Unit 694: Veterinary Physiology

1. Introduction to Veterinary Physiology

• Basic concepts and principles of physiology
• Cellular functions and processes
• Concept of homeostasis and its importance in animals

2. Homeostasis in Veterinary Physiology

• Definition and significance
• Mechanisms maintaining internal balance
  • Feedback systems (negative and positive)
  • Role of organ systems in homeostasis
• Examples of homeostatic regulation in animals

3. Cardiovascular System in Veterinary Physiology

3.1 Anatomy of the Cardiovascular System

• Heart structure and chambers
• Blood vessels: arteries, veins, capillaries
• Circulatory pathways: systemic and pulmonary

3.2 Cardiovascular Physiology

• Cardiac cycle and conduction system
• Blood pressure and its regulation
• Blood flow and circulation dynamics

4. Respiratory System in Veterinary Physiology

4.1 Anatomy of the Respiratory System

• Respiratory tract structures
• Lung anatomy

4.2 Respiratory Physiology

• Mechanisms of respiration
• Gas exchange processes
• Transport of oxygen and carbon dioxide
• Role of oxygen in cellular respiration

5. Digestive System in Veterinary Physiology

5.1 Digestive Anatomy

• Organs involved in ingestion, digestion, absorption, and elimination
• Species-specific adaptations

5.2 Digestive Physiology and Animal Nutrition

• Digestive processes and enzyme functions
• Nutrient requirements and absorption
• Role of different nutrients in health maintenance

6. Endocrine System in Veterinary Physiology

6.1 Endocrine Glands and Hormones

• Major glands: hypothalamus, pituitary, thyroid, adrenal, pancreas, etc.
• Types and functions of hormones

6.2 Hormonal Regulation

• Mechanisms of hormone action
• Hypothalamic-pituitary axis
• Role of hormones in physiological balance and body function coordination

7. Nervous System in Veterinary Physiology

7.1 Structure of the Nervous System

• Central nervous system (CNS)
• Peripheral nervous system (PNS)

7.2 Nervous System Function

• Neural communication: action potentials, synapses
• Sensory processing
• Motor control and reflexes

8. Musculoskeletal System in Veterinary Physiology

8.1 Anatomy of Muscles, Bones, and Joints

• Muscle types and structure
• Bone anatomy and remodeling
• Joint types and mechanics

8.2 Musculoskeletal Physiology

• Muscle contraction mechanisms
• Bone growth and repair
• Role in movement, support, and protection

9. Reproductive System in Veterinary Physiology

9.1 Reproductive Anatomy

• Male and female reproductive organs
• Species-specific reproductive structures

9.2 Reproductive Physiology

• Reproductive cycles (estrous and menstrual)
• Gestation and parturition
• Hormonal control of reproduction

10. Renal System in Veterinary Physiology

10.1 Anatomy of the Renal System

• Kidneys and nephron structure
• Urinary tract components

10.2 Renal Physiology and Fluid Balance

• Filtration, reabsorption, and secretion
• Regulation of water and electrolyte balance
• Waste excretion mechanisms

11. Immunology and Immune Response in Veterinary Physiology

• Overview of the immune system
• Innate vs adaptive immunity
• Immune responses to pathogens
• Vaccination strategies

Summary and Integration

• Interrelation of physiological systems
• Application in veterinary health and disease management