🐾 MRSA vs. MRSP in Dogs and Cats (2025) 🧫

By Dr Duncan Houston, BVSc

In today's world of growing antibiotic resistance, understanding the risks of superbugs like MRSA and MRSP in our pets is more important than ever. These stubborn bacteria don’t just affect humans — they can pose significant risks to our furry family members too. Let’s dive into the difference between these two pathogens and how to protect both you and your pets. 🐶🐱

🔬 What Are MRSA and MRSP?

• MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus): A common staph bacteria in humans that’s become resistant to multiple antibiotics. It primarily affects people but can sometimes infect pets.
• MRSP (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus pseudointermedius): A close cousin of MRSA, MRSP is more commonly found in dogs and cats. It too is resistant to many antibiotics and difficult to treat.

While both are multi-drug-resistant (MDR) bacteria, they each tend to prefer their specific hosts — MRSA thrives in people, MRSP in pets. However, crossover infections can occur. 🧬

🐕 How Do Pets Catch These Infections?

Infection risk rises in environments such as:

• 🏥 Veterinary clinics or hospitals
• 🏠 Homes with infected humans or animals
• 🐾 High-traffic dog parks, shelters, or grooming areas

Most pets are exposed during treatment for other wounds or infections, which gives these superbugs an opportunity to take hold. Pets with skin issues, surgical wounds, or compromised immune systems are at higher risk. 🩹

🩺 What Do MRSA and MRSP Infections Look Like?

Common symptoms in dogs and cats include:

• Red, inflamed skin or hot spots 🐾
• Non-healing wounds or abscesses
• Itching, discomfort, or hair loss
• Post-surgical site infections

However, it’s impossible to tell visually if an infection is caused by MRSA or MRSP — lab testing is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment. 🔬

🤒 Can MRSA or MRSP Spread to Humans?

Yes — but rarely. People are more likely to transmit MRSA to pets than the other way around. Transmission of MRSP to humans is uncommon, as it’s better adapted to pets. Still, people with weakened immune systems should take extra precautions. 🧼

🧪 Diagnosis and Treatment Options

Veterinarians will take swabs or cultures to identify the type of infection and run sensitivity testing to determine which antibiotics will work.

Because these bacteria are often resistant to multiple medications, your vet may:

• Prescribe special or compounded antibiotics 💊
• Recommend surgical cleaning of wounds
• Suggest topical treatments or antiseptic washes

Never stop antibiotics early or use leftovers from another pet — doing so increases resistance. 🛑

🧼 Prevention Tips

• Wash your hands after handling your pet, especially if they have a skin issue
• Clean bedding, toys, and food dishes regularly 🧽
• Cover any human or pet wounds and monitor for signs of infection
• Keep your pet’s vet visits up to date and follow all hygiene protocols

💬 Final Thoughts

While both MRSA and MRSP are serious, they are manageable with early detection, proper treatment, and excellent hygiene. 🧴 If your pet has chronic skin infections or a wound that won’t heal, ask your vet about testing for resistant bacteria.

For ongoing concerns, download the Ask A Vet app 📱 or visit AskAVet.com to connect with a licensed vet online — we're here to support your pet’s health 24/7! 🐾