Paralysis ticks are one of the most dangerous threats to pets on the Sunshine Coast. Once thought of as a spring and summer problem, cases now occur all year round.
Even well-maintained backyards aren’t safe; wildlife such as possums, bandicoots and lizards can carry ticks into suburban gardens. Ticks can also hitchhike in on hay, straw or other garden materials, so be cautious when bringing these into your yard.

As a mobile vet I help with prevention and advice. If your pet shows signs of tick paralysis, they will need urgent care in a veterinary clinic – I always refer suspected cases straight on.

What is Tick Paralysis?

Paralysis ticks (Ixodes holocyclus) attach to the skin and release a toxin that affects the nervous system.

• Signs usually appear within 48 hours of attachment.

• Symptoms can continue to worsen for up to 48 hours after the tick is removed.

• Without treatment, tick paralysis can be fatal.

Early Signs to Watch For

Your pet may show only one or two of these:

• Change in bark or meow

• Weak or wobbly back legs

• Coughing, gagging or retching

• Vomiting or regurgitation (common in dogs)

• Drooling or trouble swallowing

• Facial droop (lip, eyelid or ear)

Advanced signs: paralysis spreading forward, breathing difficulties or noisy breathing, blue or pale gums, collapse.

Act fast: Don’t wait for more symptoms. Just one sign of tick paralysis is an emergency and needs urgent treatment at a vet clinic.

Why Treatment Must Be In-Clinic

Tick paralysis is an emergency. I do not assess suspected cases at home – they must go directly to a veterinary clinic for treatment.

In-clinic care may include:

• Tick antiserum to neutralise the toxin

• Oxygen support if breathing muscles are affected

• IV fluids and medications

• Close monitoring, as signs can worsen after removal

This level of care is not possible at home.

What To Do If You Find a Tick

• Remove it immediately with a tick remover or tweezers.

• Keep your pet calm and quiet.

• No food or water until swallowing is normal.

• Save the tick for identification.

• Monitor closely for 48 hours and seek vet care if any signs appear.

🔍 Not sure what type of tick it is? See my Tick Identification Chart

Prevention is Essential Year-Round

The safest plan is prevention plus daily checks. I recommend:

• NexGard or NexGard Spectra – monthly chews for dogs

• Bravecto – 3-monthly chew or spot-on for dogs and cats

Also:

• Run your fingers over your pet daily, focusing on the head, neck, chest and front legs. About 70% of ticks are found in the front third of the body.

• Keep grass trimmed and discourage wildlife from settling close to your home.

Need Help?

📌 Book a home visit for personalised prevention advice and a hands-on demo of a thorough tick check.
🚨 If your pet is showing signs of tick paralysis, go straight to your nearest veterinary clinic.

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