Sick Pets May Pass Drug-Resistant Superbugs to Their Healthy Owners

A new study finds pets may be passing antibiotic-resistant bacteria to their owners.

The study included dozens of sick dogs and cats and their healthy owners in the U.K. and Portugal.

Researchers tested urine and fecal samples, as well as skin swabs, from both the animals and people for superbugs.

They focused on bacteria that are resistant to critically important drugs like third-generation cephalosporins and carbapenems, which are used when other treatments have failed.

The results showed the pets and owners often carried the same antibiotic-resistant microbes.

All of the dogs and cats were successfully treated for their infections. The owners did not have infections and needed no treatment.

The lead researcher says, “Understanding and addressing the transmission …from pets to humans is essential for effectively combating antimicrobial resistance in both human and animal populations.”

Bacteria can be passed between pets and humans through petting, touching or kissing and by handling waste.

Practicing good hygiene, especially handwashing, helps prevent transmission.