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A Wildlife Rescue Center

An adolescent lioness saved from war-torn the war zone has received critical oral operation to remove a severely infected canine tooth caused by an abscess.

Lira arrived at The Big Cat Sanctuary in Kent, England on 14 March after a fundraising effort by director Cam Whitnall, who raised half a million pounds to support her and four other rescued lions.

The Rescue Center

The surgery was performed on Friday by veterinary dentist an experienced animal dentist, who has treated about 450 big cats.

"When I examined the lioness's oral cavity, I could see immediately the broken tooth was severely infected," stated the dentist.

He believed the dental issue was due to a injury sustained more than a year ago, leading to germs creating harmful substances within the fang.

"My philosophy is animal dental problems should be addressed in the most predictable, the most conservative and most secure manner," he said.

Mr Kertesz explained that as the lioness no longer required to hunt for food, removal was the most "logical and humane option."

The Animal Rescue Facility

The rescue center reported the removed fang was 3.14 inches in length, with the dentist having to remove a accumulated infection from beneath the tooth and close the significant opening with seven dissolving sutures.

He additionally conducted a root canal treatment on the opposing upper canine tooth, which was also found to be infected.

Briony Smith, curator at The Big Cat Sanctuary, declared the procedure was a "complete success."

She said the staff had observed "a minor swelling on the lioness's face" but it had been difficult to determine "how serious the condition was."

"The lioness will be somewhat sore to begin with, but now that the infectious materials are removed from her system, she will begin improving over the coming days," added Ms Smith.

This vital operation represents a significant step in Lira's recovery after her arrival from the conflict area.