How to Apply Big Love for Cats Safely & Effectively
The active ingredient in Dog Revolution®—also known as selamectin—is identical to the components found in cat products, though it may vary in volume and concentration in certain cases. Nonetheless, the dosage is always adjusted based on the weight of the animal.
There is a specific Revolution® product designed for cats, but it can be quite expensive. In response, some veterinarians assist cat owners in extracting the necessary components from Dog Revolution® to create a prescription medication, which can save a significant amount of money. In fact, a large Dog Revolution® product can potentially treat more than five cats to some extent.
Remember: Revolution® products are only approved for cats eight weeks of age and older.
Storage Conditions: Keep below 30°C.
What is Revolution®?
Revolution® is the first FDAapproved topical antiparasitic product for both dogs and cats.
Its benefits include:
1. Prevention of heartworm disease in dogs
2. Killing adult fleas and preventing flea eggs from hatching
3. Treatment and control of ear mites
4. Treatment and control of mange
5. Control of the American dog tick infestation
Revolution® Product Specifications:
1. 15 mg/tube, 0.25 ml/tube (concentration 60 mg/ml)
2. 45 mg/tube, 0.75 ml/tube (concentration 60 mg/ml)
3. 60 mg/tube, 1.0 ml/tube (concentration 60 mg/ml)
4. 30 mg/tube, 0.25 ml/tube (concentration 120 mg/ml)
5. 60 mg/tube, 0.5 ml/tube (concentration 120 mg/ml)
6. 120 mg/tube, 1 ml/tube (concentration 120 mg/ml)
7. 240 mg/tube, 2 ml/tube (concentration 120 mg/ml)
8. 360 mg/tube, 3 ml/tube (concentration 120 mg/ml)
Notably, the 360 mg/tube and 3 ml/tube options offer the best value for money.
Revolution® Dosage Information for Cats and Dogs:
The dosage of Revolution® is determined based on the weight of the dog. (Note: Apply one tube topically every 30 days.)
1. For dogs weighing less than 2.5 kg, the "15 mg/tube, 0.25 ml/tube" size is typically used.
2. For dogs weighing between 2.5 kg and 5 kg, the "30 mg/tube, 0.25 ml/tube" size is usually chosen.
3. For dogs weighing between 5 kg and 10 kg, the "60 mg/tube, 0.5 ml/tube" size is commonly used.
4. For dogs weighing between 10 kg and 20 kg, the "120 mg/tube, 1 ml/tube" size is typically used.
5. For dogs weighing between 20 kg and 40 kg, the "240 mg/tube, 2 ml/tube" size is usually selected.
6. For dogs weighing between 40 kg and 80 kg, the "360 mg/tube, 3 ml/tube" size is commonly used.
7. For dogs weighing between 20.1 to 40 pounds, use 2 ml (240 mg/tube); for dogs weighing between 40.1 to 85 pounds, use 3 ml (360 mg/tube); and for dogs weighing between 85.1 to 130 pounds, use 3 ml (360 mg/tube).
For cats (apply one tube monthly):
1. For cats weighing less than 2.5 kg, the "15 mg/tube, 0.25 ml/tube" size is typically used.
2. For cats weighing between 2.5 kg and 7.5 kg, the "45 mg/tube, 0.75 ml/tube" size is commonly used.
3. For cats weighing between 7.5 kg and 11 kg, the "60 mg/tube, 1.0 ml/tube" size is typically used.
How to Use Dog Revolution® on Cats:
The packaging of Revolution® products features different color coatings to represent various sizes. For instance, a bluegreen Dog Revolution® package is designed for large dogs. However, it can also be used on cats, albeit for a larger number of cats. It comes in bottles containing 2 ml or 3 ml of liquid.
For cats weighing between 2.5 kg and 7.5 kg, the dosage is 45 mg, which is 0.375 ml, meaning a 2 ml bottle is sufficient for five treatments.
Items Needed:
1. Revolution® product
2. 1 ml or 3 ml syringe
3. Sterile tubing/Tube or Luer Lock Connector/Adapter
Here are the steps to use Dog Revolution® on cats, including how to split a 240 ml/tube solution into multiple 2 ml/tube solutions (concentration 120 mg/ml):
1. One method involves placing 2 ml of liquid into a sterile tube. Then, using a small syringe, draw out 0.4 ml. It's easy to perform this operation with a needle, but remember, this is only to get the medication into the syringe; do not inject it, just use the needle to transfer the medication to the syringe.
2. You can use a special adapter called a Fluid Distribution Connector (FDC), which allows you to transfer Revolution® from the storage syringe to the syringe you will use to apply the medication to your cat. Here's how to use it: unscrew the cap on one end of the FDC, attach the 3 ml syringe. Place the cap on the other end. Remove the plunger from the 3 ml syringe, inject Dog Revolution® into it. The next step can be tricky: insert the plunger, gently invert the syringe, and remove the cap from the other end of the FDC, slowly releasing the air from the syringe. You need to leave 2 ml of Dog Revolution® in the 3 ml syringe. Finally, attach a 1 ml syringe, and you can administer a dose to your cat.
3. If you can use the entire tube, you can pour the liquid into a small bowl or glass cup. Then, transfer the required amount to the syringe and apply it topically to your cat until you've used all the liquid.
4. Revolution® is only for topical (skin) use! When applying, first part your pet's fur to observe the skin condition (especially above the neck, where your cat cannot reach). Then, apply the medication to the skin. Do not inject it.
5. Apply once a month for better prevention of parasites. Revolution® can treat gastrointestinal parasites, ear mites, and prevent heartworms and fleas.
What is the Revolution® dosage for a cat?
If you are using Revolution® designed for large dogs, the concentration is typically 240 mg/2 ml, or 120 mg/ml.
For cats weighing between 2.5 kg and 7.5 kg, the dosage is 45 mg, which is 0.35 ml.
For cats weighing more than 7.5 kg, the dosage is 60 mg, which is 0.5 ml.