What is Tick Paralysis? 

Australia is home to several species of ticks, but the Eastern paralysis tick (Ixodes holocyclus) poses the greatest threat to pets. When these ticks latch onto a pet’s skin to feed, they inject toxic saliva that can cause weakness and eventually paralysis. 

Tick paralysis is most common in areas where ticks are prevalent, particularly along the east coast of Australia. PetSure data* shows that cases of tick paralysis typically rise from August, peaking in October, November, and December, before tapering off in February. However, in tick-endemic areas, cases can occur year-round. 

Which Pets Are at Risk? 

Tick paralysis can affect any breed or age of dog or cat, making it crucial for all pet owners in high-risk areas to be vigilant. 

Recognising the Signs of Tick Paralysis 

The symptoms of tick paralysis can vary and may be subtle, depending on the stage of the condition and the individual pet. If you find a tick or a tick crater (the mark left after a tick detaches), it’s important to contact your veterinarian immediately, even if your pet appears normal. 

Symptoms can still develop after the tick is removed, usually when the tick has been attached for three to four days. Signs to watch for include: 

  • Incoordination and weakness: Often starting in the hind legs but can progress to all four limbs. 
  • Paralysis 
  • Breathing difficulties: Noisy or labored breathing, coughing, or grunting. 
  • Vomiting, gagging, or regurgitation: Reluctance to eat. 
  • Changes in vocalisation 
  • Eye abnormalities: Including a reduction in the ability to blink and uneven pupil sizes. 
  • Drooping eyelids or facial features 

Treatment for Tick Paralysis 

Prompt treatment is critical for tick paralysis. Veterinarians typically administer Tick Antitoxin Serum (TAS) as soon as possible. To keep the pet calm, sedation may be recommended. Vets often shave the pet to thoroughly check for any additional ticks. 

Treatment will depend on the severity of the symptoms and may include intravenous fluids, antibiotics, and other medications. If a pet’s breathing is compromised, oxygen therapy or mechanical ventilation may be necessary, usually provided in a specialised veterinary practice with intensive care facilities.

How Much Does Treatment Cost?

According to PetSure claims data from 2022 to 2024, the average treatment cost relating to tick paralysis for dogs was over $1,000 with the maximum claim amount being above $24,000. For cats, the average amount claimed relating to tick paralysis was over $900 with the highest claim amount being above $5,400. 

Prevention: The Best Defense 

With treatment costs potentially reaching thousands of dollars and your pet’s life at stake, prevention is key. There are many effective, long-lasting products available that repel and kill ticks, often also treating fleas and worms. Speak with your vet to choose the best tick prevention product for your pet. 

  • Avoid tick-prone areas: Especially the coastal strip from northern Queensland to Victoria. 
  • Regularly check for ticks: Especially in long-haired pets and consider clipping their fur to make tick inspections easier. Ticks can be very small, so examine your pet thoroughly. If you find one tick, there may be others. 
  • Seek immediate veterinary advice: If you find a tick on your pet, your vet may advise removing it with a tick remover, tweezers, or your 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, as well as under Extended Accident and Major Events policies administered by PetSure. Coverage is subject to your policy’s terms and conditions, including exclusions for pre-existing conditions. Be sure to review your policy documents, including the Certificate of Insurance and Product Disclosure Statement, to understand your coverage. 

*PetSure claims data 2022 – 2024, not indexed based on rising number of pets. 

Sources

Australian Paralysis Tick Advisory Panel 2019, Tick paralysis of dogs and cats: an updated guide to diagnosis, management, treatment and prevention, 2020 update, Animal Health Academy,  https://www.animalhealthacademy.com.au/pluginfile.php/9616/mod_resource/content/3/FINALTick_Guidelines_Technical_Brochure_LR_a.pdf. 

PetSure, Tick paralysis, PetSure Knowledge Hub, https://petsure.com.au/knowledge-hub/tick-paralysis/. 

PetSure, Protecting your pets from paralysis ticks, PetSure Knowledge Hub, https://petsure.com.au/knowledge-hub/protecting-your-pets-from-paralysis-ticks/. 

PetSure, PetSure pet parenting masterclass: how to check your dog for ticks, PetSure Knowledge Hub, https://petsure.com.au/knowledge-hub/petsure-pet-parenting-masterclass-how-to-check-your-dog-for-ticks/. 

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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