What do pheromones convey when detected in urine?

Pheromones are chemical signals released by animals that can convey a variety of messages to others of the same species. When detected in urine, pheromones primarily serve to communicate information to other animals. This includes signaling various states or needs such as reproductive status, social hierarchy, and individual identity.

In particular, pheromones can indicate when an animal is in estrus, alerting potential mates about mating readiness, or convey information that helps maintain social structures within a group. The presence of these chemicals in urine is a common way for species to share vital information about themselves, influencing behaviors and interactions with others.

While warning signals to predators, territorial markings, and signaling readiness to mate can all be forms of communication, the option that most broadly captures the role of pheromones in urine is that they convey messages to other animals, encompassing a variety of specific messages depending on the context.