If you're comparing Revolution and Revolution Plus for your cat, the difference comes down to one thing: tick protection. Everything else — flea control, heartworm prevention, ear mite treatment, and intestinal worm control — is identical between the two.

The Core Difference

Both products are made by Zoetis and use Selamectin as their base active ingredient, absorbed through the skin into the bloodstream to control fleas, prevent heartworm, treat ear mites, and control roundworm and hookworm infections. Revolution Plus adds a second active ingredient, Sarolaner, which extends protection to four tick species common across the US and Canada: the black-legged (deer) tick, American dog tick, Gulf Coast tick, and Lone Star tick.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Which One Does My Cat Actually Need?

If your cat is strictly indoor with no exposure to other animals or the outdoors, standard Revolution covers the essentials without paying for tick protection you won't use. If your cat goes outdoors at all — even a yard or a screened porch — or you live somewhere ticks are common, Revolution Plus is the safer choice, since ticks can transmit serious diseases and even brief outdoor time carries some risk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can kittens use either product?
Yes — both are approved for kittens 8 weeks and older, provided they meet the minimum weight for their size pack.

Is Revolution Plus safe if my cat has never had tick exposure?
Yes, there's no downside to using Revolution Plus on an indoor-only cat — you're simply paying for broader coverage you may not need. Some owners choose it anyway for peace of mind if their cat ever slips outside.

Shop the Range

Ready to choose? Browse Revolution for Cats or Revolution Plus for Cats — both ship genuine, manufacturer-sealed product to the USA and Canada without a vet prescription.