Today I worked on a Fossa. These carnivores are indigenous to Madagascar; they are best described as a dog-like cat. Fossas are closely related to viverids (civets and binturong), hyeanidids (hyenas) and herpestids (mongoose) and are the largest carnivore found in Madagascar. Physical characteristics include a brown coat, long tail, cat-like pupillary eye slits and a body weight of about 6-8kg (14-18lbs). Today's Fossa was immobilized and evaluated for inappetence. An IV catheter was placed in the left cephalic vein. This vessel normally sits on the anterior surface of the front limb, however in this species, as with many bear species, lies much more medial than expected. Lactated Ringers were given at 100ml/hr. Skull radiographs showed fractures of the mandibular canine teeth; they required temporary root canals. A hole is drilled into the pulp cavity of the tooth. Nerve and vascular material is removed from the inside of the tooth and filled with a composite material. A 'light curing' composite is used which is durable and easy to instill. Root canals are not uncommon in species that break or wear down tooth surfaces; this ensures that the aesthetics of the tooth are maintained. The Fossa was recovered without complication.
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