Biology

Kitten licking his paw.

Cat’s Endocrine System

Within the bodies of all mammals, a complex network of glands (the endocrine system) is responsible for the production and secretion of special proteins and lipids (fats) called hormones. In turn, these hormones serve to regulate many vital functions within the body, from growth and development to digestion and utilization of nutrients. Like the nervous …

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White cat behind a brick wall.

Cat’s Nervous System

The nervous system involves a complex interaction between special elements designed to originate or carry unique electrochemical charges to and from the various organs within the body. Like its endocrine counterpart, the nervous system initiates and regulates bodily functions and ensures its owner of an awareness to the surrounding environment. Anatomy and Physiology The smallest …

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Obese cat sitting on the floor and meowing.

The Musculoskeletal System

The musculoskeletal system in mammals is responsible for locomotion, plus support and protection of vital internal organs. The components of this system include muscles, bones, and a variety of supportive structures, including ligaments, tendons, and cartilage. Disorders of the musculoskeletal system can be quite debilitating to a dog or cat and be accompanied by a …

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Cat resting on her toy.

About Cat’s Ears

The sense of hearing in the average cat is much more fine-tuned than that of a human, allowing it to detect much higher sound pitches. The upper range of hearing is thought to be around 60,000 kilohertz for cats, well above the 20,000-kilohertz norm for people. Anatomy and Physiology The feline hearing apparatus can be …

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Fluffy cat sitting on the sofa.

The Skin and Haircoat

The skin, or integument, functions to protect the body from outside foreign invaders and from water loss. It provides a focus for the sense of touch and assists in the regulation of the temperature within the body. In addition, special modifications of the skin, such as claws and pads, provide a means of traction and …

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Kitten sitting on blue blanket.

The Reproductive System

Diseases and conditions involving the reproductive tract tend to be either infectious or anatomical in nature. Prompt medical attention is warranted in any disorder involving the reproductive tract. Anatomy and Physiology The Male Reproductive System Starting with the male cat, the major parts of the reproductive system include the testicles (with associated epididymis and ductus …

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Drawing of male and female cat urinary system.

Cat’s Urinary System

In the normal, day-to-day functioning of the body, lots of waste material is formed as a result of metabolic activity. It is the function of the urinary system to handle and to rid the body of these waste products. In addition, through its ability to dilute or concentrate the urine, it serves to regulate fluid …

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White and orange cat eating grass.

Cat’s Digestive System

The digestive system of the cat is made up of a collective network of organs designed to supply the body with the nutrition it needs for growth, maintenance, and repair. It also functions to rid the body of waste. Because of this, diseases involving the digestive system can have a profound effect not only on …

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Fluffy orange cat with big eyes resting.

Nasopharyngeal Polyps

Nasopharyngeal polyps are benign, pendulous masses that are associated with chronic ear infections in cats. These polyps normally arise within the throat region and extend into the latter part of the nasal cavity. They may grow to significant sizes and actually interfere with the normal flow of air into the trachea and respiratory airways, causing …

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