Overview: A dangerous spike in tick paralysis across SE Queensland
Across Southeast Queensland, veterinary clinics report a concerning surge in tick paralysis cases among dogs and cats. The rise—fuelled by unseasonably warm weather and a dip in routine preventative care—has pushed clinics to capacity and left many pet owners anxious about the wellbeing of their companions. One notable case is Hanuman, a one-and-a-half-year-old cavoodle who required urgent emergency care after rapid paralysis. His story mirrors countless others that are unfolding in the Gold Coast, Brisbane, and Ipswich regions.
What is tick paralysis and why is it so dangerous?
Paralysis ticks attach to animals, feeding on their blood and releasing a neurotoxin that can cause rapid deterioration. If untreated, paralysis can progress to life-threatening levels, necessitating intensive care and specialized treatment. Early recognition and rapid veterinary intervention dramatically improve the chances of recovery.
Ticks range from 1mm to 10mm depending on age and blood intake, looking like tiny spiders with pale bodies that darken as they feed. The sudden spike in cases suggests more ticks are active in common pet habitats, especially during warmer periods.
Regional impact and hotspots
AWLQ (Animal Welfare League Queensland) reports a sharp rise in cases across the Gold Coast, Brisbane, and Ipswich. The Gold Coast clinic alone logged 33 tick paralysis cases in September, with 14 in one week and a mortality rate of about 43 percent. Brisbane has seen 12 cases since August, and Ipswich reports 10 cases with no deaths yet recorded in that window. The surge is most acute in specific postcodes, including 4211, 4209, 4213, 4270, and 4305.
Cost, treatment and what “prevention” really costs
When paralysis occurs, the prognosis depends on how quickly a vet can administer tick antiserum and provide supportive care, often including 24-hour monitoring and mechanical ventilation. Treatments can run into thousands of dollars and require ongoing ICU care. By contrast, prevention is affordable and highly effective. Options include tick collars, oral medications, and spot-on preventatives, typically costing less than $100 for months of protection.
Dr. Dia Charalambous of AWLQ emphasizes prevention as the most reliable path to avoiding heartbreak and expensive treatment. “Prevention is a lot better and cheaper than cure,” she says, urging pet owners to stay up-to-date with preventatives and perform daily checks.
How to spot tick paralysis early
Look for a combination of warning signs: vomiting or dry retching, lethargy, loss of appetite, excessive drooling, coughing or heavy panting, a wobbly gait, and hind-limb weakness that may progress to paralysis. Ticks are often found in bushland and scrubby areas, so avoidance of such habitats can reduce risk. Early detection is crucial because when paralysis begins, outcomes improve with swift antiserum treatment and supportive care.
Steps you can take now
- Keep tick preventatives consistently up to date for all dogs and cats.
- Inspect pets daily, especially after outdoor time, and remove ticks promptly using a tick removal tool or fine-tipped tweezers.
- Do not burn or smother ticks; preserve the tick for identification if possible.
- If you notice symptoms or find a tick, seek veterinary care immediately.
Hanuman’s story: A stark reminder of prevention’s value
Hanuman was brought to the Gold Coast clinic in a severely paralysed state and required urgent care before transferring to a 24-hour emergency facility. He spent a week in intensive treatment and survived, but his owner describes the ordeal as “extremely stressful and emotional.” The case illustrates how quickly paralysis can progress and why preventative measures matter every day.
Bottom line for pet owners
The current tick paralysis surge is a call to action for pet owners in SE Queensland. Regular tick prevention, prompt daily checks, and rapid veterinary attention at the first sign of trouble can save lives and avoid costly, emotionally draining emergencies. If you’re unsure about which preventive option to choose, visit your local veterinary clinic or trusted pet store for professional guidance. The cost of prevention is minimal compared with the expense and heartbreak of treating paralysis.
