Superbugs originating in hospitals are now increasingly being found in cats and dogs, and in victims of bites. The rise parallels the increasing abundance of community associated methacillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA) over the past decade or so.

Pet owners need to be aware of the potential for transmission of infections from their pets, … An increase of pet-associated infections has been documented in the literature and has paralleled the increase in human MRSA infections.

Wash hands before and after pet contact, and be wary of dogs licking your face, any medical devices or open wounds.  Be aware of your pet’s health status, and keep open wounds on yourself and your pet covered when you’re in contact with each other.

More research is needed to establish how superbugs circulate to pets, but the most likely route is via the owners. The US Centers for Disease Control in Atlanta, Georgia, agrees. “Most MRSA in humans is acquired by direct contact with other humans,” it said in a statement to New Scientist. “In most cases, MRSA in companion animals is a result of humans exposing the animals to MRSA, so pets can become colonised or infected with MRSA by contact with colonised or infected humans.”

Source: New Scientist – Warning over ’superbug’ risk from pets