Currently there are two forms of heartworm preventative approved for use in the cat.

Pfizer’s Revolution is a topical liquid available in single dose tubes and packaged as a 6 month supply. The product is simply applied directly to the skin after parting the hair on the back of the neck. The back of the neck is one of the only body areas were the cat is unable to lick itself, so application to this area prevents ingestion of the medication. In addition to being a heartworm preventative, Revolution is effective against fleas, ear mites, roundworms, and hookworms. Due to the ease of administration and prevention of parasites, Revolution is a very popular heartworm preventative for cats. Although a small number of patients may experience digestive upset or temporary hair loss at the site of application, in general the product is well tolerated.

Merial’s Feline Heartguard is a wonderful product, but is only effective against heartworms. The price of Feline Heartguard is usually less than that of Revolution. Heartguard is available as a semi-moist chewy and packaged as a 6 month supply. The Heartguard is meat flavored and appeals to most cats. For pickier cats, the product may be crumbled and mixed with some moist food. If you find it necessary to mix this product with food, make sure that the entire serving of food is eaten to assure the full dose is taken.