HYPOTHALAMIC LESIONS AND PNEUMONIA IN CATS

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Abstract
Extensive symmetrical electrolytic lesions in the middle region of the hypothalamus (caudal margin of the optic chiasm to the mammillary bodies) were followed by fatal bronchopneumonia in 16 of 19 cats. Possible contributory factors such as distemper, basilar hemorrhage, peritonitis, aspiration, laryngeal obstruction, pulmonary emboli, gastrointestinal disturbances and exposure to extremes of temperature were found to be of little or no etiologic significance, but serious disturbances in the ability to maintain a stable body temp. were observed and, with significant exceptions, appeared to be related to the incidence of pneumonia. The animals also showed a diminution in spontaneous affective behavior, but could be aroused to vigorous defensive combat by adequate stimuli. 5 cats with rostral hypothalamic lesions (anterior commissure to the caudal margin of the chiasm) showed heightened affectivity in seeking the experimenters'' attention and increased aggressiveness toward dogs and other cats. These animals maintained normal body temp. and were free from pneumonia. 8 cats with caudal hypothalamic lesions (mammillary bodies to red nuclei) showed mild disturbances in temp. regulation, catalepsy and hyperreflexia for a short time following operation, but only 2 succumbed to pneumonia.

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