Oral and Dental Examination Findings in a Family of Zoo Suricates (Suricata Suricatta)

Abstract

Although similar oral and dental diseases as seen in dogs, cats, ferrets, and other carnivores are expected in suricates, published data on their oral and dental diseases are rare. The objective of this report is therefore to describe oral and dental examination findings in a family of zoo suricates. In this cross-sectional clinical study, detailed oral and dental examination and full-mouth dental radiographs were performed in 6 suricates undergoing general anesthesia for their regular annual wellness check. Attrition/abrasion was commonly observed less so were dental fractures, but both conditions were found to be associated with endodontic disease. Periodontal disease of different stages was also commonly observed. As expected, dental radiography was essential to determine dental anatomy, to accurately diagnose oral and dental diseases, and to plan treatment. This report illustrates that several painful oral and dental diseases can affect suricates in captivity. Therefore, thorough oral and dental examination supported by dental radiography under general anesthesia is warranted also in these animals as a part of their annual wellness checks.