responses within affected cats to the antiepileptic drugs used for treatment and a lack of known neurological cause with no evidence having been found to demonstrate intracranial or extracranial causes of epilepsy. The final theory of the three main theories is that the syndrome is not a distinct entity, but a conglomerate of unique behaviours caused by a variety of environmental and behavioural factors. This theory is supported by the variability of clinical signs within affected cats, with many of the clinical signs being present within other feline disorders including dermatological, behavioural, orthopaedic and neurological disorders. Further support of this theory is provided by the mixed response to a wide range of therapeutic treatment. Overall, however, a consensus on the validity of this theory has not yet been reached. Currently, it is unknown whether there is any genetic link to the disease. Although any age, breed, or sex of cat can develop feline hyperesthesia syndrome, it has been noted that Abyssinian, Burmese, Himalayan and Siamese breeds appear to have an increased risk of developing the disease, therefore there is the possibility of a genetic link. It has also been observed that injury could be a predisposing factor of feline hyperesthesia syndrome. However, because injuries affect cats in numerous ways, increasing their stress and anxiety as well as affecting their physical well-being, this knowledge does not settle the debate on whether the condition is behavioural, epileptic or an umbrella term for several underlying conditions. In regards to the early theories, some consider tail mutilation to be associated with neuropathic pain rather than a direct clinical sign of feline hyperesthesia syndrome. This would be the case if feline hyperesthesia syndrome causes allodynia, a painful reaction to stimuli that should otherwise not cause pain, or alloknesis, where stimuli cause a pruriceptive sensation, commonly known as an itch, where the stimuli otherwise would not. It is notable when considering this theory, that some cats have been known to obsessively lick the base of their tail, rather than scratching or biting, which may suggest they're not feeling pain or pruritus, but rather an overwhelming compulsive motivation. It has, however, been hypothesised that due to itch and pain receptors sharing peripheral and central nervous system pathways, underlying pain may result in the excessive grooming described. Regardless of whether an affected cat demonstrates grooming or self-mutilating behaviours, they all tend to run around frantically following the completion