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Self-administration of morphine in the cat
The International Journal of the Addictions
|April 1, 1980
Summary
Cats show psychological dependence on morphine, self-administering it more than saline. However, they exhibit minimal physiological dependence, suggesting a potential model for separating these two aspects of drug addiction.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
- Animal Models
Background:
- Morphine dependence involves both psychological and physiological components.
- Understanding the neurobiological basis of these components is crucial for addiction research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate morphine dependence in cats.
- To determine if cats can serve as a model for separating psychological and physiological dependence.
Main Methods:
- Three experiments were conducted using cats.
- Psychological dependence was assessed via self-administration of morphine versus saline.
- Physiological dependence was measured by observing withdrawal signs.
Main Results:
- Cats self-administered significantly more morphine than saline.
- The self-administration pattern resembled that of psychomotor stimulant use.
- Cats developed psychological dependence and tolerance but showed minimal physiological dependence (withdrawal signs).
Conclusions:
- Cats exhibit psychological morphine dependence but little physiological dependence.
- The cat may serve as a valuable model for dissociating the neurobiological underpinnings of psychological and physiological drug dependence.