Prevalence and Antibiotic Resistance Patterns of Bacterial Mastitis in Dromedary Camels (Camelus dromedarius)

Mastitis is an economically important disease affecting milk production and quality in dromedary camels. The present study was conducted to determine the prevalence of clinical and subclinical mastitis, distribution of infected udder quarters, associated bacterial pathogens, and their antimicrobial susceptibility patterns. A total of 490 lactating camels were examined, and 1560 udder quarters were evaluated using clinical examination and screening tests. Overall mastitis prevalence was recorded as 44.08% on an animal basis and 14.62% on a quarter bases. Clinical mastitis showed a higher prevalence at the animal level, whereas subclinical mastitis was more common at the quarter level. Forequarters, particularly the right forequarter, were more frequently affected than hindquarters. Bacteriological examination yielded 168 isolates, with Staphylococcus aureus being the most predominant pathogen, followed by Staphylococcus epidermidis, Escherichia coli, and Streptococcus agalactiae. Antibiogram analysis revealed that gentamicin, enrofloxacin, and norfloxacin were the most effective antibiotics, while streptomycin and chloramphenicol showed low sensitivity rates. The findings indicate a high burden of mastitis in camels and emphasize the need for regular screening, improved management practices, and judicious use of effective antimicrobials to reduce economic losses and antimicrobial resistance.