How to make a cat dissection?

How to make a cat dissection? - briefly

To perform a cat dissection, first ensure that you have all necessary equipment including a dissecting tray, scalpel, tweezers, and latex gloves. Begin by placing the cat on its back, making an incision from the chin to the sternum, and carefully removing the skin.

How to make a cat dissection? - in detail

To perform a thorough and informative cat dissection, it is essential to follow a structured approach that ensures safety, efficiency, and educational value. Here are the steps to guide you through this process:

  1. Preparation:

    • Obtain a preserved cat specimen from a reputable supplier. Ensure it is well-preserved and free of contaminants.
    • Gather necessary tools including scalpels, forceps, scissors, pins, dissecting trays, and gloves for safety.
    • Set up the dissection area in a well-lit space with adequate ventilation. Cover the work surface with absorbent paper to minimize mess.

  2. Initial Observations:

    • Examine the external features of the cat. Note the color, texture, and length of the fur. Observe any distinguishing markings or patterns.
    • Palpate the body to determine the location of major organs and structures. This preliminary step helps in planning the dissection approach.

  3. Skinning:

    • Make an incision along the ventral midline from the chin to the tail using a scalpel.
    • Carefully lift the skin away from the underlying muscles, using forceps and scissors as needed. Be mindful of not damaging the underlying tissues.
    • Reflect the skin over the back of the cat and secure it with pins. This allows for better visualization of the internal structures.

  4. Exposure of Muscles:

    • Identify and cut through the connective tissue (aponeurosis) that covers the abdominal muscles.
    • Reflect the muscles to expose the underlying organs. Note the arrangement and attachments of these muscles.

  5. Abdominal Cavity Exploration:

    • Locate the diaphragm, the muscle that separates the thoracic from the abdominal cavity. Make a cut through it to access the thoracic organs.
    • Identify and carefully remove major organs such as the stomach, intestines, liver, spleen, kidneys, and urinary bladder. Observe their position, size, shape, and color.
    • Examine the reproductive system, noting any differences between male and female cats.

  6. Thoracic Cavity Exploration:

    • Carefully remove the lungs, heart, and associated structures from the thoracic cavity.
    • Observe the trachea and its connection to the larynx. Note the bronchi leading into the lungs.
    • Examine the heart and major blood vessels. Identify the chambers of the heart and the direction of blood flow.

  7. Head and Neck Dissection:

    • Make an incision along the dorsal midline of the head to expose the brain and skull structures.
    • Carefully remove the brain, noting its major parts such as the cerebrum, cerebellum, and brainstem.
    • Examine the eyes, ears, and other sensory organs. Observe their structure and connection to the nervous system.

  8. Skeletal System:

    • Once the soft tissues have been removed, clean the bones to expose the skeletal structure.
    • Note the arrangement of the vertebrae, ribs, limb bones, and skull. Observe how they articulate with one another.

  9. Documentation and Cleanup:

    • Throughout the dissection, document your observations with detailed notes and sketches. Photographs can also be useful for recording the process.
    • Once the dissection is complete, properly dispose of the remains according to institutional guidelines. Ensure all tools are cleaned and stored appropriately.

By following these steps, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of feline anatomy and physiology. Each step offers valuable insights into the complex systems that work together to sustain life in cats.