Mandibular symphyseal separation in the cat: treatment
5-year-old cat that fell from a fourth floor. It has oral bleeding, malocclusion and independent movement of the two hemimandibles on palpation. There are no other mandibular fractures and the thorax is stable.
What is the usual treatment for this injury?
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A. Circumferential cerclage wire around the mandible, caudal to the canines, twisted ventrally and removed at 4–6 weeks
Correct. It is a simple, effective technique: the wire is passed subcutaneously around both rami, tightened until the symphysis is aligned while checking canine occlusion, and removed once stable.
B. Tape muzzle for 6 weeks, without surgery
In cats the short muzzle means tape muzzles hold poorly and make eating and breathing difficult. They also do not reduce or stabilise an unstable symphysis.
C. Rostral mandibulectomy to prevent chronic instability
It is an oncological or salvage procedure for unrecoverable lesions, disproportionate for a symphyseal separation, which has an excellent prognosis with simple fixation.
D. Compression plate across the symphysis
Space is minimal and the canine and incisor roots occupy most of the bone: screws would damage them. Cerclage achieves the necessary stability without that risk.
lightbulb Key takeaway
Symphyseal separation is the most common mandibular injury in cats, typical of high-rise syndrome. Canine occlusion guides reduction. Also look for a hard palate fracture and, if the cat does not eat after surgery, consider an oesophagostomy tube.
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Updated: October 31, 2026 · Educational content for veterinary professionals. It does not replace current clinical guidelines or the judgement of the attending veterinarian.