By Dial A Vet Veterinary Team
Last updated: 5 November 2026
Along Australia's eastern seaboard, from North Queensland down to Victoria, a single paralysis tick can kill a dog. That is why long-acting tick products such as Bravecto have become a staple in many households. Bravecto works well when it is given on time and at the right dose for your dog's weight, but it does not replace daily tick searches, and a small number of dogs react to it.
Key takeaways
- Bravecto contains fluralaner. VCA Animal Hospitals explains it is used to treat and prevent flea and tick infestations in dogs and cats.
- The parasite has to bite to be exposed and killed, so ticks can still attach for a short time.
- In Australia, the manufacturer lists the dog chew as giving three months of flea and paralysis tick protection, and the dog spot-on as six months.
- Most dogs have few side effects. Tremors, seizures or wobbliness need urgent vet attention.
- Use with caution in dogs with a history of seizures.
- Keep checking your dog for ticks every day in tick areas.
How Bravecto works
VCA explains that after fluralaner is given, it spreads through the body. When fleas or ticks bite, they are exposed to the drug and killed. Most fleas die within hours of biting. VCA notes it takes at least 12 hours for fluralaner to start killing ticks.
Because the parasite must bite first, you may still find a tick on a treated dog. You may also keep seeing fleas for a while if there are eggs and pupae in your home. VCA explains that each flea that jumps on and dies cannot lay more eggs, so the household infestation shrinks over time.
Vets sometimes use fluralaner off label for mites, including sarcoptic mange, demodectic mange and ear mites. The Australian manufacturer lists mite control on its dog products.
Australian product intervals
Bravecto's Australian site lists:
- the chew for dogs, given every three months for flea and paralysis tick protection
- the spot-on for dogs, given every six months for flea and paralysis tick protection
Intervals differ between countries and products, so always follow the label for the product in your hand, and your vet's advice. Write the next due date on the calendar. A late dose leaves a gap in tick protection.
Giving the chew
VCA's advice for the oral form:
- give it with a meal
- make sure your dog eats the whole chew
- if your dog vomits within three hours, call your vet before giving another
- if four or more hours pass before vomiting, the dose has likely been absorbed
For spot-on products, VCA advises waiting at least three days before bathing.
Side effects
VCA notes most pets have very few side effects when the product is used as labelled. Possible effects include:
- vomiting, diarrhoea or reduced appetite
- flaky skin
Serious reactions are uncommon. Stop and contact your vet immediately if you see:
- muscle tremors
- seizures
- incoordination
- severe stomach upset
Who needs caution
VCA lists:
- do not use in puppies under 2 kg
- do not use the three-month form in puppies under six months
- use with caution in dogs with a history of seizures
- use with caution in breeding, pregnant or nursing dogs
The Australian manufacturer states its dog products are safe in breeding, pregnant and nursing dogs. If your dog falls into any of these groups, talk to your vet about the best choice.
Washington State University's MDR1 resource reports that the manufacturer tested Bravecto in dogs with the MDR1 mutation, found no adverse effects, and that these dogs are not at increased risk.
Tick checks still matter
No product is a guarantee. The RSPCA advises searching your pet's skin and coat at least once a day, even if tick control products have been used. Run your fingers over the whole body, including the head, ears, neck, between the toes and under the collar. RSPCA lists signs of tick paralysis including wobbly or weak back legs, a change in the bark, retching, coughing or vomiting, drooling, loss of appetite, and difficult, rapid or grunting breathing. Read more in our guide to tick paralysis in dogs.
When is it urgent?
Go to your local vet or nearest emergency vet clinic straight away if your dog:
- has tremors, seizures or is wobbly after a dose
- shows any sign of tick paralysis, even if they are on a tick product
- has eaten several chews at once
FAQ
Can I give my dog's Bravecto to my cat?
No. The RSPCA warns that some dog tick products are highly toxic to cats. Only use products made for cats on cats.
I found a tick on my treated dog. Is the product not working?
Ticks must attach to be exposed, so finding one does not mean it failed. Remove it, and watch closely for paralysis signs.
My dog is due but I am a week late. What should I do?
VCA advises giving it as soon as you remember and starting a new schedule from that date.
Is it safe with heartworm prevention?
VCA reports no documented drug interactions. Ask your vet to check your dog's full parasite plan.
Talk with a vet
If you are unsure which parasite plan suits your dog, or want to check whether a symptom after a dose is normal, Dial A Vet's real vets and vet nurses can help on a video consult. A dog with tick paralysis signs or seizures needs your local vet or nearest emergency vet clinic straight away. Dial A Vet consults cover dogs and cats. Book a video consult with Dial A Vet.
References
- VCA Animal Hospitals. Fluralaner.
- Bravecto manufacturer website. BRAVECTO Australia.
- Washington State University, Washington Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory. MDR1 in Dogs.
- RSPCA Knowledgebase. How can I protect my dog or cat from tick paralysis?.
Disclaimer: Educational only. This page does not replace an examination or advice from your own veterinarian. If you are worried about your pet right now, contact your local vet or nearest emergency animal hospital.