Surgical Management of Maxillofacial Abscess in a Malabar Giant Squirrel (Ratufa indica) under Tiletamine - Zolazepam Anaesthesia

Abstract

The Malabar giant squirrel (Ratufa indica), an ecologically significant arboreal rodent endemic to peninsular India, has limited clinical literature regarding its veterinary management. This report documents the successful diagnosis and surgical treatment of a facial abscess associated with dental malocclusion in a captive female Malabar giant squirrel. The animal, weighing 800 grams, was presented with swelling over the right side of the face, anorexia, and impaired vision. Radiographic examination revealed overgrown, maloccluded incisors piercing the facial tissues, predisposing to abscess formation. Anaesthesia was induced using intramuscular tiletamine–zolazepam at the dose rate of 4 mg/kg, ensuring safe immobilisation and rapid recovery. The abscess was surgically incised, drained, and lavaged, followed by topical mupirocin application and systemic antibiotic therapy with enrofloxacin based on culture sensitivity. Supportive care included fluid therapy and analgesia. Concurrently, dental trimming was performed to restore occlusion. Complete healing with hair regrowth and restoration of facial contour was observed within 14 days, without recurrence. This report highlights the importance of species-specific anaesthetic protocols, routine dental evaluation, and timely surgical management for successful treatment of facial abscesses in exotic squirrels. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first documented case of surgical management of a facial abscess in Ratufa indica under tiletamine–zolazepam anaesthesia.