(ID09) Molecular Prevalence of Upper Respiratory Tract Infection Pathogens in Dogs and Cats in South Korea

Abstract:

Background: The prevalence of respiratory pathogens may differ based on geographical regions, leading to potential differences in empirical treatment approaches. Hypothesis/

Objectives: To assess the prevalence of infectious agents associated with Upper Respiratory Tract Infection (URTI) in dogs and cats in South Korea.Animals1370 respiratory specimens from dogs and 4481 respiratory specimens from cats were analyzed.

Methods: Retrospective assessment of real-time PCR data of specimens submitted to a veterinary diagnostic laboratory for testing respiratory diseases in dogs and cats in the South Korea from January 2022 to September 2023. Molecular investigation was performed on 26 infectious agents in dogs and cats, respectively.

Results: In dogs, a total of 21 infectious agents were detected. The most common pathogen was Pseudomonas aeruginosa (26.1%, n = 358), followed by Mycoplasma spp. (24.7%, n = 338), Bordetella bronchiseptica (17.9%, n = 245), Streptococcus spp. (16.9%, n = 231), and Mycoplasma cynos (7.7%, n = 105). In cats, a total of 18 infectious agents were detected. The predominant pathogen was Pseudomonas aeruginosa (34.7%, n = 1556), followed by Mycoplasma spp. (26.5%, n = 1188), Mycoplasma felis (22.2%, n = 997), feline calicivirus (22.1%, n = 990), and feline herpes virus (13.7%, n = 616).Conclusion and clinical importance: This investigation provides valuable insights into the prevalence of respiratory pathogens in dogs and cats. The observed variations underscore the importance of tailoring empirical therapeutic approaches based on the specific pathogens identified, offering valuable information for clinicians in the region.