Cats are well known to frolic around fresh roots of Acalypha indica plant. This study explores the use of root extract of the plant as a natural formulation for cat mood elevation. It aims to promote getting over states of depression, particularly cats living in isolation such as in high rise apartments together with the cat owner himself. Fresh Acalypha indica roots were extracted and their phytochemical profiling was conducted using standard chemical tests and UV spectroscopy. Cat-attractant compounds in the extract were identified via GC-MS analysis. A zebrafish embryo toxicity assay was performed to determine the LC₅₀, based on which a spray formulation was developed. Short-term marker-based analysis of the highest 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 of Iridomyrmecin and Dihydronepetalactone, which are the known cat-attractant compounds. The LC₅₀ of the extract was determined to be 10.70% (w/w). After one month, SPME analysis showed a reduction of Iridomyrmecin and Dihydronepetalactone by 50.95% and 58.84%, respectively. The identification of feline attractants in Acalypha indica root extract supports its potential use in veterinary formulations. Through cat-based animal studies and improved stabilization, the formulation may be successfully developed for commercial applications.
Dasanayaka Arachchilage Arosh Lakshitha1*, Jayantha Wijayabandara1, Walisinghe Pathirana2 (2026) studied this question.