Advocate vs. Revolution for Cats: Choosing the Right Parasite Protection

As a cat parent, one of your top priorities is keeping your feline safe, healthy, and free from parasites. Fleas, ticks, ear mites, and intestinal worms can cause discomfort and even severe illness if left untreated. Two of the most trusted veterinary-recommended treatments are Advocate and Revolution. While both are effective, each has unique benefits. Understanding their differences can help you make the right choice for your cat’s lifestyle and health needs.

In this guide, we’ll break down how Advocate and Revolution for cats compare, covering their ingredients, protection range, application, safety, and cost.

What Is Advocate for Cats?

Advocate (also known as Advantage Multi in some regions) is a broad-spectrum spot-on treatment designed to protect cats against both internal and external parasites.

Key Features:

• Active Ingredients: Imidacloprid and Moxidectin.
• Parasite Coverage:
  • Kills adult fleas and prevents flea infestations.
  • Treats ear mites.
  • Protects against roundworms and hookworms.
  • Prevents heartworm disease.
• Application Frequency: Applied once a month to the skin at the back of the neck.

Advocate is instrumental if your cat is at risk of intestinal worms or lives in an area where heartworm is common.

What Is Revolution for Cats?

Revolution is another popular monthly topical treatment that works against a wide range of parasites, including some that Advocate does not cover.

Key Features:

• Active Ingredient: Selamectin.
• Parasite Coverage:
• Eliminates adult fleas while stopping flea eggs from developing and hatching.
  • Treats ear mites.
  • Prevents heartworm disease.
  • Controls certain types of ticks (depending on region and product variant).
• Application Frequency: Applied topically once a month at the base of the neck.

Revolution is an excellent choice if your primary concern is flea, ear mite, and heartworm prevention, with the added benefit of tick control in some formulations.

Advocate vs. Revolution: Side-by-Side Comparison

How to Decide Which Is Right for Your Cat

Choosing between Advocate and Revolution depends on your cat’s environment, lifestyle, and health needs:

1. Indoor vs. Outdoor Cats
   • Indoor cats may not be at high risk for ticks, but could still be exposed to fleas and worms. Advocate is a strong option for them.
   • Outdoor cats often encounter ticks and mites, making Revolution a more suitable choice.
2. Intestinal Worm Risk
   • If your cat frequently hunts, scavenges, or uses outdoor litter areas, Advocate provides added protection against intestinal worms.
3. Regional Parasite Threats
   • In warmer areas where ticks are prevalent, Revolution may provide better coverage.
   • In regions with high worm prevalence, Advocate could be the better option.
4. Veterinarian Guidance
   • Always consult your vet before choosing a preventive treatment. They can recommend the most effective option based on your cat’s health and environment.

Application Tips for Both Treatments

• Gently separate the fur at the back of your cat’s neck until you can clearly see the skin.
• Apply the liquid directly to the skin, not on the fur.
• Avoid bathing your cat within 24–48 hours after applying the product.
• Stick to a consistent monthly schedule for best results.

Safety and Side Effects

Both Advocate and Revolution are considered safe when used as directed. Mild side effects can include:

• Temporary irritation at the application site.
• Excessive grooming or salivation if the product is licked.

Apply the treatment only at the back of the neck in a spot your cat cannot lick or groom. If you notice serious reactions like vomiting, lethargy, or loss of appetite, consult your veterinarian immediately.

Cost Considerations

• Advocate: Often priced slightly lower, making it more cost-effective if you want worm protection in addition to flea and heartworm prevention.
• Revolution: Although it may cost a little more, it provides tick protection, which can be crucial in certain areas.

In many cases, the cost difference is minimal compared to the peace of mind you get knowing your cat is fully protected.

Final Thoughts

Both Advocate and Revolution are excellent options for protecting your cat from harmful parasites.

• Choose Advocate if you want broad coverage that includes intestinal worms.
• Choose Revolution if you need strong protection against fleas, mites, and ticks.

Ultimately, your veterinarian is the best person to guide you toward the right product based on your cat’s lifestyle and regional parasite risks. By choosing the right preventive, you’ll ensure your feline friend enjoys a happy, healthy, and parasite-free life.