FEATURES OF THE DEVELOPMENT, GROWTH AND STRUCTURE OF THE BONES OF DOGS AND CATS

This article is devoted to the systematic and comparative aspects of the phylo - and ontogenetic development, growth and structure of the bones of dogs and cats. We know that bone (lat. os) is a solid organ of humans and vertebrates, consisting of several tissues, the most important of which is bone. The bone performs musculoskeletal and protective functions, is an integral part of the vertebrate endoskeleton, produces red and white blood cells, and stores minerals. Bone tissue is a type of dense connective tissue. Bones come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, depending on the function of the particular bone. There are between 289 and 292 bones in the body of dogs and cats (a range of difference due to the diversity of the caudal vertebrae). Each has a complex structure, so that they are quite light, but at the same time rigid and durable. The bone may include in its structure: bone marrow, endosteum, periosteum, nerves, blood vessels, cartilage. Bones are made up of various bone tissue cells: osteoblasts are involved in the formation and mineralization of bones, osteocytes maintain structure, and osteoclasts provide bone resorption. The mineralized matrix of bone tissue has an organic component mainly from collagen and an inorganic component of bone tissue from various salts. Therefore, the coverage of the features of development, growth and structure of bones, as well as the role of bones in maintaining calcium homeostasis, blood supply and biomechanical aspects in cats and dogs, today is necessary for teachers, practitioners and students.