Effects of a synthetic facial pheromone on behavior of cats

The effect of hiding enrichment on stress levels and behaviour of domestic cats (Felis sylvestris catus) in a shelter setting and the implications for adoption potential

This study investigates the effect of hiding enrichment on stress and behaviour of kennelled cats. Forty-three cats were studied either with a BC SPCA Hide & Perch™ box as enrichment, or with an open bed as control. Observations consisted of Stress Score, approach test and scan sample, recorded daily over the five days following a cat's entrance into the adoption centre, and again on the 14th day if the cat was still present. Days until adoption was noted for cats adopted during the study period. A survey was given to adopters of study cats in an attempt to determine the motivations underlying their choice of cat.

A significant reduction in stress was noted between all study days in the enriched group. Stress levels in this group declined further between the fifth and the 14th day, while those of the control group increased. Cats in the enriched group were significantly more likely to approach and displayed relaxed behaviours much more frequently. No significant difference was found between the two groups in days until adoption, percentage adopted, or in the reasons provided by the new owners in the adoption survey; however temperament was found to be the highest ranked reason for choosing a cat from either group.

Results of this study suggest that the welfare of kennelled cats is greatly improved if they are provided with the opportunity to perform effective hiding behaviour, and that the ability to perform such a behaviour does not decrease the likelihood of those cats being adopted.

Evidence-Based Management of Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease

Many treatments have been recommended for managing cats with feline urinary tract disease (FLUTD). Veterinarians making therapeutic decisions should consider the quality of evidence supporting a recommendation to use (or not use) a particular treatment for cats with FLUTD. Whenever possible, recommendations should be based on results of randomized and well-controlled scientific studies performed in clinical patients with the spontaneously occurring disease of interest. In the absence of such studies, one is left to make the best recommendation possible with consideration of all information, including the quality of the evidence. At this time, additional studies are needed to evaluate evidence for many currently recommended treatments for cats with FLUTD.

A synthetic fraction of feline facial pheromones calms but does not reduce struggling in cats before venous catheterization

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate whether a synthetic analogue of feline facial pheromone (FFP) calms cats before, and reduces struggling during intravenous catheterization.

DESIGN

Block-randomized, 'blinded' clinical trial.

ANIMALS

Seventy-seven healthy cats presented for elective surgery.

PROCEDURE

Cats given glycopyrrolate and oxymorphone were assigned to one of four treatments: acepromazine and exposure to FFP (aceFFP); acepromazine and exposure to a placebo (acePlac); exposure to FFP only (FFP) and exposure to placebo only (Plac). The behaviour of cats was recorded on videotape for evaluation by assessors unaware of treatment group. Cats' veins were then catheterized by veterinary students unaware of the study protocol. Based on each cat's response to catheterization, the student independently decided whether intramuscular ketamine was required.

RESULTS

Cats in the aceFFP group appeared to be calmer than acePlac cats on the basis of head position and their location in the cage (suggesting benefit from FFP among cats receiving acepromazine) but appeared to be less sedated. Cats in the aceFFP group also appeared to be calmer than FFP cats on the basis of head position and location in the cage. Feline facial pheromone cats were also calmer than Plac cats when compared using body and leg position. Exposure to FFP did not significantly reduce struggling at catheterization, nevertheless, the students were able to catheterize the veins in all cats.

CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE

There were no detrimental behavioural effects associated with either FFP or acepromazine. The FFP had additional calming effects in cats given acepromazine and, to a lesser degree, helped to calm cats that were not given acepromazine. Feline facial pheromone helps to calm cats in unfamiliar surroundings.

Recent concepts in feline lower urinary tract disease

This article presents and discusses recent concepts in feline lower urinary tract disease.

Aphrodisin, an aphrodisiac lipocalin secreted in hamster vaginal secretions

Vertebrates communicate through pheromones, which favor biological regulations within each species. Aphrodisin, a protein belonging to the lipocalin superfamily, found in hamster vaginal secretions, is detected by the male accessory olfactory system and induces or facilitates its copulatory behavior. Although much is known about aphrodisin structure, the question of whether aphrodisin bears itself the pheromonal function or is simply a carrier for hydrophobic small pheromones has not been definitely solved. Arguments based on use of recombinant aphrodisin deprived of any natural ligand and its capability to convey hamster pheromonal compounds will be discussed, together with progresses concerning putative natural ligand(s).

Feline house soiling: elimination and marking behaviors

Although challenging at times, managing cats with elimination issues can be rewarding. The frustration in management of these cases is often a result of the lack of a proper diagnosis and random treatment application. A systematic approach to these cases should help to achieve treatment success. Also, new information should lead to further advancements in treatment.