There are many different species of ticks in Australia, however the most common are the brown tick and paralysis tick. Paralysis ticks pose the biggest threat to pets. When they attach to our pets, they secrete a toxin that affects the nervous system, leading to a number of symptoms and potentially death.
Paralysis ticks are most commonly found in bushy coastal areas along the eastern seaboard of Australia from North Queensland to Eastern Victoria. Ticks are more common from Spring to Autumn, however they can occur at any time of the year.
Paralysis tick (Ixodes holocyclus)
What does a paralysis tick look like?
The paralysis tick can look different depending on whether they are engorged with blood or not. When engorged, they can be identified by their bluish, grey body and legs that are close to their head. They have four pairs of legs of which the first and fourth are a darker brown than the rest.
If not fed, a paralysis tick can be hard to identify. If you find a tick, it is vital you take your pet to the vet who can accurately identify its type and take care of your pet.
How to check for paralysis ticks
Remove any collars so you can complete a full search.
Use your fingertips to feel through your pets coat down to the skin. Ticks can be found as lumps on your pet’s skin or craters where a tick was attached.
Systematically massage your fingers over their entire coat, starting at the front half of your pet as this is where they are most likely to occur. Make sure you check hidden areas such as skin folds, lips, ears, under armpits and between and under toes.
If you think you have found a tick, part the fur to have a closer look. Nipples, warts and other bumps can be mistaken for ticks and you should not attempt to remove them.
What to do if you find a paralysis tick on your pet
If you find a tick, don’t panic. Remove the tick immediately. Use your thumb and index finger or tweezers placed close to the skin to remove the tick by twisting and pulling. Keep the tick in a plastic container or zip lock bag for identification by your vet.
Next, take your pet to the vet straight away. Even if they are not showing symptoms of tick paralysis, it is important to get your pet checked over by a professional. A quick response can make all the difference.
Common signs of tick paralysis
Loss of appetite
Lethargy
Vomiting, retching or gagging
A change in the sound of their bark or meow
Loss of coordination or weakness in back legs
Collapse
Difficulty breathing
Progressive paralysis
If your pet is showing any common signs of tick paralysis, take them to your vet immediately. Tick paralysis is a serious and potentially fatal condition that requires urgent veterinary attention. Stay calm and keep your pet calm. Do not offer food or water as pets effected by tick paralysis cannot protect their airways when they swallow (as a result of the toxin).
Reducing the risk of paralysis ticks
It is important to be aware of paralysis ticks and actively protect your dog or cat through the following:
Avoid tick habitat – don’t take your dog walking in bush or scrub areas prone to ticks, especially during tick season and keep your grass cut short to make it less inviting to ticks.
Apply tick control products – talk to your vet about tick medications that are suitable for your dog or cat. Tick medications for dogs can be toxic and potentially fatal to cats, so ensure you use cat safe products if you have a cat in your household.
Regular daily tick searches – give your pets skin and coat a thorough search even if tick control products have been applied, especially after walking in bush or scrub areas. It is important to note that no tick control product is 100% effective at preventing ticks from attaching so regular searches are essential.
Understand the common signs of tick paralysis – if your pet is showing any signs or if you have found a tick on your pet, take them to the vet immediately.
There are a number of steps you can take to reduce the risk of paralysis ticks. If you have any questions or concerns about your pet, please give us a call on 03 8784 4444.