Morphology of the major salivary glands in ocelots (Leopardus pardalis): description of 02 cases.

The ocelot (Leopardus pardalis) is the largest species of its genus and, despite its wide distribution throughout the Americas, it is included on the main list of endangered species. Its conservation has been widely studied, but there is a lack of studies regarding its morphology. The morphology, measurements, and location of the salivary glands in wild felids are fundamental, as they provide basic information for understanding the biology of these species. This study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of the Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro (018/2017). Anatomical dissections were performed on the cadavers of two adult female ocelots. In the specimens studied, the parotid (PG), mandibular (MG), molar (MolG), sublingual (SLG), and zygomatic (ZG) salivary glands were identified in both antimeres. The length, width, thickness, and weight of the glands were measured, revealing individual variations among the analyzed specimens. Information on the anatomy of salivary glands in wild animals is scarce. The description of these glands in wild felids is important, as it may facilitate clinical treatments and provide information for professionals working in zoos and conservation units.