Meet Jovi, a resilient 3-year-old domestic shorthaired cat who recently faced a life-threatening ordeal. After suffering severe injuries from a dog attack, Jovi was rushed to our Emergency Room (ER), where our veterinary team quickly triaged and stabilized her. Given the trauma she endured, our ER doctors sought the expertise of our Board-Certified Veterinary Dentist, Dr. Monica Morgado, to explore treatment options and give Jovi the best chance at recovery.

Advanced Diagnostics for a Complex Case

Initial assessments suggested multiple fractures in Jovi’s upper jaw (maxilla) and left lower jaw (mandible). However, to fully understand the extent of her injuries, advanced imaging, including a Cone Beam CT (CBCT) scan and intra-oral dental radiographs, was performed. Due to her inability to close her mouth, our team placed an Esophagostomy feeding tube (E-tube) to ensure she received proper nutrition during her recovery.

Surgical Intervention: A Delicate Reconstruction

The imaging confirmed our suspicions—Jovi had sustained multiple fractures in both her maxilla and mandible. To restore function and structure, our veterinary dental team performed a meticulous reconstruction. The maxilla was repaired by closing her hard palate, while the lower jaw was stabilized using an intraosseous wire to support proper healing.

Ensuring Jovi could regain normal mouth function was a priority, so a modified labial button technique was employed. Three buttons—two on either side of her nose and one on her chin—were strategically placed with a strong suture to maintain jaw stability during healing. This technique prevented laxity and ensured proper alignment of her jaws over time.

A Remarkable Recovery

After four weeks, Jovi’s progress was evident. Her jaws had aligned well, allowing for the removal of the suture and buttons. The intraosseous wire was also taken out, thanks to the formation of a strong callus on her mandible. With dedicated at-home physical therapy and a variety of diets to encourage eating, Jovi adapted well. Two months after her surgery, her E-tube was removed, marking a significant milestone in her recovery.

Thriving Once Again

Today, Jovi is back to her playful, affectionate self, enjoying life just as she did before the accident. Her journey is a testament to the expertise and compassionate care provided by our ER and Dental & Oral Surgery teams. Thanks to their dedication, Jovi now has the opportunity to live a happy, healthy life, doing all the things she loves most.

At our hospital, we are committed to providing exceptional veterinary care for pets in need, ensuring they have the best possible outcome—just like Jovi. If your pet ever faces a dental or emergency situation, our team is here to help every step of the way!