How is a cat's stomach structured? - briefly
A cat's stomach is divided into four main sections: the cardia, fundus, body (corpus), and pylorus. The stomach walls consist of several layers, including the mucosa, submucosa, muscularis externa, and serosa, each serving specific functions in digestion and absorption.
How is a cat's stomach structured? - in detail
The structure of a cat's stomach is designed to efficiently process and digest food, reflecting its carnivorous nature. The stomach can be divided into four distinct regions: the cardia, fundus, body (corpus), and pylorus.
The cardia is the entrance to the stomach, located near the esophageal sphincter. It serves as a gatekeeper, regulating the flow of food from the esophagus into the stomach. The fundus is the upper part of the stomach, positioned on the left side of the body. This region functions as a reservoir, allowing for the temporary storage of food before it moves further into the digestive tract.
The body (corpus) is the largest and most muscular part of the stomach. It contains numerous gastric glands that produce hydrochloric acid and enzymes essential for breaking down proteins and facilitating digestion. The rugae, or folds in the lining of the stomach, increase its surface area, enabling more efficient absorption and processing of nutrients.
The pylorus is the distal part of the stomach, leading to the small intestine. It serves as a valve, controlling the release of partially digested food into the duodenum. The pyloric sphincter ensures that only adequately processed food enters the intestines, preventing regurgitation and optimizing nutrient absorption.
In summary, the cat's stomach is a highly specialized organ, adapted to support its carnivorous diet. Each region plays a crucial role in digestion, ensuring that food is efficiently broken down and absorbed into the body.