Two lions underwent emergency care after being rescued from a Cambodian casino during clashes with Thailand.

The pair, named 'Merry' and 'Christmas', had been suffering severe digestive issues and poor appetite since they were seized from the Thmor Da casino in Cambodia's Pursat province on December 22.

The lion and lioness were taken to the Khaozon Wildlife Breeding Centre for observation, but staff noticed the two showed 'abnormal symptoms' such as decreased appetite and infrequent bowel movement.

They underwent x-ray scans, which found faecal compaction in their colons, causing them to strain when defecating.

Vets administered anaesthesia before performing an enema to clear the lions' bowels. They said the excrement samples collected contained fur, sand, and small bone fragments, adding that no large foreign obstructions were found.

A dental exam found that both lions also suffered cavities and extensive tartar build-up that affected their ability to eat.

The team performed dental scaling to treat the oral conditions. Antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medication, fluid therapy, and nutritional supplements were also administered to help nurse the lions back to health.

Wildlife officials said blood samples have been collected for further testing.

Pakphum Aramsirirujivej, head of the Khaozon Wildlife Breeding Centre, said: 'We are providing the lions with close, ongoing care, administering medication, adjusting their diet based on their behaviour, and continuously monitoring their excretory systems, to ensure their long-term health and wellbeing.'

Merry and Christmas were rescued from the casino allegedly used by Cambodian soldiers as an army base near the Thai-Cambodia border. Two Asian black bears and a Malayan sun bear were also rescued from the premises.