General Considerations in Anatomy of Animals

Anatomical terminology

Differences between human and animal anatomical terms

Much of the terminology used in describing anatomy of animals is the same as that used

in human anatomy. The principle differences can be explained by remembering that an

animal is generally considered standing on all fours. As a result

a) Structures that in the human would be referred to as anterior, are referred to as

ventral, i.e. directed towards the ground.

b) Structures that in the human are referred to as posterior, are referred to as dorsal.

An additional but crucial difference, is that in the human anatomical position, the palms

of the hands are directed anteriorly, such that the ulna and 5th digit are medial. In

animals, the palms face posteriorly (inevitably, if the animal is to walk on them!), so as

a result, the radius and 1st digit are medial. This is an important distinction to remember

in considering the anatomy of the forelimb in animals, for those with training in

human anatomy.

Finally, in the quadripedal position in which the vertebral column is parallel with the

ground, the direction of the head is referred to as cranial, and the direction of the tail is

caudal. When referring to structures within the head, the term rostral, meaning towards

the nose, is substituted for cranial.

Another possible source of confusion may come from the terms upper and lower limb.

In humans, “upper limb” refers to the arm, and “lower limb” to the leg. The terms tend

to be applied more loosely in animal anatomy, as essentially all four limbs are regarded

as legs. Hence, “upper limb” tends to refer to the part of the limb above carpus or hock

(ankle), while “lower limb” refers to the part of the limb below these points.

Although physiotherapists will be familiar with anatomical terminology, the following

glossary is included to help overcome any confusion that may arise from differences in

human and animal anatomy.