Review of the Circulatory System

18.1.1 Review of the Circulatory System The circulatory system moves blood to all parts of the body. Blood carries food and water to the cells of the body, and also removes waste material. The circulatory, respiratory and blood systems work together to provide oxygen to the cells of the body. Oxygen is essential to keep the cells alive and functioning. The circulatory system is made up of the heart, arteries, veins and capillaries.

Diagram of the circulatory system

Note: Major arteries are shaded. Major veins are white.

Problems Associated with the Circulatory System Common problems of the circulatory system are few. Problems such as heartworms (common in dogs) are not covered in this book.

Hardware Disease If the heart stops pumping blood, an animal will die almost immediately. Heart failure in livestock is most commonly associated with accidentally eating a nail or wire (i.e. hardware). Once eaten, the hardware may penetrate the stomach wall and diaphragm and then poke the heart. This condition is called “hardware disease” and is covered in the digestive system. See page 189.

Shock This is the term for the circulatory system failing to function properly. Shock may result from blood loss, a severe infection, an internal abscess that suddenly bursts, or injury. It is covered under First Aid. See page 85.