We have unfortunately seen an increase in tick cases here at the clinic where the animals have not been on any kind of tick prevention, or the prevention has not been started yet. The ticks are already extremely active, and paralysis ticks can be found in the whole of Bega Valley. If you are unsure of what tick prevention to use, please call our clinic or come in and have a chat about the different options. Please also check your animals thoroughly for any ticks daily.

Early vague stages of tick paralysis can include the following symptoms:

• Lethargy
• Reduced appetite
• Occasional vomiting

If you see any of these symptoms, search your pets for ticks immediately and contact your vet, as from these initial symptoms their condition can rapidly deteriorate.

Other symptoms of tick paralysis include:

• A change in the sound of the bark or meow. For example, becoming softer or changes in pitch.
• Cannot blink. If ticks become attached near the eyes the eyelids can become paralysed which means they are unable to blink. This can then lead to the eyes drying out and becoming damaged.
• Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing. As the paralysis advances the muscles used in breathing become weak. Heavy breathing can occur, this can involve panting, noisy breathing and at times grunting and coughing.
• Change in heart rhythm or rate.
• Excessive drooling. Paralysis can lead to difficulty swallowing which lead to a build-up of fluid in the mouth and throat.
• Wobbly gait, which often starts off from the back legs.
• Reluctant to move, stand or jump.
• Completely paralysed.