Protecting your little furries from ticks is essential. They are not only nasty to look at, but they pose a significant threat to your pets. Unfortunately, ticks are a common problem in Australia. Although ticks may be found all year long, they are particularly abundant at the start of September. It is best to remind yourself to actively protect pets from ticks during this time because Spring is also tick season.
Understanding Ticks
Ticks are a parasite that feeds off the blood of a ‘host’ (your furry friend) to grow, develop and reproduce. They cause damage to the skin when they bite, creating wounds susceptible to bacterial infection.
They thrive in warm and humid weather, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions.
They are commonly found in long grass, dense bushland, pet bed and kennels.
Paralysis Ticks
A wide range of ticks can be found in Australia. Many of whom just leave bite wounds that may be susceptible to infection. However, the Paralysis Tick or Ixodes Holocyclusis is the only tick species that can cause serious problems and can be potentially fatal. Your pet will require immediate veterinary attention if they are bitten by a Paralysis Tick.
Paralysis Ticks are found on the east coast of Australia, from North Queensland down to Victoria. Native animals such as bandicoots, possums, koalas, birds and reptiles are the natural hosts. However, ticks can also become attached to animals such as dogs and cats, sometimes even humans.
The tick will bite the pet and inject a neurotoxin into the bloodstream of the cat or dog. This can cause progressive paralysis of the muscles and over a period cause single organ toxicity, targeting the cardiac system, bladder, lungs and other internal organs and may eventually result in death.
How To Protect Pets From Ticks
Avoid the Tick Habitat
Paralysis Ticks are sneaky parasites. They can wait on grassland until your pet passes through it. During tick season, avoid walking your pets in bush or scrub areas. Keep pets indoors as much as possible. Keep your lawns and shrubs short and remove compost material from backyards, this will help protect pets from ticks.
Check Daily For Signs of Parasites
Run your fingers through your dog’s or cat’s coats. Work your fingers around their head, neck, chest, mouth, and between their toes. Check for unusual bumps or sores. If you find a tick, keep looking – where there’s one, there’s often more!
Use Tick Control Products
Thoroughly research tick control products. Use tick control products that not only kill but also repel these little parasites. There are tick collars, tablets, sprays and powders available. Your vet can recommend tick control products which are safe and suitable for pets.
Your pet’s health and well-being are important. So research on ways to protect pets from ticks. Be aware of the symptoms of tick paralysis. When you find ticks in your pets, remove them right away. Take your pet to the vet along with the tick so they can identify the type of tick and treat your pet accordingly.
For more tips on how to take care of your furry besties. Click HERE.
