Canine and Feline Neurology Terminology

These flashcards cover essential terminology and concepts from canine and feline neurology, including anatomy and physiological components of the nervous system.

Postural reaction

A proprioceptive reaction in animals assessing the ability to maintain posture.

Central Nervous System (CNS)

The part of the nervous system that includes the brain and spinal cord.

Upper motor neuron (UMN)

The first neuron in the motor pathway that has its cell body in the CNS and synapses on lower motor neurons.

Gray matter

The unmyelinated region of the CNS that contains cell bodies and dendrites.

White matter

The myelinated region of the CNS that contains myelinated axons.

Peripheral nervous system (PNS)

Consists of all parts of the nervous system except the brain and spinal cord.

Lower motor neuron (LMN)

The second neuron in the motor pathway that begins in the spinal cord or brainstem and connects to skeletal muscle.

Cranial nerve (CN)

Nerves that are motor and sensory to the head and neck, emerging directly from the brainstem.

Somatic Nervous System

The part of the PNS that controls proprioception, voluntary movement, and reflexes.

Visceral/autonomic Nervous System

The part of the PNS that controls the function of internal organs, including the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems.

Cauda equina

The bundle of spinal roots and nerves located caudal to the L7 vertebra.

Spinal segments

There are different segments in large animals, including cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacral, and caudal segments.