Tick Paralysis in Cats

October 27, 2023

by：Puainta

Cats, like dogs and other animals, are susceptible to various health issues, and one condition that can affect them is tick paralysis. Tick paralysis is a potentially serious condition caused by certain types of ticks. While it is relatively rare, understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options is crucial for cat owners to ensure their furry companions stay healthy and happy. In this article, we will explore tick paralysis in cats and provide valuable information on how to protect your feline friend.

What is Tick Paralysis in Cats?

Tick paralysis in cats is a relatively rare but potentially serious condition caused by the toxins produced by certain species of ticks. These ticks attach themselves to the cat's skin and release toxins into the cat's bloodstream while feeding. The toxins can affect the cat's nervous system and lead to a range of neurological symptoms. The most common ticks associated with tick paralysis in cats are the Ixodes holocyclus and Ixodes cornuatus species, found in certain regions of Australia and other parts of the world. The North Shore and Northern Beaches are particularly affected. Ticks have very few predators. The life cycle involves 3 hosts and 4 stages.

Tick Life Cycle

The tick life cycle consists of several stages, and it typically includes four main phases: egg, larva, nymph, and adult. Ticks are arachnids, closely related to spiders and scorpions, and they go through a process called metamorphosis as they develop from one stage to the next.

Egg

The tick life cycle begins when an adult female tick lays a batch of eggs, usually in the environment where the tick lives, such as tall grass, shrubs, or wooded areas. The number of eggs can vary by tick species but can range from a few hundred to several thousand.

Larva

Once the eggs hatch, the newly emerged ticks are called larvae. Larvae typically have six legs. They must find a host for their first blood meal to continue developing. Larval ticks are often quite small and may attach to small mammals, birds, or sometimes reptiles.

Nymph

After feeding on the host's blood during the larval stage, the tick molts and becomes a nymph. Nymphs have eight legs, like adult ticks, but they are smaller and sexually immature. They also require a blood meal to progress to the next stage. Nymphs attach to a larger host, such as a mammal or bird, and feed on its blood.

Adult

After feeding and molting again, the nymph becomes an adult tick. Adult ticks have eight legs and are sexually mature. They must find a host for their final blood meal, and this meal is essential for reproduction. Male and female adult ticks often mate while on the host animal, and the female then lays eggs to start the cycle anew.

Tick Life Cycle

Related: Ticks in Cats

Symptoms of Tick Paralysis in Cats

The symptoms of tick paralysis in cats typically begin to manifest several days after the tick has attached itself to the cat. Here are some common symptoms to watch out for:

The cat may appear unsteady on its feet and have trouble walking or standing.
Affected cats may become increasingly lethargic and less interested in their usual activities.
Muscle tremors or shaking can occur in cats with tick paralysis.
Difficulty swallowing or eating.
In severe cases, tick paralysis can affect the muscles involved in breathing, leading to respiratory distress.
In advanced stages of tick paralysis, affected cats may become partially or completely paralyzed.

Stages of Tick Paralysis in Cats

Veterinarians in Australia have introduced a comprehensive four-stage categorization system to assess cases of tick paralysis in cats. As the condition advances, affected felines progress through the subsequent stages:

Stage 1: Muscles exhibit weakness, yet the cat retains the ability to walk and stand.
Stage 2: The cat loses the capacity to walk but can still maintain a standing posture.
Stage 3: Standing becomes impossible, but the cat can sit up.
Stage 4: The cat is unable to sit up and remains in a flat position.

Cats in Stage 3 and 4 are considered to have a less favorable prognosis. It's worth noting that some cats may only display respiratory symptoms without evident motor impairments.

How Do Ticks Cause Paralysis (Cat Poisoning) in Cats?

As the tick feeds on the cat's blood, it releases neurotoxins into the bloodstream. In severe cases, it can progress to paralysis, difficulty breathing, and even death if left untreated.
The toxin is presumed to travel from the attachment site via the lymph to the systemic circulation and then to all areas of the body, where it has a direct effect on cellular potassium channels and thus on intracellular calcium levels. However, primary hypoventilation is the main cause of death in most severe cases, in which alveolar disease may also be present.

Risk factors for tick paralysis in cats include:

Geographic Location
Time of Year
Age and Health Status

Tick paralysis is more common in certain regions where specific tick species that transmit the toxin are prevalent. These ticks are found in various parts of North America, Australia, and other areas.

Tick activity varies by season, mainly in spring and early summer, increasing the likelihood of exposure to ticks and tick paralysis.

Young kittens, elderly cats, and cats with weakened immune systems may be more susceptible to the effects of tick toxins.

How to Treat Tick Paralysis in Cats?

Tick paralysis is a potentially serious condition in cats caused by certain types of ticks. These ticks produce toxins that can affect a cat's nervous system and lead to paralysis. If you suspect your cat has tick paralysis, it's crucial to seek immediate veterinary care. Here's what you can do:

Remove the Tick

Safely remove the tick from your cat's body using fine-tipped tweezers or a tick removal tool. Grasp the tick as close to the skin's surface as possible and pull it out gently but firmly. Avoid squeezing the tick's body, as this can inject more toxins into your cat. Be sure to wear gloves to protect yourself.

Supportive Care

The primary treatment for tick paralysis in cats is the removal of all ticks from the cat's body. Additionally, your veterinarian may provide supportive care, such as:

Intravenous fluids to maintain hydration and electrolyte balance.
Medications to control pain and inflammation.
Assistance with breathing if respiratory muscles are affected.
Monitoring your cat's vital signs, including heart rate and respiratory rate.

Tick Antitoxin Serum

The preferred treatment for tick paralysis, known as tick antitoxin serum (TAS), is available exclusively in Australia. TAS functions similarly to tetanus antitoxin and should be administered as early as possible in the course of the disease since later top-up doses are ineffective.

For cats, a minimal dosage of 0.1–1 mL/kg should be administered slowly via intravenous (IV) injection over a period of at least 20 minutes to prevent any potential shock reactions. It's worth noting that available data indicate that increasing the TAS dose beyond 0.1 mL/kg does not impact mortality rates or hasten recovery.

In most cases, except those involving Ixodes holocyclus ticks, the removal of all ticks typically leads to noticeable improvement within 24 hours, with complete recovery achieved within 72 hours. Failure to remove ticks may result in death due to respiratory paralysis within 1–5 days.

How Long Can A Tick Live On A Cat?

Ticks feed by attaching themselves to a host and feeding on the host's blood. The time it takes for a tick to complete its feeding depends on the tick species and its life stage. Some ticks can feed for several days to a week or more.

Environmental factors, such as temperature and humidity, can affect a tick's lifespan. Ticks are more active and tend to feed more in warm and humid conditions. Cold or dry conditions may slow down their activity and feeding.

How to Prevent Tick Paralysis in Cats?

Preventing tick paralysis in cats involves a combination of strategies to minimize your cat's exposure to ticks and promptly remove any ticks that do attach. Here are some steps you can take to help prevent tick paralysis in cats:

1. Use Tick Prevention Products

Consult your veterinarian to determine the most appropriate tick prevention products for your cat. There are various options, including topical treatments, oral medications, and collars.

Ensure you use a product that is specifically labeled for use in cats, as some tick preventatives designed for dogs can be toxic to cats.

Permethrin is a synthetic pyrethroid commonly found in many dog flea and tick control products. It is highly toxic to cats and can lead to symptoms such as tremors, seizures, drooling, vomiting, and even death if applied to a cat or if a cat comes into contact with a recently treated dog.

Here are some of the active ingredients safely found in tick repellents for cats:

Fipronil
Imidacloprid
Selamectin

2. Conduct Regular Tick Checks

Check your cat for ticks regularly, especially if they spend time outdoors or in areas known to have tick populations.
Pay close attention to areas where ticks commonly attach, such as the head, neck, ears, and between the toes.
Use fine-tipped tweezers or a tick removal tool to safely remove any ticks you find.

Conclusion

Tick paralysis in cats is a potentially serious condition that can cause a range of symptoms, from weakness and difficulty walking to labored breathing and vomiting. Timely diagnosis and treatment are essential for a successful recovery. By taking preventive measures and regularly checking your cat for ticks, you can help reduce the risk of tick paralysis and ensure a happy, healthy life for your feline companion. If you suspect your cat may be suffering from tick paralysis, don't hesitate to seek professional veterinary care for proper diagnosis and treatment.