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Changes in the aggressive behavior of cats treated with amphetamine
1Department of Neurophysiology, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Warsaw, Poland.
The International Journal of Neuroscience
|August 1, 1988
Summary
DL-amphetamine administration in cats significantly inhibited predatory attacks and aggressive behaviors in social settings, even when facing prey or other cats. This suggests moderate doses reduce aggression and hunting instincts.
Area of Science:
- Neuropharmacology
- Animal Behavior
Background:
- Aggression and predatory behaviors are complex in felines.
- The effects of psychostimulants on these behaviors require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of DL-amphetamine on predatory and aggressive behaviors in male adult cats.
- To determine if DL-amphetamine modulates feline social and predatory aggression.
Main Methods:
- Male adult cats were administered DL-amphetamine (1.5 mg/kg) or saline daily for three weeks.
- Behavioral responses were observed during cat-mouse interactions, predatory competition, and conspecific interactions.
Main Results:
- DL-amphetamine treated cats showed inhibited or delayed predatory attacks.
- A loss of dominant status and a decrease in offensive and defensive behaviors were noted.
- Amphetamine significantly reduced aggressive displays in various tested conditions.
Conclusions:
- Moderate doses of DL-amphetamine inhibit predatory attack in cats.
- DL-amphetamine reduces aggressive behavior in social contexts in felines.
- The drug appears to suppress both predatory and social aggression.