Paralysis Tick Update: A Timely Reminder to Protect Your Pets

Recently, our team treated six cases of paralysis ticks over a two-week period—a concerning reminder of just how active paralysis ticks can be in our region.

This serves as an important reminder that paralysis ticks remain a serious threat to our pets. Unfortunately, it only takes a single paralysis tick to cause severe illness, and without prompt treatment, tick paralysis can be fatal.

Why are paralysis ticks so dangerous?

Paralysis ticks release a toxin while feeding that affects the nervous system, causing progressive paralysis. Pets can deteriorate rapidly, making early recognition and immediate veterinary treatment critical.

Common signs of paralysis tick toxicity include:

• Weakness or wobbliness, particularly in the back legs

• Changes in bark or meow

• Vomiting or retching

• Difficulty swallowing

• Difficulty breathing

• Collapse

If your pet develops any of these signs, seek veterinary attention immediately.

Could my pet be at risk?

Many owners assume their pet is safe because they don't visit bushland—but that's not always the case.

We've treated pets for paralysis ticks that spend most of their time in their own backyard, even indoor pets can be at risk because ticks can be brought inside on people, clothing, or other animals.

Paralysis ticks are also incredibly easy to miss. They often hide deep beneath your pet's fur, meaning they may not be discovered until your pet is already becoming unwell. Even if you find and remove a tick, paralysis can still develop after the tick has detached.

Prevention is the best protection

The good news is that paralysis tick toxicity is largely preventable with appropriate year-round tick prevention.

There are a range of highly effective products available, and the best choice depends on your pet's age, lifestyle and individual needs.

For cats

• Bravecto Plus – topical treatment every 2 months

• NexGard Spectra – monthly topical treatment

For dogs

• Bravecto – available as a monthly chew, 3-month chew, 6-month spot-on, or yearly injection

• Simparica Trio – monthly chew

• NexGard Spectra – monthly chew

Our team is happy to help you choose the most appropriate option for your pet.

In addition to using preventative medication, we recommend checking your pets daily for ticks, particularly after they've been outside in long grass, gardens, bushland or leafy areas. If you feel your pet is acting unusual, please bring them in for a check up with one of our veterinarians as soon as possible!

Limited-Time Tick Prevention Special

To help keep as many pets protected as possible, we're currently offering a special on selected Bravecto products while stocks last:

• Purchase any Bravecto dog product and receive a FREE 1-month Bravecto chew.
• Purchase Bravecto Plus for cats and receive an extra pack FREE.

Don't wait until it's too late

Treating paralysis tick toxicity can be intensive, stressful and costly, but most importantly, it's something we'd much rather help you prevent.

It only takes one paralysis tick to put your pet's life at risk. Keeping their tick prevention up to date is the safest, easiest and most cost-effective way to protect them.

If you're unsure whether your pet is covered or when their next treatment is due, give our friendly team a call.

We'd love to help keep your furry family members safe all year round.