BEHAVIORAL CHANGES FOLLOWING THALAMIC INJURY IN CAT

Abstract

Destruction of thalamic mediodorsal nuclei in cats gives rise to behavioral changes, the outward manifestations of which can be descr. under the general headings of increased irritability and rage. In addition, such prepns. display altered feeding habits, reduced motor activity and decreased ability to solve problems in learning and discrimination. Conversely, destruction of the thalamic anterior nuclear complex is followed by an elevated threshold for the elicitation of rage, overly solicitous responses to pleasurable stimuli, and docility. Combined injury of the thalamic anterior and mediodorsal nuclei occasions the development of labile behavior characterized principally by over-reactivity to both pleasurable and noxious stimuli. Finally, destruction of the thalamic intralaminar nuclei results in alterations of behavior characterized principally by transient lethargy, somnolence, motor disability, and reduced reactivity to noxious stimuli.