Gangrenous mastitis ranks among the most economically significant diseases affecting small ruminants. In the present study, along with clinicopathological studies, the etiological characterisation and the contribution of various virulence factors of caprine gangrenous mastitis was studied. Staphylococcus aureus with colony count ranging from 106 to 108 CFU/mL has been identified as the etiological agent in 15 gangrenous mastitis affected goats based on cultural isolation, biochemical characteristics and molecular confirmation. Haematological and serum biochemical analysis was carried out in the affected goats which revealed leucocytosis with thrombocytopenia and hypoproteinemia. Phenotypic identification of antibiotic resistance revealed significantly high resistance to enrofloxacin, sulpha-trimethoprim, tetracycline, and gentamicin whereas the antibiotics cefoperazone, ceftriaxone- tazobactam and amoxicillin clavulanate showed least resistance. Toxin genes lukMF, and hla were detected in 66.7 per cent and 60 per cent of the isolates respectively. Antibiotic resistant genes blaZ (13.3 %), tetM (20 %), sul1 (13.3 %), mecA (80 %) and biofilm forming genes like icaA (26.6 %) icaD (40 %) were also detected in the S. aureus isolates. Majority of the isolates revealed significantly higher antibiotic resistance along with toxin genes and all the isolates showed biofilm formation. Biofilm forming ability of S. aureus plays a crucial role in its virulence whereas, antimicrobial resistance has a significant role in potentiating the virulence of pathogen.

Background and Aim: Otitis externa, characterized by inflammation of external ear canal, is a common condition affecting dogs worldwide. The condition is further exacerbated by infections caused by various bacteria, among which Pseudomonas aeruginosa is of critical importance due to its ability to form biofilms and produce different virulence factors resulting in chronic infections. The aim of this study is to isolate Pseudomonas spp. from cases of canine otitis and analyze their pathogenicity profiles. Study Design: Dogs exhibiting clinical signs of otitis were included in the study. Pathogens were identified using biochemical and molecular methods, and their pathogenicity profiles were assessed biochemically and clustered using K-means clustering. Methodology: This Cross-sectional study involved 30 specimens from dogs presented at the clinics with signs such as pruritus of the ear, severe pain, head shaking, foul odour, ear discharges and ear scratching suggestive of otitis externa from September 2023-march, 2024 carried out at Wayanad district, Kerala, India. Samples were collected aseptically. Isolation and identification of Pseudomonas spp., were performed using biochemical tests and detection of the OprI gene. Pathogenicity profiles were evaluated based on proteolytic, lipolytic, and hemolytic activities, biofilm production, pyoverdine production, and prevalence of elastase (LasB) gene. Degrees of association between these traits were calculated, and clustering analyses were performed. Results: Nine isolates (31%) of P. aeruginosa were obtained. Proteolytic and lipolytic activities were present in seven of the nine isolates. Production of elastase and biofilms were observed in only two isolates. Statistical analysis revealed no significant correlation between the traits, except for biofilm formation and elastase production (χ² = 9.009, p = 0.003). Clustering analysis identified an optimal k-value of 4. Two isolates with the most pathogenic traits formed separate clusters, while the one isolate with the fewest traits formed its cluster. All other isolates with varying pathogenicity factors were grouped into one cluster. Conclusion: The study demonstrated that P. aeruginosa in canine otitis exhibits various pathogenicity factors that contribute to its invasion and nutrient acquisition. These traits appear to function independently. A larger sample size with more traits under consideration may provide better clustering resolution based on pathogenicity profiles.

Gangrenous mastitis is one among the major economically important health constraint faced by goat farmers. Occurrence of gangrenous mastitis is a result of combination of host, agent and environmental factors. Alteration in any of the host, agent and environmental factors can lead to an increase in bacterial concentration and the expression of virulence factors resulting in gangrenous mastitis. The present study was conducted over a period of two years from September 2021 to September 2023. The study subjects included 30 goats affected with gangrenous mastitis, managed under semi- intensive and intensive system. The selected animals included Malabari, Jamnapari and Malabari crossbreds with age group ranging from one to eight years, parity number ranging from one to six and stage of lactation ranging from peri-parturient period, early lactation and late lactation. Information regarding the host associated and environmental risk factors were collected by a prepared proforma. Disease diagnosis was made based on clinical examination, examination of udder and milk changes. Epidemiological analysis revealed a higher occurrence of gangrenous mastitis in crossbred goats. The occurrence was also higher in the age group of 3-4 yrs, during periparturient period and in herd without proper management practices. Absence of herd and management practices like proper disinfection and isolation of animals to new shed during parturition significantly caused occurrence of gangrenous mastitis. Proper awareness regarding the epidemiological factors leading to gangrenous mastitis can help in future control strategies of caprine gangrenous mastitis. Keywords: Goat, gangrenous mastitis, epidemiology

Aims: To investigate the epidemiology and phylogenetic characteristics of Newcastle Disease Virus (NDV) outbreaks in poultry flocks in Kerala, India, during 2023-2024, focusing on the emergence of new virulent genotypes. The emergence of these genotypes can increase disease severity in poultry, reduce the effectiveness of existing vaccines, and necessitate the development of updated vaccination strategies to control outbreaks effectively. Study Design: This study was a field-based epidemiological and phylogenetic analysis of NDV in poultry flocks across various regions of Kerala. Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in Kerala from January f2023 to May 2024 in both layer and broiler farms. Methodology: Forty samples from Forty poultry flocks were surveyed for NDV infection. RT-PCR was employed to target the fusion protein gene, revealing the prevalence of NDV. Epidemiological data, including seasonal patterns of NDV occurrence, were collected. Phylogenetic analysis of the isolated NDV strains was performed to compare them with known vaccine strains. Results: NDV was detected in 5 out of 40 of the sampled poultry flocks (12.5%), predominantly during the dry season from December to May. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that the prevalent genotype XIII.2.2, identified in the samples, differed significantly from the existing vaccine strains and emerged predominantly from vaccinated flocks. Conclusion: The emergence of genotype XIII.2.2 in vaccinated flocks indicates that existing vaccines may not effectively control NDV outbreaks in Kerala. Future research should aim to characterize the genetic diversity of NDV strains and assess the efficacy of novel vaccine candidates. Practical recommendations include updating vaccine formulations to address emerging genotypes, strengthening surveillance systems, and reinforcing biosecurity measures to enhance NDV prevention and control in the region.

Canine babesiosis, caused by Babesia gibsoni and Babesia vogeli, is a significant parasitic disease that poses serious health challenges for dogs, often leading to severe systemic complications. This study evaluates the therapeutic efficacy and antioxidant activity of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) as an adjunct treatment for canine babesiosis caused by B. gibsoni. A cohort of 221 canines exhibiting clinical signs of babesiosis were systematically examined, with 129 cases confirmed through polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis. Comprehensive haematological, biochemical, and oxidative stress parameters were assessed. The subjects were randomized into two treatment groups: Group I received a standard triple therapy regimen (clindamycin, metronidazole, and doxycycline), while Group II received the same regimen supplemented with N-acetylcysteine (NAC). Group II demonstrated a significantly enhanced clinical recovery, with notable improvements in hematobiochemical parameters and a higher rate of PCR-negativity post-treatment compared to Group I. Additionally, antioxidant activity was markedly elevated in Group II, indicating a reduction in oxidative stress. These findings suggest that NAC, through its antioxidative properties, potentiates the therapeutic efficacy of standard treatment protocols, thereby offering a robust adjunctive strategy for the management of canine babesiosis. The study underscores the importance of integrating advanced therapeutic approaches to mitigate the pathophysiological impact of B.gibsoni infections in canines.

Aim: The present study investigated the clinical, haematological and biochemical profiles in cattle infected with Theileria orientalis, correlating disease severity with various parameters. Study Design: A total of 32 clinically ill, 10 subclinically infected, and 10 healthy control animals were included. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Veterinary Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Pookode, Wayanad, Kerala, between November 2023 to September 2024. Methodology: Theileria piroplasms, observed via Giemsa staining, appeared as thick and thin rods with trailing cytoplasm and annular, pyriform, garland, and signet-ring shapes. PCR amplification of the T. orientalis major piroplasm surface protein (MPSP) yielded a specific 776 bp product in clinically and subclinically infected animals. Results: Haematological analysis revealed significant anaemia and thrombocytopenia in infected groups, without notable changes in leukocyte counts. Serum protein analysis indicated hypoproteinemia and hypoalbuminemia, while liver enzymes, particularly AST, were elevated in clinically infected cattle, suggesting hepatic involvement. Additionally, serum vitamin A and zinc concentrations were significantly lower in infected cattle, underscoring a possible role for oxidative stress in disease pathogenesis. Conclusion: These findings suggest that T. orientalis infection is associated with multi-systemic impacts, including haematological abnormalities, liver damage, and nutrient deficiencies, which are crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective management strategies.

This study investigates the prevalence of Theileria orientalis and its correlation with climatic factors in Wayanad District, Kerala, India. A retrospective analysis of clinical cases from January 2021 to December 2023 was conducted using data from local veterinary hospitals. Biometeorological parameters, including temperature, relative humidity, rainfall, wind speed, and pan evaporation, were obtained from the College of Agriculture, Ambalavayal. The study found over a thousand cases of oriental theileriosis, with a moderate positive correlation between temperature and disease incidence. Disease prevalence varied throughout the year, with increased incidence during winter months. No significant correlations were observed with other climatic factors. These findings highlight the high prevalence of T. orientalis in Wayanad and emphasize the need for improved surveillance and targeted control strategies that account for climatic and ecological variables to mitigate the impact of the disease on livestock and local economies.

Therapeutic management of mastitis faces significant challenges due to multidrug resistance. In the present study, multi-drug-resistant (MDR) Staphylococcus spp, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Escherichia coli were isolated from bovine clinical mastitis cases and the phenotypic and genotypic multidrug resistance profiling was carried out. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were biosynthesized using Ocimum sanctum leaf extracts and characterized via UV Vis absorption, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction studies, Energy dispersive spectroscopy and Electron Microscopy. The determined minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum bactericidal concentration of the AgNPs against the recovered MDR isolates were 62.5 μg/ml and 125 μg/ml respectively. At a concentration of 50 μg/ml, the AgNPs demonstrated biofilm inhibitory activities of 80.35 % for MDR E. coli, 71.29 % for S. aureus and 60.18 % for MDR K. pneumoniae. Post-treatment observations revealed notable differences in biofilm formation across bacterial isolates. Furthermore, AgNP treatment led to significant downregulation of expression of the efflux pump genes acrB, acrE, acrF, and emrB in Gram-negative isolates and norB in Staphylococci isolates. This research underscores the potential for the development of an eco-friendly antimicrobial alternative in the form of green synthesized silver nanoparticles to combat drug resistance offering potential antibiofilm and efflux pump inhibitory activities.

Mastitis remains a paramount economic threat to dairy livestock, with antibiotic resistance severely compromising treatment efficacy. This study provides an in-depth investigation into the multidrug resistance (MDR) mechanisms in bacterial isolates from bovine mastitis, emphasizing the roles of antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs), biofilm formation, and active efflux systems. A total of 162 Staphylococci, eight Escherichia coli, and seven Klebsiella spp. isolates were obtained from 215 milk samples of clinical and subclinical mastitis cases. Antibiotic susceptibility testing identified Twenty Staphylococci (12.35%), six E. coli (75%) and seven Klebsiella (100%) identified as MDR displaying significant resistance to β-lactams and tetracyclines The Multiple Antibiotic Resistance (MAR) index of these isolates ranged from 0.375 to 1.0, highlighting extensive resistance. Notably, 29 of the 33 MDR isolates produced biofilms on Congo red agar, while all exhibited biofilm formation in the Microtitre Plate assay. Critical ARGs (blaZ, blaTEM, blaCTX-M, tetM, tetA, tetB, tetC, strA/B, aadA) and efflux pump genes (acrB, acrE, acrF, emrB, norB) regulating active efflux were identified. This pioneering study elucidates the synergistic contribution of ARGs, biofilm production, and efflux pump activity to MDR in bovine mastitis pathogens. To our knowledge, this comprehensive study is the first of its kind, offering novel insights into the complex resistance mechanisms. The findings underscore the imperative need for advanced antibiotic stewardship and strategic interventions in dairy farming to curb the rise of antibiotic-resistant infections, thereby protecting both animal and public health.

This study investigates the prevalence of Babesia gibsoni and Babesia vogeli in Wayanad district Kerala, India, from January 2021 to December 2023, focusing on the impact of climatic factors on pathogen abundance. Canine babesiosis, caused by these protozoan parasites, poses a significant health threat to dogs globally. Despite the increasing incidence of the disease, there is limited research on the influence of specific climatic variables on the prevalence of B. gibsoni and B. vogeli in Kerala. An analysis of 350 canine blood samples was done by PCR to evaluate the prevalence of these pathogens and their correlation with climatic factors such as temperature, evaporation rate, relative humidity, and rainfall. Whole blood samples were collected from dogs exhibiting clinical signs of babesiosis were examined using PCR, while biometeorological data, including temperature, relative humidity, wind speed, and evaporation rate, were simultaneously collected to explore their impact on parasite prevalence. Our findings indicated a higher prevalence of B. gibsoni (58.33%) compared to B. vogeli (41.67%), with B. gibsoni showing peak incidence in 2022. Statistical analysis revealed that maximum temperature and evaporation rate were positively associated with the abundance of both species, whereas relative humidity and rainfall were negatively correlated. These results highlight the significant role of climatic conditions in the epidemiology of canine babesiosis, emphasizing the need for further research to understand how specific environmental factors influence pathogen transmission. Such insights are crucial for developing effective strategies to manage and mitigate the impact of these diseases in Kerala.

Aims: This study aimed to detect Pseudomonas from cases of canine otitis and profile their antibiotic sensitivity pattern. Study Design: We collected samples aseptically. Antibiogram was done by disc diffusion test. The broth microdilution method was applied for biocide tolerance against chlorhexidine (CHX) and Cetyl Trimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB). Place and Duration of Study: The study period was from March 2023 to March 2024. Samples(n=28) collected were by veterinarians treating the dogs presented at Teaching Veterinary Clinical Complex Pookode and Peripheral Veterinary Clinics, Kakkavayal, Wayanad District, Kerala, India and submitted to the laboratory. Methodology: P. aeruginosa was identified based on colony characteristics and biochemical tests. Antibiotic sensitivity was estimated by a disc diffusion on Muller Hinton Agar. Broth microdilution assay for the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of biocides was done in 250 ul plate and cation-adjusted Muller Hinton Broth for culturing bacterial isolates. Statistical analysis using Orange Machine Learning Software and Jamovi statistical application. Results: Nine isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa were obtained. Ciprofloxacin was most effective against most isolates. The difference was statistically significant. Polymixin B and ceftriaxone-tazobactam had lower median zone sizes and were below the cut-off point for sensitivity. There was variation in the zone diameter for most of the drugs. The distribution of zone diameters was positively skewed for gentamicin, ceftriaxone-tazobactam, levofloxacin, ceftazidime, ciprofloxacin, and ofloxacin. Chlorhexidine had a statistically significant lower MIC than for CTAB. Conclusion: Ciprofloxacin could be a better therapeutic option for treating canine otitis caused by P. aeruginosa. Better environmental sanitation against pathogenic Pseudomonas aeruginosa could be attained by chlorhexidine than CTAB.

Feline dermatophytosis is a commonly encountered fungal skin disease in cats. Skin scrapings from cats with varying degrees of clinical signs were collected and subjected to microscopic and cultural examination. The clinical samples were stained with three different stains, lactophenol cotton blue (LPCB), Chicago sky blue (CSB) and Calcofluor white (CW) and were subjected to microscopic examination for fungal spores. The results of this microscopic examination were analysed and compared with growth of dermatophytes in Dermatophyte test medium (DTM). Based on cultural isolation, dermatophytosis was confirmed in 36 out of 82 cases tested. Comparison of staining techniques revealed that CW staining had better sensitivity (97.22 per cent), specificity (65.22 per cent) and overall agreement with cultures in DTM. Occurrence was found to be higher in kittens less than six months of age and long-haired breeds.

Mastitis is a multi-etiological production disease of dairy cows worldwide. The likelihood of developing clinical mastitis in subsequent calving is enhanced by intramammary infections with pathogens during the late dry and post-calving period. There is an increase in the occurrence of intramammary infections during early and late dry period. Thirty apparently healthy, pregnant cross-bred dairy cows were screened for the presence of contagious mastitis pathogens in the secretions taken after 48 h of cessation of milking. A total of 118 bacterial isolates were obtained from the secretions collected from 108 quarters, and identified using morphological and cultural characteristics. Among them, 50.8 per cent were coagulase negative Staphylococci (CNS), 16 per cent were coagulase positive Staphylococci (CPS) and 27.1 per cent were Streptococci isolates. Micrococci and E. coli constituted 2.5 per cent each and Klebsiella spp. formed 0.8 per cent of the total isolates obtained. The CNS isolates identified included 22 S. chromogens, 14 S. xylosus, 12 S. saprophyticus, six S. hominis and S. epidermidis each. Among the CPS isolated 11.8 per cent were S. aureus and 4.2 per cent were non-aureus coagulase positive Staphylococcus which included three S. hyicus and two S. pseudointermedius. Molecular confirmation of S. aureus, CNS isolates, St. agalactiae were done by targeting nuc, cns and 16SrRNA gene respectively. Identification of bacterial pathogens that are present during dry period can help in formulating an effective dry cow therapy. Antibiogram studies of the isolates obtained were done using in vitro antibiotic sensitivity testing method.

In Asian countries, there is high occurrence of tuberculosis (TB) among captive wild elephants due to close association with humans and other domestic livestock. The present study envisages on utilization of serological, molecular, and proteomic diagnostic assays for tuberculosis diagnosis. The usage of urine as a biological sample for the identification of biomarkers for tuberculosis forms the prime focus of the study. Seroprevalence of tuberculosis (TB) in elephants in Kerala were found to be 37.2% (n = 86) using Chembio DPP VetTB assay and nine (10.46%) were positive for acid fast bacilli using trunk wash sediment smear. On comparison with DPP VetTB assay, acid fast staining shows low sensitivity of 28.13%, specificity 100%, kappa statistics value of 0.329. The presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis was confirmed in trunk wash using PCR targeting gene IS6110, at 245 bp amplicon size and 25 seropositive elephants (78.2%) were confirmed positive. Custom sequencing and phylogenetic analysis revealed that the isolate obtained were Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The urine of six TB confirmed elephants and six healthy elephants were selected for proteomic analysis. The protein in urine was precipitated, quantified, and subjected to SDS-PAGE, enzymatic digestion, and HRLCMS analysis. Mass spectrometry data analysis revealed 49 proteins identified in TB-infected group, 68 proteins identified in control group and Galactosylgalactosylxylosylprotein 3-beta-glucuronosyltransferase was the protein exclusively present in TB-infected group. Galactosylgalactosylxylosylprotein 3-beta-glucuronosyltransferase plays a major role in glycosaminoglycan biosynthesis. This is the first report of the presence of galactosylgalactosylxylosylprotein 3-beta-glucuronosyltransferase protein in urine of elephant.

A survey was undertaken to determine the epidemiology of bacterial dermatitis in dogs presented at the Teaching Veterinary Clinical Complex (TVCC), College of Veterinary and Animal sciences Pookode, from April 2017 to June 2018. Dogs of all age groups, breeds and both sexes with clinical signs of dermatitis were included in the study. Sterile swabs were used to collect samples aseptically from the dogs that showed clinical lesions of canine bacterial dermatitis. Samples were taken for culture and isolation of bacteria was done. There was no statistically significant difference among different age groups, however the highest occurrence was observed among dogs between 1-3 years (39.44 %) and out of 71 animals, 39 (54.93 %t) male dogs were positive for bacterial dermatitis, but no statistically significance among different sexes was observed. Among the various breeds studied, the highest occurrence was noticed in Labrador retrievers (23.94 per cent) when compared to other breeds but no statistically significance difference among different breeds was observed. Identification of bacterial isolates was done based on colony character, Gram’s staining, oxidase test, catalase test, oxidative fermentative test and growth in specific media. A total of 71 bacterial isolates were obtained. Bacterial isolates obtained were Staphylococcus species (84.51 %), Streptococci (7.04%), Micrococci (5.63 %), and Pseudomonas species (2.82 %).

Out of 34 caprine dermatological cases examined, 12 were detected positive for Chorioptes texanus. Pruritus, alopecia, crusts, thickening, wrinkling, cracks and fissures on legs, axillae, inguinal region and perineal region were the symptoms noticed in caprine chorioptic mange. In affected animals, reduction in haemoglobin concentration and per cent lymphocytes were noticed, along with elevation in the values of the total leukocyte count, per cent neutrophils and per cent monocytes. Values of serum glucose, zinc and copper were normal. All the 12 cases were treated with ivermectin at 10 days interval till two consecutive skin scrapings were negative for mites. In addition, all goats were treated with vitamin A supplements throughout the period. Six goats were treated topically with permethrin spray while other six animals were treated topically with lime sulphur spray. Both treatment protocols caused recovery of the animals from clinical symptoms, however, a skin scraping after 1 year revealed the presence of mites.

Tuberculosis is known to be a disease of elephants for the past 2000 years. The main causative agent isolated from reported tuberculosis (TB) cases were Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The study focuses on the haematological and serum biochemical changes in the blood of TB infected Asian elephants (Elephas maximus). Twelve apparently healthy elephants and twelve TB infected elephants (confirmed by trunk wash smear positive for acid fast bacilli) were selected for the study. Neonates, pregnant elephants and elephants in musth were not included in the study. The study animals were subjected to haematological and serum biochemical evaluation. The data were analysed statistically. The results showed a significant increase in total leukocyte count, lymphocyte count, monocyte count, thrombocyte count and ESR in TB affected animals compared with apparently healthy animals. Serum creatinine, total bilirubin, direct bilirubin, globulin was significantly high in TB affected animals compared with healthy controls. Assessment of haematological and serum biochemical parameters in TB affected elephants aid in diagnosis and tracking of the infection.

Feline panleukopenia is a rapidly progressive viral disease of domestic cats caused by a single stranded parvovirus of the genus Protoparvovirus. The virus, owing to its ubiquitous nature, remains persistent in the environment for extended periods leading to frequent exposures in naïve cat population. Clinically, the disease is manifested as haemorrhagic enteritis characterised by vomiting, diarrhoea, dysentery, dehydration, shock and death. Previous studies conducted by Parthiban et al. (2014) and Koulath et al. (2017) detected feline panleukopenia in domestic cats of India using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) targeting VP2 gene of the virus. However, data related to the clinical manifestations of this disease in cats in India is limited. The current paper deals with the clinical findings of cats affected with feline panleukopenia in Kerala.

Today antimicrobial resistance is considered as one of the most important threat to global health. So it is very crucial to identify measures to overcome the different mechanisms of antibiotic resistance. Among the major approaches to tackle Antibiotic resistance, antibiotic adjuvant strategies play an important role. The antibiotic adjuvant combinations that attained clinical success include β lactamase inhibitors, efflux pump inhibitors, outer membrane permiabilisers, virulence inhibitors and nanoparticles. Preclinical and clinical trials on these different approaches are going on.

Colibacillosis is a life-threatening disease in neonatal calves. Severe diarrhoea, dehydration and enterotoxins produced by Escherichia coli which is the etiological agent increases the severity of the condition. Seven animals from Instructional Livestock Farm Complex, Pookode kept as control population. Thirty calves with diarrhoea within the age of 28 days from Wayanad district were selected for the study. Faecal sample were cultured in MacConkey agar and EMB agar for to diagnose E. coli. All the thirty samples were positive for E. coli. Blood samples were collected for haemato-biochemical analysis. Haematology results were such that platelet count was slightly higher in test population in comparison with control population. Erythrocyte count and haemoglobin level were in similar range in between test population and control population. Total WBC count and VPRC were significantly higher in test population than that of control group at one per cent level. Serum biochemistry results revealed that significant decrease in globulin and total protein and significant elevation in urea nitrogen and albumin. But ALT and AST levels were similar between test population and control population.