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The Paralysis Tick (Ixodesholocyclus) is one of the most dangerous parasites that can affect your pet. The signs of tick paralysis can vary, but often start with weakness or unsteadiness in the hind legs, which may progress to the front legs. Other symptoms include difficulty breathing, rapid or laboured respiration, loss of appetite, vomiting, retching, coughing and/or a change in bark. If you notice any of these signs, it could indicate a paralysis tick and urgent veterinary attention is required. Call us on (07) 4033 2900 or if it’s after hours, call Cairns Emergency Vets who are open 24/7 on (07) 4015 3459.
Year-round use of effective tick control products is essential for all cats and dogs living in and around Cairns and North Queensland. While these products significantly reduce the risk, it’s important to note that a single tick can still cause paralysis, making daily tick checks an important part of pet care. If you are unsure of how to start, we are more than happy to show you how to do a thorough tick search and recommend appropriate tick control products for your pet.
Brown dog ticks and bush ticks do not cause tick paralysis, but they can cause skin irritation and also transmit other important diseases. An example of this is Ehrlichia Canis (E.Canis), which is a deadly bacterial disease spread by the brown dog tick – it’s made its way into Australia and is spreading rapidly. While there has not yet been a confirmed case in Cairns, we are monitoring the situation closely.
Symptoms include: fever, lethargy, loss of appetite and weight, enlarged lymph nodes, runny eyes and nose and delayed blood clotting. If you are concerned that your pet may be showing one or more of these symptoms, please contact us on 4033 2900.
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