Pet Birds as Reservoirs of Antimicrobial-Resistant Bacteria in Digestive and Respiratory Infections

Pet birds are increasingly recognized as reservoirs of zoonotic and antimicrobial-resistant bacteria, raising concerns within the One Health framework. However, data on bacterial diversity and resistance profiles in clinically affected ornamental birds remain limited. This study, conducted over three years (November 2022–March 2026), included 198 pet birds presenting with digestive and respiratory disorders. Samples were analyzed bacteriologically, with isolates identified by MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry, and antimicrobial susceptibility assessed using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method according to EUCAST and CLSI guidelines. Bacterial growth was detected in 87.9% of cases, yielding 249 isolates across 26 genera. Gram-positive cocci predominated (62.3%), particularly Staphylococcus spp. (33.3%) and Enterococcus spp. (9.6%), while Escherichia coli (9.2%) was the most common Gram-negative species. Polymicrobial infections occurred in 39.1% of cases. High resistance rates were observed for tylosin (71.6%), oxytetracycline (68.4%), and trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole (63.4%), whereas amikacin showed the highest susceptibility (58%). Overall, 57% of isolates were multidrug-resistant, with Staphylococcus spp. contributing most to this burden. These findings highlight pet birds as important reservoirs of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria and highlight the need for routine diagnostics and improved antimicrobial stewardship in avian medicine.