3. The Skeleton

Question 1

What are the two skeletal divisions in equine anatomy?

Answer 1

Axial and Appendicular

Axial refers to the central part of the skeleton, while Appendicular refers to the limbs and their attachments.

Question 2

What are the divisions of the vertebral column?

Answer 2

Cervical, Thoracic, Lumbar, Sacral, Coccygeal

Each division has a specific number of vertebrae: Cervical (C1-C7), Thoracic (T1-T18), Lumbar (L1-L6), Sacral (S1-S5), Coccygeal (varies).

Question 3

How many pairs of ribs do horses have?

Answer 3

18 pairs

Of these, 8 pairs are ‘true’ ribs attached to the sternum, and 10 pairs are ‘false’ ribs.

Question 4

What is the function of the atlas in the cervical division?

Answer 4

Up/down movement

The atlas is the first cervical vertebra, allowing the horse to nod its head.

Question 5

What is the function of the axis in the cervical division?

Answer 5

Rotation

The axis is the second cervical vertebra, enabling the horse to turn its head.

Question 6

List three major bones found in the upper jaw of a horse.

Answer 6

• Maxilla
• Incisive
• Frontal

These bones contribute to the structure of the skull.

Question 7

What is the pisiform bone also known as?

Answer 7

Accessory carpal bone

It is part of the appendicular skeleton in the forelimb.

Question 8

What is the coffin bone also known as?

Answer 8

Pedal bone

This bone is critical to the structure of the hoof.

Question 9

What bones are referred to as ‘cuboid’ in equine anatomy?

Answer 9

Carpal and tarsal bones

These bones are located in the wrist and ankle regions.

Question 10

Identify two major bones found in the hind appendicular skeleton.

Answer 10

• Ischium
• Tuber calcis

Ischium is part of the pelvis, while tuber calcis is part of the hock.

Question 11

Fill in the blank: The evolution of the hoof indicates that horses have transitioned from a _______ animal to a hooved animal.

Answer 11

toed

This evolutionary change has significant implications for horse anatomy and locomotion.

Question 12

What is the primary view used to examine the hoof?

Answer 12

Lateral (side) view

This view helps in understanding the structure and function of the hoof.