Species Identification and Antimicrobial Susceptibility of Mycobacterial Isolates from Dogs and Cats

Abstract

Nontuberculous Mycobacterium (NTM) species are increasingly recognized as opportunistic pathogens in companion animals, yet data on species distribution and antimicrobial resistance remain limited. The goal of this study was to evaluate species identification methods and determine antimicrobial susceptibility profiles of NTM isolates from cats and dogs submitted to the University of Tennessee veterinary diagnostic laboratory. Twenty-nine NTM isolates (25 feline, 4 canine) collected between 2016 and 2022 were cultured and identified using MALDI-TOF MS and 16S rRNA sequencing. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) was performed by broth microdilution. Most isolates (27/29) were rapidly growing mycobacteria from skin or wound samples. Combined MALDI-TOF and sequencing identified 11 isolates within the Mycobacterium fortuitum complex, 10 as M. smegmatis, 4 within the M. abscessus group, and one each as M. mucogenicum and M. farcinogenes. MALDI-TOF failed to identify four isolates, including two slow-growing strains. AST revealed consistent susceptibility to amikacin and moxifloxacin, while resistance was highest to doxycycline (44%), clarithromycin (37%), and tobramycin (33%). Rapidly growing NTM predominates in feline cutaneous infections, with species-specific resistance patterns underscoring the need for accurate identification and AST to guide therapy. Importance StatementNontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are emerging causes of skin infections in cats and dogs, yet little is known about which species are involved or how they respond to treatment. Knowing the specific species and their resistance patterns is critical for choosing effective treatments and improving outcomes for affected animals. This study provides critical baseline data by identifying NTM species and their antimicrobial resistance patterns in companion animals. These findings highlight the need for accurate diagnostic methods and targeted therapy to improve clinical outcomes. Understanding these trends is essential for guiding veterinary care and informing future research on antimicrobial resistance in animal health.