Abstract

Dasanayaka Arachchilage Arosh Lakshitha*, Jayantha Wijayabandara, Walisinghe Pathirana

ABSTRACT

Cats are well known to frolic around fresh roots of Acalypha indica plant. Thisstudy explores the use of root extract of the plant as a natural formulation for catmood elevation. It aims to promote getting over states of depression, particularlycats living in isolation such as in high rise apartments together with the cat ownerhimself. Fresh Acalypha indica roots were extracted and their phytochemicalprofiling was conducted using standard chemical tests and UV spectroscopy. Catattractantcompounds in the extract were identified via GC-MS analysis. Azebrafish embryo toxicity assay was performed to determine the LC??, based onwhich a spray formulation was developed. Short-term marker-based analysis of thehighest concentration formulation was conducted using solid-phase microextraction(SPME). Physical evaluation of final formulations was also carried out.Phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of alkaloids, phenols, flavonoids,terpenoids, tannins, and steroids. GC-MS analysis revealed the presence ofIridomyrmecin and Dihydronepetalactone, which are the known cat-attractantcompounds. The LC?? of the extract was determined to be 10.70% (w/w). After onemonth, SPME analysis showed a reduction of Iridomyrmecin andDihydronepetalactone by 50.95% and 58.84%, respectively. The identification offeline attractants in Acalypha indica root extract supports its potential use inveterinary formulations. Through cat-based animal studies and improvedstabilization, the formulation may be successfully developed for commercialapplications.