Saved from Ukraine Lion Receives Essential Dental Operation
The Big Cat Sanctuary
An adolescent lioness saved from conflict-ridden the war zone has undergone vital oral operation to remove a severely infected canine tooth caused by an abscess.
The lioness was brought to The Big Cat Sanctuary in Kent, England on 14 March after a fundraising effort by managing director Cam Whitnall, who collected £500,000 to support her and several other lions from Ukraine.
The Big Cat Sanctuary
The surgery was performed on Friday by veterinary dentist an experienced animal dentist, who has treated about 450 big cats.
"Upon inspecting the lioness's oral cavity, I could see immediately the broken tooth was severely infected," said the dentist.
He believed the infection was caused by a injury sustained over twelve months back, causing germs creating toxins inside the tooth.
"My philosophy is animal oral health issues should be addressed in the safest, the least invasive and safest way," he explained.
The expert clarified that as the lioness did not need to catch prey, removal was the most "sensible and ethical solution."
The Big Cat Sanctuary
The rescue center said the removed fang was 8cm (3.14 inches) long, with the dentist having to remove a accumulated infection from beneath the tooth and close the significant opening with seven dissolving sutures.
He also performed a root canal treatment on the corresponding top fang, which was also found to be infected.
The curator, manager at the facility, said the operation was a "total triumph."
She noted the team had observed "a small lump on the lioness's face" but it had been impossible to determine "the extent of the problem."
"The lioness will be somewhat sore to initially, but now that the toxins are out of her body, she will start to feel much better over the coming days," added the curator.
The successful surgery represents a major milestone in Lira's recovery after her rescue from Ukraine.
