Distribution, seasonality and risk factors for tick paralysis in Australian dogs and cats

Abstract

Tick paralysis is a serious and potentially fatal condition of Australian companion animals induced by the paralysis ticks, Ixodes holocyclus and Ixodes cornuatus. Limited published information is available on the distribution, seasonality and risk factors for tick paralysis mortality in dogs and cats. This study describes 3479 cases of canine and feline tick paralysis in Australia using data extracted from a real-time disease surveillance program. Risk factors for mortality were identified, and maps of the distribution of cases were generated. Cluster analysis was performed using a space-time permutation scan statistic. Tick paralysis was found to be distinctly seasonal, with most cases reported during spring. Most cases were located on the eastern coast of Australia with New South Wales and Queensland accounting for the majority of reported cases. A cluster of cases was identified on the south coast of New South Wales. Dogs were found to be at significantly higher risk (P<0.05) of death if less than 6 months of age or if a toy breed. No significant risk factors for mortality were identified for cats. Some animals receiving chemoprophylactic treatment for tick infestation experienced tick paralysis during the products' period of effectiveness. There is a high risk of tick paralysis in dogs and cats on the eastern coast of Australia during the spring months. The risk factors for mortality identified can be used by veterinarians to determine prognosis in cases of canine tick paralysis and potentially to improve the treatment of cases. Daily tick searches of pets - particularly in high risk areas and during high risk periods - are recommended since the prevention of tick paralysis via chemoprophylaxis is not 100% guaranteed across the whole population.

Keywords: Cats; Dogs; Epidemiology; Ixodes holocyclus; Mapping; Risk factors; Spatial distribution; Surveillance; Tick paralysis.