**6.1.3 Specific measures for companion animals**

In colonized animals, it not recommended to decolonize animals having mucosae colonization with MRSA. And it is observed that apparently some pets eliminate the carriage of MRSA spontaneously if the re-colonization is prevented. Antimicrobial therapy is only indicated in exceptionally persistent cases or when control measures are impossible., If the infection is local in infected animals, meticulous management of the wound can avoid the necessity of antimicrobial use. The risk of resistance development, the susceptibility profile of the isolate, the severity of the infection and the presence of systemic disease (fever, leukocytosis), and the patient's underlying disease or any comorbidity must be taken into account when choosing the antimicrobial treatment. In deciding to treat or eventually euthanize, veterinarians must consider the national veterinary guidelines available.

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Preventive measures include the strict control practices of the infection in homes, particularly frequent hand washing hygiene, avoiding high-risk contact to minimize the chance of becoming colonized and isolating the animal and other pets. Gloves, masks and eye protection must be used to attend patients, as well as planning surgeries to avoid risk for infection, removing permanent urinary catheters as soon as possible and preventing complications from intravenosous and urinary catheters with appropriate asepsis.
