Changes of conditioned reflexes in dogs during inhalation of ether in low concentrations

Abstract

The object of study was the dynamics of conditioned secretory food reflexes in dogs during 20–60 min inhalation of a 1–2% ether-oxygen mixture. It was found that a 1% ether mixture, without causing a change in general dogs' behavior, provokes a reduction of the conditioned reflex to a weak stimulation and disinhibition of the capacity for differentiation. The total intensity of conditioned reflexes usually declines by 4–65% below the control level. Upon inhalation of a 2% ether mixture, dogs develop a motor unrest. The conditioned reflexes are reduced in all dogs, the capacity for differentiation is disinhibited, and the ultraparodoxical and paradoxical phases come on the scene. The restoration of conditioned reflexes following inhalation of ether in small concentrations occurs on the 2nd-15th day.