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Updated: Nov 16, 2025
Biosensor for Detection of Antibiotic Resistant Staphylococcus Bacteria
Published on: May 8, 2013
Prevalence and antimicrobial resistance of Staphylococcus species isolated from cats and dogs
Hiam R Elnageh1, Murad A Hiblu2, Mohamed Salah Abbassi3
1Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tripoli, Tripoli, Libya.
Background:
Methicillin-resistant staphylococci (MRS) are an emerging global problem with serious public health concern.
Aims:
This study investigated the prevalence and antimicrobial susceptibility of commensal Staphylococcus species isolated from healthy and clinical cats and dogs.
Methods:
Nasal swab samples were collected from animals and processed using selective and semi-selective mediums. Presumptive isolates were subjected to biochemical testing and analyzed using the Phoenix automated identification and susceptibility testing system. PCRs protocols were used to screen for mecA and pvl genes.
Results:
In total, 151 pets (103 cats and 48 dogs) were enrolled, of which 14 dogs (29%) and 24 cats (23%) were colonized with various Staphylococcus species mainly originated from healthy animals. A total of 38 staphylococci isolates were collected and distributed between 24 coagulase-negative and 14 coagulase-positive staphylococci. Only 13 staphylococci strains were identified as MRS, out of which only five isolates expressed that the mecA gene exclusively originated from healthy pets.
Conclusion:
This is the first study reporting the prevalence and colonization status of staphylococci species and MRS strains isolated from cats and dogs in Libya. The study reports important information of medical and clinical importance on antimicrobial and multidrug resistance of different staphylococci strains, particularly the coagulase negative species.
Insights
Methicillin-resistant staphylococci (MRS) were found in healthy cats and dogs in Libya. This study highlights the prevalence and antimicrobial resistance of these staphylococci species in pets.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Microbiology
- Antimicrobial Resistance
- One Health
Background:
- Methicillin-resistant staphylococci (MRS) pose a significant global public health threat.
- Understanding MRS prevalence in companion animals is crucial for public health surveillance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of Staphylococcus species and MRS in cats and dogs in Libya.
- To assess the antimicrobial susceptibility of isolated staphylococci strains.
Main Methods:
- Nasal swabs collected from 151 cats and dogs.
- Isolation and identification using selective media and biochemical tests.
- Antimicrobial susceptibility testing and PCR for mecA and pvl genes.
Main Results:
- Staphylococcus species colonized 23% of cats and 29% of dogs.
- 13 MRS strains were identified, with 5 mecA-positive isolates from healthy pets.
- Coagulase-negative staphylococci were predominant.
Conclusions:
- First report on staphylococci and MRS prevalence in Libyan pets.
- Provides critical data on antimicrobial and multidrug resistance in staphylococci, especially coagulase-negative species.
