Objectives: Reptiles are considered an important reservoir of Salmonella species. This study evaluated the prevalence of Salmonella species in different species of gecko kept as pets in Italy.
Materials and methods: Faecal swab samples were collected from 70 clinically healthy geckos and examined for Salmonella species by culture that were then serotyped.
Results: Salmonella species were isolated from 24 of 70 (34·3%) samples. Eighteen isolates expressed resistance to ceftazidime and four isolates to ampicillin.
Clinical significance: Salmonella spp. can be isolated from apparently healthy captive gecko which should be considered as a potential source of infection for humans and other companion animals.
© 2018 British Small Animal Veterinary Association.