Metacarpal Revealing Paws

Glossary

Metacarpals

Metacarpus

The joints and bones of a forelimb located between the carpus (wrist) and the phalanges (fingers).

Metacarpus

Carpus

The joint and bones of an animal’s forelimb that correspond to the human wrist.

Carpus of Kitten

Forelimb

Either of the cranial (anterior or front) limbs.

Tabby Forelimb Revealing Paw

Phalanges

Bones of a digit or digits (fingers or toes).

Phalanges of Domestic Cat Forefoot

Proximal

Relating to, or located towards, the centre of the main body.

In the case of an appendage, such as a limb, this is towards the point of attachment to the main body.

Distal Direction Illustrated by Dog Paw

Metatarsal

1. Relating to, or located in, the metatarsus.

2. The bones of the metatarsus, between the tarsus (ankle) and the phalanges (toes).

Metatarsals of Domestic Cat

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Revealing Paws

dogs' and cats' paws and tracks

Metacarpus

Carpus

Forelimb

Phalanges

Proximal

Metatarsal

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Metacarpal

1. Relating to, or located in, the metacarpus.

2. The bones of the metacarpus, between the carpus (wrist) and the phalanges (fingers).

Proximal to the fingers, these bones that constitute the palm of the human hand.

The metacarpal bones of dogs and cats are located higher up the forelimb and do not usually make contact with the ground.

Cf. metatarsal