Pelvis shape analysis with geometric morphometry in crossbreed cats

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Anatomy
• Comparative Osteology
• Geometric Morphometrics

Background:

• Understanding pelvic morphology is crucial for veterinary diagnostics and comparative anatomy.
• Previous studies have not extensively utilized geometric morphometry to analyze feline pelvic sexual dimorphism.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate and quantify sex-based shape variations in the domestic cat pelvis using geometric morphometry.
• To determine if pelvic morphology can reliably differentiate between male and female cats.

Main Methods:

• Computed tomography (CT) scans of 32 crossbreed cat pelves (16 male, 16 female) were acquired.
• 3D pelvic models were generated, and geometric morphometric analysis, including principal component analysis (PCA), was applied.
• Procrustes ANOVA and discriminant analysis were used to assess shape differences and their statistical significance.

Main Results:

• Principal component analysis identified significant shape variations, with PC2 and PC3 highlighting differences in the linea terminalis between sexes.
• While centroid size did not significantly differ between sexes, pelvic shape differences were statistically significant (p < 0.001).
• Discriminant analysis successfully separated male and female pelves, with specific differences noted in the crista iliaca, linea terminalis, and acetabulum.

Conclusions:

• Geometric morphometry effectively reveals subtle pelvic shape variations in cats related to sex.
• Pelvic morphology, particularly specific landmarks, can be used to accurately distinguish between male and female cats.
• This methodology offers a valuable tool for anatomical studies and potential clinical applications in feline medicine.