Jungle cat undergoes timely surgery for jaw fracture, multiple lacerations

A jungle cat found injured near Peenya, close to Jarakbandi Forest, on August 10 received timely medical care at People for Animals Wildlife Hospital in Kengeri. It underwent an intricate surgery to repair a complicated jaw fracture and multiple lacerations on its forelimb and head. Currently recuperating, the cat is being monitored and will be released once fully recovered.

Vasanth, a volunteer with PFA, discovered the cat after it had been struck by a vehicle and left by the roadside. It was quickly transported to the hospital for immediate care. After a thorough examination that included multiple digital x-rays and ultrasonography scans, Colonel Dr Navaz Shariff, chief wildlife veterinarian at PFA Hospital, recommended surgical intervention.

The cat underwent surgery led by Dr Madhav and Dr Dhanush, during which the fractured segments of its jaw were aligned and secured. Post-surgery, it was administered antibiotics and painkillers. The six-year-old cat was fed a liquid diet for a few days considering the extent of its injuries, particularly the jaw fracture.

It has been moved to a larger enclosure where a veterinary team continues to closely observe its healing. “The cat is recovering fast and has started hunting live prey,” said Dr Shariff.