Cats are among our closest friends because they have coexisted with humans for thousands of years. These inquisitive and self-reliant creatures have won people over all over the world and have a particular place in our hearts. However, how did people and cats start to get along?
Cats appeared to have chosen humans based on their own criteria, in contrast to dogs, who were tamed for hunting and protection. Attracted by the plenty of food and shelter, they stumbled into early human settlements and proved to be invaluable allies in the fight against pests like mice and rats. They changed over time from being untamed animals to becoming the adored house cats we know today.
Cats have always been companions, from ancient Egypt, where they were revered as gods, to contemporary homes with plenty of comfortable places to nap. Their fascinating journey alongside humans matches the enigma, charm, and hint of independence that characterize their personalities.
| Ancient Civilization | Role of Cats |
| Egyptians | Cats were worshiped and seen as protectors against evil spirits and rodents. |
| Romans | Cats helped protect food supplies by controlling the rodent population. |
| Chinese | Cats were valued for their ability to safeguard silk and grain stores from pests. |
| Vikings | Cats were kept to control mice on ships during long sea voyages. |
Cats and humans have coexisted for thousands of years, during which time they changed from being ferocious predators to cherished family members. With the promise of food and shelter, cats chose to remain with humans, in contrast to dogs, who were frequently bred for specific tasks. They make ideal housemates because of their affectionate yet independent personalities, which offer comfort and company without sacrificing their enigmatic, historic charm. Today, homemade cats are still cherished for their ability to blend their wild instincts with the calm of domestic life, proving that their bond with humans is both timeless and enduring.
The story of the domestication of cats
The Middle East, the ancestry of modern-day Anatolia, provided the first historical accounts of the domestication of cats. Recently, it was discovered that cats and humans were buried together.
The cat gained a divine aura in ancient Egypt, and some Egyptian gods even enhanced their appearances with feline characteristics.
From an early age, a deep respect for cats was taught, with severe consequences for any physical harm. Killing a cat was considered a tragedy, and the perpetrator was executed. The entire family mourned the loss of the cat, which was magnificently accompanied on its final journey in a decorated sarcophagus filled with mummified animals.
Domestic cats lived in both the Greek and Roman Empires, but exporting them out of Egypt was illegal and carried a death penalty. The cat proved to be a godsend for the Mediterranean countries because it prevented snakes and ferrets from seriously harming the rabble of rodents.
The domestic cat gradually spread throughout China, Europe, and the British Isles. These popular creatures were also present in Rus. These were heavenly, loving, respectful times for the feline world.
However, the cat’s supernatural powers and demonic force were bestowed upon it in Europe by the influence of medieval religion. If the wool had a black hue, the chances of its owner surviving were nearly nonexistent; the animal was blamed for starvation, the spread of illnesses, and human error alone.
The 18th century saw the end of the Inquisition and the return of the purring animal to a good attitude.
Since its debut in 1871, the first cat exhibition has become a regular occurrence in the lives of cats and their owners.
Variety of breeds of domestic cats
A person started choosing and breeding cats as a pet because they were constantly looking for variety. These pets eventually gave rise to numerous breeds, each distinct from the other in terms of appearance, temperament, and behavior. There are various breed categories into which domestic cats can be classified:
- By wool:
- Long -haired: Himalayan, Cymric, Norwegian forest;
- Short-haired: American, British shorthair, Brazilian;
- Curly: LaPerm, Devon Rex, Selkirk Rex;
- Bald: Canadian Sphynx, Don Sphynx, Bambino;
- by size:
- Large domestic cats: Maine Coon, Siberian cat, safari;
- Dwarf: Munchkin, Skookum, Minskin;
- by tail:
- Tailless: Manx;
- Bobtails: Kuril, American, Japanese.
It is possible for a breed to have both long and short hair. The tail may have short, medium, or long hair, or it may be fluffy. Both animal and eye colors vary greatly, but they must strictly adhere to the guidelines. A person loves this specific cat because he finds something valuable in each breed for himself.
Care for domestic cats
Taking care of cats at home is very easy:
- If the pet is long-haired or curly, then such a beauty needs to be combed with a special brush every 2-3 days comb. Shorthaired cats need this procedure much less often, with the exception of the shedding period: at this time, the fur coat needs to be combed out, removing fallen hair.
- It will not hurt your pet to bathe periodically with shampoos specially designed for this. The kitten is gradually accustomed to water, allowing it to get used to it and get used to it.
- The ears and eyes of the animal need to be wiped with clean wet wipes weekly.
- Walking contributes to the overall health of the domestic purr, the development of muscle mass and strengthening of the immune system.
- Timely vaccinations contribute to an important element of animal care.
- Visiting the veterinarian from a young age should become a useful preventive habit for the kitten.
- The pet should have its own favorite place where it can rest.
Homemade cat food
A four-legged meowing pet’s food selection depends on a number of factors:
- breed;
- body weight and fatness;
- health status (pregnancy, lactation, presence of chronic diseases);
- age;
- living conditions;
- season.
Combining home-cooked food with combined feeds, which is chosen based on the physiology, age, and daily requirements of the animal, would be a mistake that would upset the animal’s nutritional balance. The domestic cat consequently starts to experience health issues.
It is crucial to replenish the bowl with clean, fresh water twice a day.
If you want to feed your cat natural food, you should immediately understand: products from the table are not eaten. It is strictly forbidden to eat beans, salt, smoked meats, spicy, fried, or sweet foods.
A domestic cat’s diet consists of fermented milk products, eggs, boiled sea fish, beef, veal, lamb, and rabbit meat and offal. Vegetables, herbs, fats, and cereals are all welcome.
Raw river fish and tubular bones are not allowed. Giving the kitten a boiled egg once a week will be beneficial.
Cats have been important human companions for a very long time. These elegant creatures have learned to coexist with people, from ancient societies to contemporary homes, and have become cherished pets across numerous cultures. They have a special place in people’s hearts because of their independent yet loving nature.
Although cats were originally prized for their hunting prowess, they are now valued for their comfort and company. They are now valued for their playful nature and calming presence, having progressed from being food store guardians to actual family members.
The strong bond that exists between cats and humans only gets stronger, demonstrating how much we adore these creatures. Cats remind us of the happiness and calm they bring into our lives, whether they are cuddled up in a sunny spot or begging for attention. This enduring relationship between cats and people is evidence of the latter’s adaptability and enduring appeal.
Video on the topic
My Pets 2 (animation)
Pyramid with a mummy
WHAT DOES GOD LOOK LIKE 😳⁉️
