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Tick Paralysis Prevention For Your Pet

Introduction

Paralysis ticks (Ixodes holocyclus) are among the most dangerous parasites that can affect you pet. It is estimated that over 75,000 dogs and cats are paralysed in Australia each year and unfortunately, many die. We sometimes refer to this paralysis as tick poisoning.

This leaflet is designed to give you a better understanding of paralysis ticks plus provide information on how to protect your pet against them.

Where Do We Find Paralysis Ticks?

The paralysis tick is found on the eastern seaboard, from North Queensland to Northern Victoria. In the northern parts of Australia, paralysis ticks may be found all year round, while in the southern areas, the season begins in spring and finishes in late autumn.

Paralysis ticks are found on animals that live in or near thick bushland.

Native animals such as marsupials, birds and reptiles are the natural hosts, however, ticks can also become attached to dogs and cats.

How does the tick cause Paralysis?

The ticks sucks blood from the host animal and secretes saliva that contains toxins which are absorbed and cause signs of paralysis and poisoning.

How To Identify The Paralysis Tick

Once on the animal, the tick finds a site of attachment where it becomes deeply and firmly embedded in the skin.

When and adult tick feeds on blood, it increases in size dramatically.

When a tick attaches to the skin, the area becomes red and raised thickening or "crater" may appear. A crater is evidence of a prior tick attachment.

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