AbstractBackgroundEscherichia coliinfections are common in Xinjiang, a major region of cattle and sheep breeding in China. Therefore, strategies are required to controlE. coli. The aim of this study was to investigate the phylogenetic groups, virulence genes, and antibiotic resistance characteristics ofE. coliisolates.MethodsIn this study, 116 tissue samples were collected from the organs of cattle and sheep that were suspected of havingE. coliinfections between 2015 and 2019. Bacteria in the samples were identified using a biochemical identification system and amplification of 16S rRNA, and the phylogenetic groupings ofE. coliisolates were determined by multiplex polymerase chain reactions. In addition, PCR detection and analysis of virulence factors, antibiotic resistance genes, and drug‐resistant phenotypes ofE. coliisolates were performed.ResultsA total of 116 pathogenicE. colistrains belonging to seven phylogenetic groups were isolated, with the majority of isolates in groups A and B1. Among the virulence genes, curli‐encodingcrlhad the highest detection rate of 97.4%, followed by hemolysin‐encodinghlyEwith the detection rate of 94.82%. Antimicrobial susceptibility test results indicated that the isolates had the highest rates of resistance against streptomycin (81.9%).ConclusionThese characteristics complicate the prevention and treatment ofE. coli‐related diseases in Xinjiang.