Domestic cat

Domestic Cat

The domestic cat (Felis catus) is a small, typically furry, carnivorous mammal that is often valued by humans for its companionship and its ability to hunt vermin. Cats have been associated with humans for at least 9,500 years and are currently the most popular pet in the world.

Taxonomy and Evolution

The domestic cat is a member of the family Felidae, which includes lions, tigers, and other big cats. It is a subspecies of the wildcat (Felis silvestris). The scientific name Felis catus was proposed by Carl Linnaeus in 1758.

Domestication

Cats were domesticated in the Near East around 7500 BC. The earliest evidence of a domesticated cat was found in a Neolithic grave on the island of Cyprus, dating to around 7500 BC. Cats were likely attracted to human settlements by the abundance of rodents, which were drawn to stored crops.

Physical Characteristics

Domestic cats are small, with a flexible body and sharp retractable claws. They have a strong, flexible body, quick reflexes, sharp teeth adapted to killing small prey, and a long tail that aids in balance.

Coat and Color

Cats have a wide variety of coat colors and patterns, including tabby, solid, bicolor, tricolor, and more. The genetics of cat coat colors is complex, involving multiple genes and alleles.

Behavior

Cats are known for their independence, but they are also social animals. They communicate with a variety of vocalizations, including meowing, purring, trilling, hissing, growling, and grunting.

Hunting and Feeding

Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they rely on a diet of animal flesh. They are skilled hunters, using stealth and patience to catch their prey. In the wild, cats primarily hunt small mammals and birds.

Reproduction

Cats are prolific breeders. A female cat, or queen, can have multiple litters each year. The gestation period is about 64 to 67 days, and litters typically consist of two to five kittens.

Health and Diseases

Cats are susceptible to a variety of health issues, including feline leukemia virus, feline immunodeficiency virus, and feline infectious peritonitis. Regular veterinary care is important to maintain a cat's health.

Cultural Significance

Cats have been revered in various cultures throughout history. In ancient Egypt, cats were considered sacred and were associated with the goddess Bastet. In modern times, cats are popular in literature, art, and internet culture.

See Also

• Cat communication
• Cat health
• List of cat breeds

References

• Driscoll, C. A., Macdonald, D. W., & O'Brien, S. J. (2009). From wild animals to domestic pets, an evolutionary view of domestication. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 106(Supplement 1), 9971-9978.
• Bradshaw, J. W. S. (2013). Cat Sense: How the New Feline Science Can Make You a Better Friend to Your Pet. Basic Books.

External Links

• World Cat Library
• Cat Fanciers' Association