Reproductive tract infection caused by Kocuria kristinae in an entire female sugar glider (Petaurus breviceps)

The presence of a cloaca in the reproductive tract of marsupials may predispose them to ascending infections. A 7-year-old, entire, female sugar glider presented with abdominal swelling. Whole-body radiographs and abdominal ultrasound revealed a mass in the abdomen. Initial treatment included meloxicam, buprenorphine and subcutaneous fluids. Abdominal exploratory surgery revealed a severe purulent distention of the reproductive tract with multiple adhesions to the intestines, both ureters, urinary bladder and spleen. Because reproductive tissue removal was not feasible, an incision in the mass was performed, the pus aspirated and it was flushed with saline. A biopsy of the affected tissue was indicative of chronic suppurative endometritis. The microbiological culture and biochemical characterisation revealed Kocuria kristinae. The animal was discharged with azithromycin for 1 month and there were no complications over the ensuing 9-month period. This pathogen should be considered in the differential diagnosis of reproductive tract infections in female sugar gliders.