What is Tick Paralysis?

Australia is home to various species of ticks, but the Eastern paralysis tick (Ixodes holocyclus) poses a particular danger to dogs and cats, as it can induce life-threatening paralysis.

When these ticks latch onto a pet’s skin to feed on their blood, they release small amounts of toxic saliva. This toxin causes muscle weakness and, if untreated, leads to paralysis. Tick paralysis is predominantly observed in regions where ticks are endemic, especially along the east coast of Australia.

According to PetSure data from the last five years, cases of tick paralysis increase from August, peaking in October, November, and December, before decreasing by February. Nevertheless, tick paralysis can occur year-round in tick-prone areas.

Is my pet at risk?

All breeds and ages of dogs and cats can fall victim to tick paralysis. Even pets that are usually kept indoors are at risk if they encounter tick-infested areas or other animals carrying ticks.

Symptoms of tick paralysis

The signs and symptoms of tick paralysis can be subtle and vary depending on the stage of paralysis and the pet’s condition. If you discover a tick or a tick crater (the mark left by a tick) on your pet, consult your vet immediately, even if your pet appears to be fine. Symptoms can still develop after the tick has been removed, usually manifesting after the tick has been attached for three to four days.

Signs that your pet might be experiencing tick paralysis include:

  • Incoordination and weakness, especially in the hind legs, which can progress to all four limbs
  • Paralysis
  • Noisy or laboured breathing, coughing, grunting
  • Vomiting, gagging, regurgitation, reluctance to eat
  • Changes in vocalisation
  • Alterations in eye appearance, including reduced blinking and uneven pupil sizes
  • Drooping eyelids or facial features

Treatment of Tick Paralysis

Tick Antitoxin Serum (TAS) should be administered as quickly as possible. To keep the pet calm, sedation might be recommended by the vet. Vets often shave the pet to check for additional ticks.

The treatment approach depends on the severity of the symptoms and may include intravenous fluids, antibiotics, and other medications. If the pet has difficulty breathing, oxygen therapy may be necessary.

 In severe cases where breathing is impaired, mechanical ventilation might be required, which usually takes place at specialised veterinary centres offering intensive, round-the-clock care.

Treatment Costs

Based on PetSure claims data from 2022, the average cost for treating tick paralysis in dogs was $2,402, with the highest claim being $53,331. For cats, the average treatment cost was $1,859, with the highest claim reaching $20,348.

Prevention is Key

Given the high costs and the potential threat to your pet’s life, prevention is crucial. Many effective, long-acting products can repel and kill ticks and are easy to administer. Some of these products also treat fleas and worms. Consult your vet to find the best tick prevention product for your pet.

Try to avoid bushy areas, especially along the coastal strip from far north Queensland to Victoria, where paralysis ticks are commonly found. Clipping long-haired pets can make it easier to spot ticks. Perform daily tick checks on your pets, as ticks can be very small and difficult to detect. If you find one tick, inspect for more.

If you discover a tick on your pet, seek veterinary advice immediately. Your vet may suggest removing the tick using a tick remover, tweezers, or fingers by gently twisting and plucking.

Is Tick Paralysis Covered by Pet Insurance?

Tick paralysis may be covered up to the annual tick paralysis sub-limit by Comprehensive Accidental Injury and Illness pet insurance policies and may be included under Extended Accident and Major Events policies administered by PetSure (check our brand partners at Partners | PetSure), unless related to a pre-existing condition or exclusion. Coverage is subject to the terms of your policy and any pre-existing conditions or exclusions. For specific details, refer to your policy documents, including the Certificate of Insurance and Product Disclosure Statement.

Sources

Australian Paralysis Tick Advisory Panel, 2019 TICK PARALYSIS OF DOGS AND CATS, An Updated Guide to Diagnosis, Management, Treatment and Prevention, 2020 update, accessed on 18/11/20 available at https://www.animalhealthacademy.com.au/pluginfile.php/9616/mod_resource/content/3/FINALTick_Guidelines_Technical_Brochure_LR_a.pdf

*PetSure claims data, not indexed based on rising number of pets 

Pet insurance can help by covering a portion of the eligible vet bill if the unexpected happens. Because it is difficult to predict the costs of veterinary care, it can help to have measures in place to help prepare for the unexpected. Check out our partner network and explore our policy tools to find a pet insurance policy.

Not all conditions or items are covered by Pet Insurance. Refer to the applicable Product Disclosure Statement for information about coverage and exclusions.

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