Anatomical differences in the biliary duct system between canines and felines: A review article

The liver is one of the largest glands in the digestive system and performs 13 various functions, including the secretion of hormones and enzymes. The gallbladder serves as a storage reservoir for secretions before they are released into the digestive system through the duodenum. The bile ducts branch from the liver's lobes and ultimately connect to the digestive system, making this structure significant and distinct among different animal species. This review focuses on the differences between dogs and cats, highlighting the importance of these differences from both health and pathological perspectives. After conducting a detailed scientific review of the biliary tree in dogs and cats, we concluded that cats are more susceptible to the disease than dogs. We recommend conducting extensive radiological studies to determine which species experience cases of this disease more frequently. Additionally, it would be beneficial to explore crossbreeding with another species with a biliary tree structure that offers protection against certain diseases affecting the liver and bile.