Consummatory behavior and adrenocortical responsiveness in the hamster

In this study we examined the effects of consummatory behavior on adrenocortical activity in the golden hamster (Mesocricetus auratus). We found that: (1) Animals tested in their home cage began drinking faster and drank more water than animals tested in a novel cage. (2) Basal levels of cortisol were not elevated following 24 hr water deprivation. (3) Placement in a novel cage produced significant cortisol elevations. However, if water was available, cortisol levels were reduced and did not differ significantly from presession (basal) levels. (4) Opportunity to drink while in the home cage produced no significant change in cortisol. All animals were water-deprived for 24 hr prior to testing and no sex differences were observed on any of these measures. In a second experiment we examined adrenocortical inhibition in water-deprived animals tested in a novel cage which was Empty or which allowed access to Food, Water or Sanicel bedding. Presence of food did not reduce cortisol levels; however, presence of either water or Sanicel reduced plasma corticoids to basal levels.