Paralysis Ticks

There are 3 main types of ticks: brown cattle, bush, and paralysis, and they all look similar. The easy way to tell them apart is that the paralysis tick has all 6 legs protruding from behind its head area, the others have legs spread over the large abdomen area ( see pictures) The brown and bush ticks may cause local itchiness and dermatitis, however, the paralysis tick (Ixodes Hylocyclus) is one of the most dangerous parasites that can affect your pet.

Paralysis ticks are found along the eastern coast of Australia from North Queensland to Northern Victoria. In Sydney they occur all year round, but the main season begins in spring and finishes in late autumn.

Ticks can be found on animals that live anywhere- a visit to bushland or the beach may increase the likelihood, but many pets pick them up in their own back yard. They can be carried into your yard by visiting possums and bandicoots which are immune to the effects of the toxin. Even “apartment” pets can get a tick – particularly if you have a balcony or open windows, with wildlife nearby, or brought in on outdoor items, i.e., sports and beach gear etc. The tick toxin affects the nervous system of dogs and cats and causes progressive paralysis which is a potentially fatal disease.

A tick will crawl onto an animal, bury its head deep into the skin and latch on using its barbed mouth parts.

When a tick first attaches to your pet it is exceedingly small and will spend some time sucking blood before injecting enough toxin to cause signs of illness.

Studies have shown that even with treatment there is a 5% death rate.

What are the Signs of Tick Paralysis?

  • Appearing wobbly, uncoordinated, and weak – this usually is most notable in the hind legs, progressing to the front legs.
  • Change in bark or voice
  • Difficulty breathing, panting, or grunting
  • Retching, coughing, or vomiting
  • Progressive paralysis and respiratory failure

Symptoms of tick intoxication start 48-72 hours after tick attachment but can take up to one week before symptoms develop.

What Should I Do if I Find a Tick and My Dog Has Symptoms?

Remove The Tick trying not to squeeze the engorged abdomen. Tick Twisters, tweezers, long fingernails, forceps, or a piece of cotton (looped around then tied with a knot to remove the tick where it is attached) may be helpful. If you are unsure how to remove the tick, leave it for the vet to remove it. If you remove it at home, keep the tick to show your veterinarian.

What Should I Do if I Find a Tick and My Dog Has Symptoms?

Seek Veterinary Attention as soon as possible. In the meantime, do not offer food or water, if your pet cannot swallow properly, this can cause breathing difficulties or pneumonia.

An antitoxin is available and works best the earlier it is given. Signs worsen over time, so even if very mild signs are present, it is important to treat this condition promptly.

Most pets require hospitalisation for several days. Severely paralysed animals can require intensive treatment including ventilator support. We can initiate intensive care at GVH, and are lucky now to have a relationship with NEVS who can continue to care for critical patients 24 hours a day until they have recovered

Animals need to be kept quiet for 2-3 weeks following intoxication as the tick toxin can affect the rhythm of the heart.

Prevention Is Better Than Cure!

Search your pet every day for ticks – even if tick preventative products have been applied.

In addition to physical daily searches, tick preventative products will reduce the risk of tick paralysis to your pet.

  • DOG NexGard/NexGard Spectra Tablet – every month, from 8 weeks old
  • DOG Bravecto Tablet – every 3 months, from 8 weeks old or > 2 kgs in weight
  • DOG Simparica/Simparica trio tablets every month from 8 weeks old and 25 kg
  • CAT Bravecto plus – apply every 8 weeks in tick season, 12 weeks in winter months
  • CAT NexGard – apply monthly
  • CAT revolution plus – apply monthly
  • Frontline spray can be used for small and under 8-week-old puppies and kittens
  • Revolution can be used for rabbits and guinea pigs