Which feature is true about the lagomorph/cavy stomach?

• A. Strong Cardiac Sphincter
• B. No cardiac sphincter
• C. Cardiac sphincter is weaker than in cats
• D. Cardiac sphincter located in the duodenum

Answer: (A)

The feature being tested is the esophagogastric junction in lagomorphs and cavies. These animals have a fairly strong cardiac sphincter at the junction where the esophagus meets the stomach. This valve acts as a tight barrier, helping prevent reflux of acidic stomach contents back into the esophagus, which is especially useful given their continuous grazing and frequent swallowing. It also ensures swallowed material moves one way into the stomach rather than back up. Therefore, a strong cardiac sphincter is the correct concept. The idea of having no cardiac sphincter is incorrect, and the notion that the sphincter is weaker than in cats isn’t accurate for this context. Also, the cardiac sphincter is located at the esophagus–stomach junction, not in the duodenum.