No abstract

In a two-choice experiment, cats (Felis domesticusi chose an active quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica) more often than a quail in tonic immobility (TI). In a second experiment, cats were individually presented with two active quail in an open field. Holding and biting by the cat, particularly about the neck, was necessary for inducing TI in a bird. Overall, the total time spent by a cat in stalking, attacking, and handling a bird was inversely related to the total time spent in TI by the bird. These results support the hypothesis that TI is a terminal defense mechanism elicited by predator contact. TI apparently eliminates the movement stimuli that sustain further attack.