Claw, hoof - Horse - Digit - Sagittal PD - vet-Anatomy
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Claw, hoof

Unguicula, ungula

Definition

Felipe Barona Lopez

Both claws and hooves are specialized keratinized epidermal structures derived from the skin. They cover and protect the distal phalanx [Unguicular bone, Ungual bone] and serve roles in locomotion, traction, defense, and grooming depending on the species.

These structures are analogous in:

  • Carnivores (e.g. dogs, cats): Claws are retractable or fixed and aid in gripping and climbing.

  • Ungulates (e.g. horses, cattle): Hooves support body weight and absorb impact during locomotion.

They share some anatomical components like :

  • the wall, the hard dorsal surface that bears most of the mechanical load;

  • the sole, the plantar/palmar surface that helps protect internal tissues;

  • the claw fold/Limbus, the soft, rubbery band at the junction of skin and hoof/claw.

References

  • Dyce KM, Sack WO, Wensing CJG. Textbook of Veterinary Anatomy. 5th ed. St. Louis: Elsevier; 2017.

  • König HE, Liebich HG. Veterinary Anatomy of Domestic Mammals: Textbook and Colour Atlas. 6th ed. Stuttgart: Thieme; 2020.

  • Evans HE, de Lahunta A. Miller’s Anatomy of the Dog. 5th ed. St. Louis: Elsevier; 2020.

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