Big Cats Require Veterinary Care for Dental Issues at Cincinnati Zoo

Monday, 19 August 2024, 05:00

Big cats at the Cincinnati Zoo are needing significant dental work, highlighting the critical care required for these magnificent creatures. An 8-year-old Malayan tiger named Zero and a 5-year-old cheetah named Barafu both required root canals after veterinary examinations revealed critical dental problems. These procedures underscore the importance of dental health for big cats.
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Big Cats Require Veterinary Care for Dental Issues at Cincinnati Zoo

Big Cats and Their Dental Health

Recently, two big cats at the Cincinnati Zoo faced serious dental problems that necessitated root canal treatments. The zoo's veterinarians, led by Dr. Jamie Berning, performed these crucial procedures on Zero the Malayan tiger and Barafu the cheetah.

Veterinary Procedures Conducted

Both animals underwent thorough physical examinations that revealed alarming dental issues. Barafu required two extractions alongside a root canal, whereas Zero needed root canals on two canine teeth.

Expert Insights

  • “We noticed fractures and pulp exposure,” explained Dr. Jessica Heinz, one of the treating veterinarians.
  • “In humans, you would do a root canal to repair this, and the procedure for large cats is similar.”

Study on Dental Health in Big Cats

A recent study published in the Journal of Veterinary Dentistry found a noteworthy increase in dental diseases among captive big cats, emphasizing the necessity of regular dental care and assessments.

  1. Oral examinations revealed pathological changes in 19 of 28 cats.
  2. Researchers indicated a direct connection between husbandry conditions and dental diseases.

Implications for Longevity

Dr. Heinz noted that “Dental health contributes greatly to longevity,” and the hope is that these procedures will enhance the quality of life for Zero and Barafu.

Both cats have recovered and are returning to their routine, but their ongoing care remains vital, especially considering the endangered status of their species.


This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.


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