At Terra Natura Benidorm, we have successfully carried out a complex dental procedure on Grecia, a 12-year-old female jaguar (Panthera onca) weighing 70 kilograms, who had suffered a fractured lower right canine with exposure of the pulp canal. The surgery, performed on Thursday 10 July, marks a significant step forward in veterinary medicine for big cats — particularly due to the pioneering use of a voluntary anaesthesia technique.

One of the most remarkable achievements of the procedure was the administration of anaesthesia without the need for darts — a first for the park. This was made possible thanks to the prior training work carried out by our dedicated animal care team, which allowed for a calm and respectful handling process, significantly reducing the animal’s stress levels.

The operation was led by head veterinarian Javier Cucurella Abril, with the support of fellow vet Mario Torró. Once Grecia was sedated, an intravenous catheter and endotracheal tube were placed, and she was maintained under inhalation anaesthesia for approximately two hours. The procedure ran smoothly, requiring no prior diagnostic imaging nor post-operative treatment, and her recovery has been completely normal, with no signs of pain.

Following the surgery, Grecia was closely monitored until she regained consciousness around three hours later. Our veterinary team emphasised that anaesthesia in large felines presents significant technical challenges, so maintaining a stable and appropriate anaesthetic plane with consistent vital signs was essential to ensure both the animal’s safety and the success of the intervention.

This operation underscores our ongoing commitment to animal welfare and the advancement of veterinary science. By applying cutting-edge techniques and developing new clinical protocols, Terra Natura Benidorm continues to establish itself as a benchmark in the care and conservation of vulnerable species.