42 MAMMALIAN ANATOMY 



and gain time. If the illustrations be studied in place of the speci- 

 mens themselves, the purpose of this book will be defeated. 



The student must not expect to find every bone agreeing exactly 

 with the illustrations of it ; all bones vary, some more, some less, and 

 the illustrations have been prepared to exhibit what are believed to be 

 usual conditions. I have called attention to all variations I have seen 

 or have found recorded ; the student should remember, however, that 

 the list is by no means complete, and probably never can be completed. 



It will be observed that the description of a bone begins with a 

 general statement of its shape, size, and function, its position in the 

 body, and its more evident parts. It is then divided into all its parts, 

 and every part is carefully examined, with all surfaces and borders and 

 peculiar features. Then follow : (1) The explanation of the name. 

 (2) Determination of right and left bones. (3) Articulation with other 

 bones. (4) Muscular attachments. (5) Blood-supply. (6) Method 

 of ossification. (7) Variations in size and form. Unless otherwise 

 stated, every bone is described in its natural position in the body. 



Such technical terms as have not been already explained are defined 

 in foot-notes, in popular form, without any attempt at philological 

 nicety. Greek words are printed in italics, preceded or followed by 



(Gr.). 



A conclusion may be drawn from the facts presented in this chapter 

 that, in comparison with man's, the cat's skeleton is more elaborate and 

 even more complex. On the principle that the greater includes 

 the less, an exhaustive study of the cat will equip the student with a 

 knowledge of human anatomy which hereafter, however profound 

 may be his researches, will need to be supplemented by differential 

 details only. There can be therefore no more thorough introduction 

 to the study of all anatomy than a complete mastery of the anatomy 

 of the cat. 



