Paralysis Ticks in Australia: Simple Protection Guide for Dogs and Cats

Why paralysis ticks matter
Paralysis ticks can make pets very sick, very quickly. Signs can include wobbliness, vomiting, a change in voice or breathing, and weakness. If you see any of these, contact a vet urgently.

Where and when ticks are common
Tick risk is higher along much of Australia’s east coast and in bushy, coastal and humid areas. Peak activity often starts in spring and can continue through summer and early autumn. Warm regions may have risk year round.

Daily tick checks
Do a quick hands-on check every day in tick season. Feel for small bumps as you move from nose to tail. Pay close attention to:

• Face, lips and around the eyes

• Ears, neck and collar line

• Between toes and under the tail
  If you find a tick, remove it promptly with a tick remover or fine tweezers. Keep the tick for your vet if you can.

Protection for dogs
Choose an application you can give on time, every time. Two popular options:

• Simparica Trio chewable tablet for dogs for broad-spectrum monthly protection, including ticks.

• Nexgard chewables for dogs for monthly flea and tick control.

Protection for cats
Cats in tick areas need cover too, including many “indoor most of the time” cats. Two trusted choices:

• Revolution Plus spot-on for cats for broad monthly protection with tick coverage.

• Bravecto spot-on for cats for long-lasting flea and tick control with fewer application dates across the year.

Water, bathing and grooming
If you use a spot-on, apply to clean, dry skin and let it dry fully. Avoid bathing or swimming during the label’s advised window. Brush the coat gently around, not through, the application site for the first day or two.

When to see a vet
If your pet seems unwell, is breathing differently, has trouble walking, or you suspect tick poisoning, contact a vet at once. Keep doing daily tick checks even when using prevention.

Simple safety tips

• Match the correct weight band and pack size for your pet.

• Use dog products on dogs only. Never use dog products on cats.

• Do not combine treatments unless your vet advises it.

• Read the label each time and set reminders so you do not miss a dose.

• Ask your vet first if your pet is on other medication, is pregnant or has a health condition.

FAQ

Do indoor pets need tick protection
Often yes. Ticks can come inside on clothing, other pets or wildlife. If you live in or travel to a tick area, consider protection and daily checks.

Are chews or spot-ons better
Both work well when used correctly. Chews suit swimmers. Spot-ons suit homes that prefer a quick skin application. Pick the option you can give on time.

Do I still need to check for ticks if I use prevention
Yes. No product replaces daily tick checks in season or in high-risk areas.

Not sure what to choose
Tell us your pet’s age, weight and routine and we will help you pick a simple plan that fits your home. Contact us.