Tick Paralysis in Cats: Signs, symptoms and what Australian pet owners need to know

Tick paralysis is one of the most serious seasonal health risks for pets in Australia. While many people associate ticks with dogs, cats are also at risk – especially in tick-prone coastal regions of NSW, QLD and parts of Victoria.

Petcover’s Superior and Mid-Range plans cover illness-related veterinary expenses, including treatment for tick paralysis in cats.

So what is tick paralysis?

Tick paralysis is caused by a toxin released in the saliva of the paralysis tick (commonly Ixodes holocyclus). As the tick feeds, it releases a neurotoxin that affects the nervous system, leading to weakness and potentially life-threatening respiratory complications.

Without urgent veterinary treatment, tick paralysis can become fatal.

Signs of tick paralysis in cats

Symptoms can develop quickly and often worsen over 24-72 hours. Watch for:

1. Weakness or wobbliness (often starting in the hind legs)

One of the earliest and most common signs is weakness in the back legs. Your cat may:

• Stumble or appear unsteady
• Struggle to jump
• Seem “drunk” when walking

2. Lethargy or reluctance to move

Cats with tick paralysis often:

• Hide more than usual
• Avoid movement
• Seem unusually tired or withdrawn
  

In severe cases, complete paralysis can occur.

3. Dilated pupils & weak reflexes

You may notice:

• Enlarged pupils
• Reduced blinking
• Slower responses to touch or sound
  

These neurological signs indicate the toxin is affecting the nervous system.

4. Loss of appetite

A normally food-motivated cat suddenly refusing food can be an early red flag – especially during tick season.

5. Gagging or difficulty Swallowing

Tick paralysis can impact throat muscles, leading to:

• Gagging
• Regurgitation
• Trouble swallowing food or water
  

6. Laboured or difficult breathing (Emergency sign)

If the toxin progresses, it can affect the muscles responsible for breathing. This is a medical emergency.

Seek immediate veterinary care if your cat shows:

• Rapid breathing
• Open-mouth breathing
• Noisy breathing
• Blue or pale gums

What to do if you suspect tick paralysis

Tick paralysis is always urgent.

1. Search carefully for ticks – especially around the head, neck, ears, lips and between toes.
2. Do not wait for symptoms to worsen.
3. Contact your vet or nearest emergency hospital immediately.

Even if you cannot find a tick, your vet can perform a full examination.

Tick season in Australia

While ticks are most active during warmer months (spring and summer), cases can occur year-round in some regions. If you live in coastal NSW or Queensland, regular tick prevention is essential – even for indoor cats, as ticks can be carried inside on clothing or other pets.

Prevention tips for cat Owners

• Use vet-recommended tick prevention products
• Perform daily tick checks during peak season
• Keep grass trimmed and gardens tidy
• Be cautious after bushland visits

Prevention is far more affordable – and far less stressful – than emergency treatment.

The Cost of Tick Paralysis Treatment

Treatment for tick paralysis can involve:

• Hospitalisation
• Tick antiserum
• Oxygen therapy
• IV fluids
• Ongoing monitoring

Costs can quickly run into thousands of dollars, depending on severity and recovery time.

That’s why having pet insurance in place before illness or injury occurs is so important.

How Petcover Supports Australian Pet Owners

At Petcover Australia, we understand how frightening emergencies like tick paralysis can be.

Our pet insurance policies are designed to help reduce the financial stress of unexpected vet bills, so you can focus on your cat’s recovery – not the cost.

Depending on your level of cover, benefits may include:

• Eligible veterinary fees
• Diagnostic tests
• Emergency treatment
• Referral to specialist hospitals

Because when your pet needs urgent care, every minute matters.

Tick paralysis can escalate quickly – but early detection saves lives.

If your cat shows weakness, lethargy, difficulty swallowing, or breathing changes, seek veterinary care immediately.

And if you’re not yet covered, consider putting protection in place today – because the unexpected rarely comes with a warning.