Saved from Ukraine Lioness Undergoes Essential Surgery
The Big Cat Sanctuary
An adolescent lioness saved from conflict-ridden Ukraine has received critical dental surgery to remove a badly decayed canine tooth caused by an abscess.
Lira was brought to a wildlife sanctuary in Smarden, Kent on 14 March following a campaign by director the sanctuary's leader, who collected £500,000 to fund her and several other lions from Ukraine.
The Big Cat Sanctuary
The procedure was carried out on Friday by veterinary dentist an experienced animal dentist, who has cared for hundreds of large felines.
"Upon inspecting Lira's jaw and mouth, I could see right away the damaged fang was severely infected," stated Mr Kertesz.
He thought the infection was caused by a trauma sustained over twelve months back, leading to bacteria producing toxins within the fang.
"The approach I follow is animal oral health issues should be addressed in the safest, the most conservative and safest way," he explained.
The expert explained that as Lira no longer required to hunt for food, extraction was the most "logical and humane option."
The Big Cat Sanctuary
The rescue center reported the removed fang was 3.14 inches in length, with the dentist having to remove a accumulated infection from under the fang and seal the significant opening with seven dissolving sutures.
He also performed a dental procedure on the corresponding top fang, which was discovered to have a similar issue.
The curator, manager at the facility, said the procedure was a "complete success."
She noted the team had spotted "a small lump on the lioness's face" but it had been difficult to assess "the extent of the problem."
"Lira will be somewhat sore to begin with, but now that the toxins are removed from her system, she will begin improving over the next few days," added the curator.
The successful surgery marks a significant step in Lira's recovery after her arrival from the conflict area.
