PREVALENCE AND CHARACTERIZATION OF NON-TYPHOIDAL SALMONELLA IN DOGS, CATS, AND THEIR ENVIRONMENTS

Non-typhoidal salmonellosis presents a significant threat to humans, dogs, and cats.This study involved conducting Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) of Salmonella isolates from dogs, cats, and their surroundings, coupled with analysis of serotyping, virulence gene repertoire, and antimicrobial resistance genes.A total of 300 samples were collected from drinking water, feed, feces, and beddings of dogs and cats.The overall occurrence of non-typhoidal Salmonella was recorded at 13.33%, with 11.49% in cats and their environment and 14.08% in dogs and their environment.Among the cats, the highest incidence of Salmonella was detected in cat feces (16.28%), followed by bedding.In dogs, the highest occurrence of Salmonella was observed in feces (22.22%), followed by drinking water.Serologically identified strains were Salmonella Kentucky (55%), Salmonella Infantis (20%), and Salmonella Virchow (7.5%).However, WGS analysis revealed the presence of serotypes as Kentucky (70%), Virchow (20%), and Typhimurium (10%) due to differences in sample size.More than 105 virulence genes were found, with all isolates carrying genes for type three secretion systems (T3SS1 and T3SS2) and their effectors.Fimbrial adherence determinants were present in all isolates, except for isolate 148.The shdA gene was detected in isolates 156, 192, and 178, while the ratB gene was exclusively present in isolate 178.Macrophage Inducible Genes (mig-14) were found in all isolates except for 148.Antimicrobial resistance gene profiling revealed six resistance genes against aminoglycosides, trimethoprim, sulphonamides, and tetracycline.The presence of antimicrobial-resistant strains highlights the need for judicious use of antimicrobials in dogs and cats.