Dental, oral and maxillofacial pathology in a wild serval (Leptailurus serval) population

Abstract

Objective: Members of the family Felidae suffer from a wide range of dental, oral and maxillofacial conditions. These conditions can cause significant morbidity and mortality. However, no studies could be found investigating the dental, oral and maxillofacial pathology in serval (Leptailurus serval). Serval are frequently kept in captivity and occasionally as household pets. Having knowledge of the pathology affecting wild serval would greatly assist in improving preventative care practices and the welfare of serval in captivity. The objective of this study was therefore to describe the dental, oral and maxillofacial pathology of a wild serval population. Animals: Thirty wild serval, which occur naturally on the Sasol Synfuels Operations property in Secunda, Mpumalanga, South Africa; were examined for dental, oral and maxillofacial pathology. Methods: Detailed extraoral and intraoral examinations, as well as full-mouth dental radiographs, were performed on each anaesthetised serval. Results: Fourteen different conditions affecting the teeth were recorded, but no oral or maxillofacial pathology was found. The most common dental pathology observed was tooth wear affecting 67% of the serval examined. Dental fractures, including complicated crown fractures, uncomplicated crown fractures and root fractures, were diagnosed in 23% of the serval. The two canine teeth with complicated crown fractures also displayed grey discolouration clinically and periapical radiolucencies radiographically. Abnormal root morphology was apparent at the maxillary canines in 20% of cases. Supernumerary roots of maxillary third premolar teeth and supernumerary mandibular premolar teeth were noted in 17% and 10% of serval examined, respectively. Other dental abnormalities identified less frequently included rotated teeth, retained deciduous roots, enamel defects and tooth resorption. Conclusion: This study indicates that intraoral and extraoral examinations, as well as dental radiography, are important aspects of the clinical evaluation of wild felines. These findings are particularly interesting as the study population represents the highest density of serval ever recorded, with their habitat consisting primarily of disturbed wetland and grassland directly surrounding a highly active industrial site. This demonstrates that even the most unexpected sectors and opportunities can be used to advance conservation efforts and to provide knowledge to assist in improving the husbandry of captive wild animals.