Overview
As in other carnivores, it is the largest of the masticatory muscles. It covers the lateral surface of the cranial vault and passes medial to the zygomatic arch to the mandible.
Origin
Temporal fossa, external sagittal crest and nuchal crest.
Insertion
Coronoid process of the mandible.
Action
Elevates the mandible and closes the mouth.
Innervation
Mandibular nerve (n. mandibularis), a branch of the trigeminal nerve (cranial nerve V).
Clinical relevance
It is palpated over the skull for muscle condition scoring. Its atrophy is common in older cats and in chronic diseases such as chronic kidney disease, hyperthyroidism or neoplasia.