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Also called 'clipnosis' or pinch-induced behaviour inhibition. It prevents cats from moving around when you hold the nape of their neck. There's a lot of veterinary research on how effective this technique is, but I can't seem to find why it happens. What works on the neurons? What genes cause this to happen?

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Final answer:

Clipnosis, also known as pinch-induced behavior inhibition, is a phenomenon where cats become still when their nape is held. It is believed to work by inhibiting the release of acetylcholine from neurons, resulting in flaccid paralysis. The specific genes or mechanisms involved are still unknown.

Step-by-step explanation:

The phenomenon described, where cats become still when you hold the nape of their neck, is known as 'clipnosis' or pinch-induced behavior inhibition. It is believed to work by inhibiting the release of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine from neurons, resulting in flaccid paralysis. This prevents cats from moving around.

Although there has been a lot of veterinary research on the effectiveness of this technique, the exact genes or specific mechanisms involved in clipnosis have not been identified yet.

"Clipnosis" is a term that is often used to refer to a gentle method of restraint for cats. It involves using a small clip, such as a binder clip or similar device, to apply gentle pressure to the scruff of a cat's neck. The scruff is the loose skin at the back of the neck.

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