Genomic and antimicrobial resistance profiles of Clostridium perfringens isolated from pets in China

Clostridium perfringens is a notable pathogen causing diarrhea in domestic animals. However, data on this pathogen’s prevalence and genomic characteristics in pets are limited. We collected 300 fecal samples from companion animals across two cities in China and isolated 150 strains for genomic sequencing and antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST). Our findings showed a high prevalence of two key virulence genes (VGs), pfoA (77.33%, 116/150) and cpb2 (60.67%, 91/150). Moreover, for the first time in China, we identified a strain carrying netF. The analysis of AST and genomic antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) highlighted the resistance patterns of pet-derived C. perfringens strains in China. Particularly, we observed a high resistance rate to erythromycin, primarily associated with erm(Q), which was found in 88.67% (133/150) of all isolates. This resistance rate was higher than that reported in previous studies. Genetic context analysis identified a novel plasmid group harboring the erm(Q) gene. In summary, this study revealed the antibiotic resistance and genomic characteristics of C. perfringens strains derived from pets in China, providing a reference for the prevention of related diseases and further research. Notably, these findings underscore the need for continuous monitoring of resistance trends, particularly concerning the spread of erm(Q), to lessen the impact of antimicrobial resistance in veterinary medicine.