Análise microscópica comparativa do intestino da Puma Concolor e Felis Catus

Abstract

This study compared the microscopic anatomy of the intestine of Puma concolor with that of the domestic cat in order to describe, evaluate and catalog the differences and similarities in the intestinal morphology of these species. The intestine is the largest portion of the digestive system and is extremely important for the proper functioning of the organism. Under microscopy, both intestines have mucosal, submucosal, muscular and serous layers; however, only the small intestine has villi, while this structure is absent in the large intestine. The microscopic intestinal anatomy of domestic and wild felines is similar. The puma is one of the largest felines in Brazil, widely distributed throughout the national territory, and is highly relevant in the country. Furthermore, it is a national animal and suffers enormous losses due to human actions. Therefore, this research aims to enrich the anatomical knowledge of Puma concolor to assist in clinical and surgical care, environmental management, and mainly in the preservation of this species.