists are created. In clinical studies, every symptom that occurs is recorded, whether or not the medication is the cause. For example, if a cat develops diarrhea while in a trial, it must be noted, even if the diarrhea was due to something unrelated. Cats receiving a placebo often show the same kinds of symptoms. Scientists compare these groups carefully to determine whether a medication is safe and effective.

Reported side effects are those that are reported to Zoetis by a veterinary professional or pet owner who has administered Revolution Plus. Though the reported symptoms are seen after giving the medication, it’s very difficult to reliably confirm that the medication is the direct cause of the symptom noted.

The list of side effects is extensive, but it doesn’t mean your cat is likely to have them. If you’re still feeling unsure, your vet can help you weigh the risks and benefits for your unique situation.

Are side effects more likely to happen with the first dose?

Some side effects may appear soon after the first dose because it’s the first time the body has been exposed to the drug; others may not emerge until a medication is used for a longer period of time. Even if a symptom appears shortly after starting a new medication, your vet may need to investigate further to determine whether the medication is truly the cause.

What should I do if I notice changes in my pet right after starting a new medication?

If your pet shows new symptoms after starting a medication, veterinary input is key to understanding whether the change is related to the drug or from another cause. This is especially important if you see serious signs needing urgent action like:

• Difficulty breathing
• Trouble standing up
• Severe vomiting or diarrhea
• Pale gums
• Seizures
• Collapse

These are emergency signs. Even though these symptoms may not be directly related to this medication, they always need to be urgently evaluated by a veterinarian. Decisions about stopping the medication, adjusting the dose, or switching medications are safest when made with guidance from your vet.

Where can I find more information?

The drug label and package insert have the most significant information, including the list of side effects seen during scientific studies. These studies are done in a controlled environment, which means external factors are limited to prevent them from affecting the data. Clinical studies are designed to measure the benefits and potential risks of a medication.

Though the package label has extensive information, your vet is the best resource to guide you on whether this medication is right for your cat, since they can take into account their individual condition and circumstance.

For more details about Revolution Plus, visit the Zoetis website.

There are no known drug interactions for using Revolution Plus with other medications. In well-controlled safety studies, Revolution Plus was used at the same time as other medications, including some types of vaccines, antiparasitics, antibacterials, sedatives, anesthetics, opioid analgesics, corticosteroids, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatories. No adverse reactions were associated with using Revolution Plus at the same time as these medications. However, absence of evidence is not proof against all drug interactions. Always check with a veterinarian before giving your pet any new medications, and make sure they are aware of all other medications and supplements you give your pet.

Research studies show Revolution Plus to have a strong safety profile. Revolution Plus is generally well-tolerated in cats, but just like with any medication, some cats may be at more of a risk for side-effects than others. Your veterinarian can determine whether sarolaner or selamectin are right for your cat. Here are some of the main concerns:

• Species and age: Revolution Plus is for cats only. It is not for use in kittens under eight weeks of age.
• Weight: Revolution Plus is not for use in cats weighing less than 2.8 lbs.
• Existing and pre-existing health conditions: Revolution Plus should not be applied to broken skin, since it contains alcohol which can further damage or irritate the skin. Veterinarians may be hesitant to recommend sarolaner to a cat with a history of seizures or other neurological symptoms. If your cat has another chronic illness, always talk to your vet before starting any new medication.
• Pregnancy and nursing: The safe use of sarolaner and selamectin has not been evaluated in breeding, pregnant, or lactating cats.

Veterinarians can take into account each cat’s specific health condition and circumstance. If at any time you have questions or concerns about the safety of a medication for your cat, your vet can provide professional guidance tailored to your unique situation and cat’s needs.

There are important safety details you need to follow if you give your cat medications that contain sarolaner or selamectin (Revolution Plus).

Human safety

Revolution Plus may be irritating to the skin and eyes. Reactions like hives, itching, and skin redness have been reported with accidental skin contact of selamectin topical solution. People who have a sensitivity to sarolaner or selamectin should handle Revolution Plus with caution or consult a healthcare professional before using it.

• This medication is not intended for use in humans; keep out of reach of children.
• Avoid contact between the product and fingers. If accidental contact occurs, immediately wash the product off the skin with soap and water.
• Do not come into contact with or allow children to come into contact with the application site for four hours after application.
• If accidental human ingestion occurs, seek medical attention immediately.
• In case of accidental eye contact, flush eyes copiously with water. If wearing contact lenses, rinse the eyes first then remove the contact lenses and continue to rinse for 5–10 minutes and seek medical attention.

Storage

• This medication is flammable; keep away from heat, sparks, open flames or other sources of ignition
• Store at or under 30°C (86°F)
• Do not use after the expiration date on the label
• Dispose of unused or expired medication according to local regulations or as directed by your veterinarian or pharmacist

Use and administration

• Use Revolution Plus only as directed by a veterinarian and follow the label instructions exactly; the medication should not be stopped and doses should not be skipped unless directed to do so by a veterinarian
• Verify that your pet’s species, age, and weight match the prescribed dose
• Do not give Revolution Plus to a cat with a known allergy to sarolaner, selamectin, or any other ingredients listed
• Do not use Revolution Plus in dogs

Overdosage

Contact your veterinarian or a poison control center immediately if your cat receives more than the prescribed amount of Revolution Plus.

Talk to your vet

Before starting Revolution Plus, your vet needs to know if your cat has ever had:

• Seizures or other neurological symptoms
• A previous adverse reaction to sarolaner or selamectin

When prescribing Revolution Plus, your vet needs to be aware of every medication and supplement your cat receives, including over-the-counter products. This information helps prevent drug interactions, avoids duplicate therapies, and guides safe dosing and monitoring. It’s also important to let your vet know if your cat is pregnant, nursing, or you plan to breed your cat.

Accidental ingestion by other pets or people

Veterinary prescription medications are directly prescribed for an individual pet. Before prescribing a medication, a vet can take into account their species, weight, age, physical exam results, and previously existing conditions, among other details. It’s unsafe to give a veterinary prescription to a human or to an animal other than the pet it’s prescribed for.

If another pet of any species, including another cat, accidentally receives or ingests the medication, contact a veterinarian, physician, or poison control center immediately for advice.

For complete safety and handling information, including situations when it might be harmful to use this medication, see the package insert for the specific product containing sarolaner or selamectin.

Emergency contacts:

• Pet Emergency: Contact your local emergency veterinary clinic
• Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661 (fee may apply)
• ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 (fee may apply)
• Human Poison Control: Contact your local poison control center or emergency services
• FDA Adverse Event Reporting: Report suspected adverse reactions to the FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine at 1-888-FDA-VETS or online at www.fda.gov/reportanimalae
• To report a suspected adverse reaction to a veterinary drug in Canada, contact the Veterinary Drugs Directorate (VDD) by calling 1-877-838-7322 or emailing pv-vet@hc-sc.gc.ca
• Manufacturer: Contact Zoetis Services at: - Canada: 800-461-0917 - US: 1-888-Zoetis1 (1-888-963-8471) - UK: 0345 300 8034 - or visit https://www.zoetis.com/contact-us

If a dose is missed, it can be given as soon as possible and then continued on the regular monthly schedule from there. Double doses or extra doses should not be given.

Based on your pet’s individual circumstance and condition, your vet may recommend other kinds of medications and products in addition to or in place of Revolution Plus. To make an informed decision, always discuss side effects, long-term effects, and ease of administration with your vet.

Alternative or additional treatments include:

• Prescription oral and topical (spot-on) medications
• Over-the-counter medications
• Topical treatments

Each product has different advantages and disadvantages and plays different roles in parasite treatment and prevention. Talk to a veterinarian to determine which options are right for you and your unique situation.

When exposed to or infested with parasites like fleas, ticks, intestinal worms, or mosquitoes, a cat may be at risk for other conditions or diseases. Some examples of commonly associated conditions and diseases include:

• Flea allergy dermatitis
• Atopic dermatitis
• Tapeworm
• Heartworm disease
• Gastrointestinal issues
• Anemia
• Respiratory issues

If needed, your vet can recommend additional or alternative treatments.

• If anything unexpected happens when your cat is taking this medication, contact a veterinarian
• Revolution Plus should be used only for the pet it was prescribed for, and only for the specific condition your veterinarian intended
• Follow the exact dosing instructions; never adjust the dose, split doses, or share the medication with other pets

• Zoetis: Revolution Plus Prescribing Information
• Zoetis: Revolution Plus Satisfaction Guarantee Programs | For Animal Healthcare Professionals
• Zoetis: Love Revolution Plus | For Animal Healthcare Professionals
• Zoetis: When the Great Outdoors Come Indoors: Parasite Protection for Indoor and Outdoor Cats | For Animal Healthcare Professionals
• Zoetis: Revolution Plus for Pet Owners | Zoetis Petcare
• PubMed: Efficacy and safety of a combination of selamectin plus sarolaner for the treatment and prevention of flea infestations and the treatment of ear mites in cats presented as veterinary patients in the United States

This product information is based on FDA-approved labeling. For the most current prescribing information, safety updates, and regulatory status, consult the official product labeling or contact the manufacturer directly.

This educational content was developed independently by our veterinary editorial team without financial compensation, input, or approval from any pharmaceutical manufacturer. All information is based solely on FDA-approved labeling, published scientific literature, and independent veterinary professional judgment. While our organization may have separate business relationships with pharmaceutical companies, these do not influence our editorial content or medical recommendations.