Paralysis Ticks: Where They Live and How to Protect Your Pet

The paralysis tick is one of the most dangerous parasites your pet can encounter. Found in warm, humid bushland and coastal scrub, these tiny arachnids inject a potent neurotoxin that can cause progressive paralysis — and can be fatal if left untreated. Understanding where paralysis ticks thrive and maintaining reliable tick protection for your dogs (and cats) year-round is the single best thing you can do to keep your pet safe.

What Are Paralysis Ticks?

The paralysis tick (Ixodes holocyclus) is a small, grey-blue parasite that attaches to a host animal and feeds on blood over several days. As it feeds, it secretes a neurotoxin through its saliva that interferes with the communication between nerves and muscles.

Unlike other tick species that mainly cause localised irritation, the paralysis tick can trigger a life-threatening syndrome. Pets of any age, breed, or size are susceptible, though smaller animals tend to show symptoms more quickly.

A single tick is all it takes. That's why preventive tick protection for dogs and cats should never be treated as optional — it's essential.

Where Paralysis Ticks Live

Paralysis ticks favour warm, humid environments. They're most commonly found along coastal strips, in bushland, and in areas with dense vegetation and native wildlife such as bandicoots and possums, which serve as their primary hosts.

Long grass, leaf litter, and the edges of walking tracks are classic hotspots. Your pet doesn't need to venture deep into the bush to pick one up — ticks can be present in suburban backyards that border native scrub.

Peak tick season typically runs through the warmer, wetter months, but paralysis ticks can be active at any time of year when conditions are mild and humid. Year-round prevention is strongly recommended, especially if you live anywhere near tick-prone habitat.

Signs of Tick Paralysis in Dogs and Cats

Symptoms usually appear three to five days after a paralysis tick attaches. The toxin causes a progressive ascending paralysis, meaning it typically starts in the hind legs and moves forward.

Watch for these early warning signs:

• Wobbly or unsteady back legs
• A change in bark or meow (voice sounds different or weaker)
• Excessive drooling or difficulty swallowing
• Laboured or heavy breathing
• Vomiting or retching, especially after eating or drinking
• General weakness or reluctance to stand

If you notice any of these signs, seek emergency veterinary care immediately. Tick paralysis progresses rapidly, and early intervention dramatically improves outcomes.

How to Protect Your Pet From Paralysis Ticks

Prevention is always better than treatment, and modern flea, tick, and worm products have made reliable tick protection far more accessible. There are several proven options to consider:

• Long-lasting chewables: Oral treatments like Bravecto provide extended protection against paralysis ticks for dogs, killing ticks quickly after they attach and before they can deliver a dangerous dose of toxin.
• Spot-on treatments: Topical solutions applied to the skin can offer weeks of continuous coverage against ticks and other external parasites.
• Tick collars: Some collars release active ingredients over months, providing a convenient hands-off option for long-term tick protection for dogs.

Whichever product you choose, consistency is critical. A single missed dose during tick season can leave your pet unprotected. Set a reminder on your phone, mark your calendar — whatever works, just don't let the schedule slip.

It's also worth noting that cats have fewer tick prevention options than dogs, and some dog products are toxic to cats. Always choose species-specific treatments.

Daily Tick Checks: A Non-Negotiable Habit

Even with preventive products on board, daily tick searches remain essential. No product claims 100% efficacy, and physically finding a tick early gives your pet the best chance of avoiding serious symptoms.

Work methodically from nose to tail. Pay close attention to:

• Inside and behind the ears
• Around the eyes and lips
• Under the collar
• Between the toes and in the armpits
• Around the tail and groin area

If you find a tick, remove it promptly using a tick-removal tool or fine-tipped tweezers. Grasp as close to the skin as possible and pull steadily without twisting. Keep your pet calm and monitor them closely for the next 24–48 hours, as symptoms can still develop after the tick is removed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How quickly can a paralysis tick make my dog sick?

Symptoms typically appear three to five days after the tick attaches, though this can vary depending on the size of your pet and how much toxin the tick has injected. Smaller dogs and cats tend to show signs sooner. Early detection and removal significantly reduce the risk of severe illness.

Can indoor pets get paralysis ticks?

Yes. Ticks can be carried into your home on clothing, other pets, or wildlife passing through your garden. While indoor-only pets face lower risk, it is still wise to maintain regular tick prevention, particularly if you live near bushland or coastal vegetation.

Should I use tick prevention year-round?

Absolutely. Although paralysis ticks are most active during warm, humid months, they can appear at any time of year if conditions are favourable. Year-round tick protection for your dogs and cats eliminates dangerous gaps in coverage and gives you peace of mind every season.

Don't leave your pet's safety to chance. Browse our full range of tick, flea, and worm prevention products to find the right protection for your pet — and have a chat to your vet if you're unsure which option suits your pet's needs best.