Microbial Infections of Pet Animals Urinary Tract: Review Article

Microbial urinary tract infections (UTIs) are reported to be between the second and third most common reasons for antimicrobial use in pet animals, dogs and cats, representing 12% of all antibiotic prescriptions. UTI refers to microbial colonization of any portion of the urinary system that is normally sterile. The distal urethra is not sterile; it has a normal flora. UTIs are often caused by bacterial organisms that are part of the microflora of the intestinal tract. UTI is usually caused by one single bacterial species. Predominant bacterial species were Gram-ve bacteria, as Escherichia coliconstituted the major isolated species (about 40-50%), followed by Proteus spp., Pseudomonas aureogenosa, Klebsiella spp., and Enterobacter spp. Gram-positive bacteria such as Staphylococcus spp., Enterococcus spp., and Streptococcusspp., Leptospira and Mycoplasma spp. Additionally, fungal and viral causes play a reside role to some extent in UTIs. Diagnosis of UTIs in pets is based on clinical signs, urine analysis, and bacterial culture results obtained from urine samples collected, preferably using cystocentesis. The empiric antimicrobial treatments are often administered in the presence of clinical signs as they affect a broad spectrum of bacterial etiology associated with UTIs. Antimicrobial therapy is indicated in most cases while awaiting culture and susceptibility results to overcome the condition. Multidrug-resistant bacteria are an alarming development with significant public and pet health ramifications. Natural alternative methods can be useful as supplemental therapy choices and are much required. Cranberry is frequently used to prevent UTIs in older male dogs, but more research is needed. Prophylactic antibiotic medication, particularly for non-neutered male dogs, has not yet been shown to be significant; however, it may be of help in some cases. This work aimed to supply the researchers and veterinarians with a wider point of view about urinary tract infections in pet animals.