Paralysis tick in Australia: signs, risks and prevention
Introduction
Paralysis ticks are a serious threat for dogs and cats in parts of Australia, especially along the east coast. Early action saves lives. Know the signs, check your pet daily in risk areas, and use proven tick prevention. This guide was prepared with input from our lead vet, Dr. Feargus McConnell, BVSc.
Why paralysis ticks are dangerous
Tick saliva can affect nerves and muscles. Mild signs can progress quickly, so don’t wait for severe illness before you act.
Early signs to watch
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Wobbly or weak back legs
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Tiredness, change in voice or meow, drooling
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Coughing, gagging, or trouble swallowing
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Vomiting
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Laboured breathing
Any of these signs are a vet visit now, even if you cannot find a tick.
Daily tick search in risk areas
Run your fingers through the coat slowly. Check around lips, ears, under the collar, between toes, armpits, groin, and tail base. Long coats may hide small ticks, so part the hair and look close to the skin.
If you find a tick
Keep your pet calm and cool. Seek urgent veterinary advice. If you are far from help, remove the whole tick promptly with a tick tool or fine-tipped tweezers by grasping close to the skin and lifting straight out, then go to a vet as soon as possible. Do not smear chemicals or oils on the tick.
Prevention that works
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Use a proven tick product that matches your pet’s species, age, and weight. Dose on time.
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In high-risk seasons or areas, add daily tick searches even when using prevention.
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Keep grass short and avoid known tick hotspots when possible.
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For mixed cat and dog homes, remember some dog spot-ons contain permethrin and are unsafe for cats. Always keep cats away from recently treated dogs.
Products we trust
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Dogs: NexGard Chewables for Dogs — monthly chew for tick control.
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Dogs: Bravecto Chew for Dogs — long-lasting chew; check the label for tick protection period and weight band.
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Cats: Revolution Plus Spot-On for Cats — monthly spot-on with tick cover when used as directed.
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Cats: Bravecto Spot-On for Cats — long-lasting tick and flea control per label.
FAQ
I live outside the coast. Do I still need tick prevention?
Ask your local vet about risk in your area. Travel to the coast can expose pets to ticks, so protect before trips.
My dog had a tick yesterday but seems fine. Should I still see a vet?
Yes. Signs can appear later and worsen quickly. Get veterinary advice now.
Can I rely on daily searches instead of prevention?
Searches help but can miss small or hidden ticks. Use prevention and daily checks in risk areas.
Not sure which tick product is right for your pet and location?
Tell us your pet’s age, weight, and travel plans and we’ll help you choose — contact us.
Protect your pet with proven tick prevention. Our vet-led team can help you build a simple plan that fits your routine.
