The rectum is a part of the digestive system found in horses and many other animals. It is the final section of the large intestine, responsible for the temporary storage of faeces before elimination from the body. Here are some key points about a horse's rectum:
Location of the rectum...
In horses, like in most mammals, the rectum is located within the abdominal cavity. Specifically, the rectum is positioned at the end of the large intestine, which is the final part of the digestive system. It is located towards the back end of the horse's body, near the tail.
To be more specific about its location, the rectum is situated just past the large colon and small colon. The large colon is the first section of the large intestine, and the small colon comes after the large colon. The rectum follows the small colon and is responsible for temporarily storing faeces until it is ready to be expelled from the body through the anus during defecation.
what is the Function of the rectum?
1. Faecal Storage:
As food passes through the horse's digestive system, it goes through the stomach, small intestine, and large intestine. The large intestine is divided into several segments, including the cecum, colon, and rectum. The rectum is the final section of the large intestine, and its main role is to store undigested food material and waste products in the form of faeces until it is time for the horse to defecate.
2. Water Absorption:
While faeces are stored in the rectum, the body continues to absorb excess water from the undigested material. This absorption of water helps in forming the faeces into a more solid and manageable consistency, making it easier for the horse to expel during defecation.
3. Sensory Feedback:
The rectum contains sensory receptors that provide feedback to the horse about the volume and consistency of the faecal material. When the rectum becomes sufficiently filled, it sends signals to the horse's brain, resulting in the urge to defecate.
4. Defecation:
When the rectum is adequately filled, the horse experiences the urge to defecate. The anal sphincter muscles, which are circular muscles that surround the anus, relax, allowing the faecal material stored in the rectum to be expelled from the body through the anus.
Anatomy of the rectum...
The rectum is a muscular tube that measures about 1.5 to 2 feet (45 to 60 centimeters) in length in horses. It is lined with mucous membrane, which helps with the passage of faeces.
Defecation...
When the rectum is sufficiently filled with faeces, the horse will typically experience the urge to defecate. The anal sphincter muscles relax, allowing the faecal matter to be expelled from the rectum through the anus.
Health Concerns:
Like any part of the digestive system, the rectum can be susceptible to certain health issues. Constipation, impaction, and rectal prolapse are some of the conditions that may affect the rectum in horses. These conditions require prompt veterinary attention.
Care and Hygiene:
Proper hygiene and care are essential for maintaining a horse's rectal health. Regular deworming, proper nutrition, and access to clean water are crucial in preventing digestive issues.
horses rectum info...
