| Cat | |
| 🐱 Felis catus | |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
|---|---|
| Class | Mammalia |
| Order | Carnivora |
| Family | Felidae |
| Genus | Felis |
| Species | F. catus |
| Lifespan | 12 – 18 years |
The cat (Felis catus) is a small domesticated carnivorous mammal. It is the only domesticated species in the family Felidae and is commonly referred to as the domestic cat to distinguish it from the wild members of the family. Cats can be house cats, farm cats, or feral cats; the latter ranges freely and avoids human contact.
Domestic cats are valued by humans for companionship and their ability to kill rodents. They are one of the most popular pets in the world, with an estimated 220 million owned cats and roughly 480 million stray cats roaming freely worldwide.
Cats were first domesticated in the Near East around 7500 BCE. The earliest known indication of a human–cat relationship comes from a burial site in Cyprus dating to approximately 9,500 years ago, where a cat was found buried alongside a human. It is believed that cats were attracted to early agricultural settlements because grain stores drew mice and other small rodents, providing a steady food source.
Ancient Egyptians revered cats and associated them with the goddess Bastet. Killing a cat in ancient Egypt was considered a serious crime. From Egypt, domestic cats spread to Greece, Rome, and eventually throughout Europe and the rest of the world via trade routes.
Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they require nutrients found primarily in meat. They are crepuscular hunters, most active around dawn and dusk. A domestic cat sleeps for an average of 13 to 16 hours per day, making them one of the most sleep-inclined mammals.
They communicate using vocalisations such as meowing, purring, hissing, and growling, as well as through body language. The slow blink, often called a "cat kiss," is widely interpreted as a sign of trust and affection. Cats are also known for kneading with their paws, a behaviour carried over from kittenhood when they stimulate milk flow from the mother.
There are over 70 recognised cat breeds worldwide, varying significantly in size, coat, and temperament. Some of the most popular breeds include the Persian, known for its long luxurious coat; the Siamese, recognised by its striking blue eyes and colour-pointed fur; the Maine Coon, one of the largest domesticated breeds; and the British Shorthair, prized for its round face and dense plush coat.
Cats have had a complex relationship with human culture. In medieval Europe, they were sometimes associated with witchcraft and superstition, leading to widespread persecution. In contrast, many Asian cultures consider cats to be symbols of good fortune — the Japanese maneki-neko (beckoning cat) figurine is a well-known example.
In the modern era, cats have become internet celebrities. The rise of social media platforms in the early 21st century turned cats into one of the most shared subjects online, spawning countless memes and viral videos.