In the quest to understand and mitigate fear in domestic cats, a groundbreaking study led by Fabiola Torres-Bernal from the Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana in Mexico City has uncovered promising insights. The research, published in the journal Veterinary Sciences (translated from Spanish), explores the use of infrared thermography and physiological variables to recognize fear in cats, using three pharmacological models: cannabidiol (CBD), gabapentin, and synthetic facial pheromones (SFP).
The study involved 80 cats, divided into four groups: a control group receiving a placebo, and three experimental groups receiving CBD, gabapentin, or SFP. The cats were exposed to a fear model involving negative dog–cat interactions, and their surface temperature and physiological parameters were monitored through various phases, including baseline, fear induction, and recovery.
Torres-Bernal and her team found that the administration of CBD, gabapentin, and SFP resulted in significant differences in the average surface temperature of various thermal windows and cardiorespiratory parameters during the second fear induction phase, compared to the control group and the first fear induction phase. “The results suggest a pharmacological effect of CBD, gabapentin, and synthetic facial pheromones on cats’ physiological alterations in response to fear,” Torres-Bernal explained.
The implications of this research are far-reaching. For pet owners and veterinarians, these findings could lead to more effective and humane methods of managing fear and anxiety in cats, improving their quality of life. For the pet care industry, this could open up new avenues for product development, such as CBD-infused treats or pheromone-based calming sprays.
Moreover, the use of infrared thermography as a non-invasive method to monitor physiological changes could revolutionize the way we understand and respond to stress and fear in animals. This technology could be applied in various settings, from veterinary clinics to animal shelters, providing real-time data to inform care and treatment decisions.
As Torres-Bernal noted, “This study is just the beginning. The potential applications of these findings are vast, and we are excited to explore them further.” The research not only sheds light on the complex nature of feline fear but also paves the way for innovative solutions in animal welfare and care.