Cats
It is only too obvious that these great predators are members of the same family as our domestic cats. In fact all modern cats, wild or domestic, have one common ancestor, the miacids, which walked on our planet some tens of millions of years ago. A more direct ancestor, Felis Lunesis, appeared on the stage twelve million years ago, and it is assumed that all modern small cats evolved from that direct prehistoric species.
The big cats are everything our kitties aspire to be, even if they will never get there. While we may watch a nature film and seemingly see the similarity between lions or tigers and our own domesticated kitties is often striking they will always be our little kitties.
Though it is easily recognizeable with their walk, the facial expressions and their hunting technique (if only from watching our cats chase toys), and many other behavioral patterns that our little cats are very much related to these giants of nature.
Domestic Cats
Also called house cat, (species Felis catus), domesticated member of the family Felidae, order Carnivora. Like all felids, domestic cats, the smallest members of the family, are characterized by supple, low-slung bodies, finely molded heads, long tails that aid in balance, and specialized teeth and claws that adapt them admirably to a life of active hunting. Domestic cats possess other features favored by their owners like purring, loving, playfull and many more.
Little is known about this but it seems that the first cats to live near people were the African wild cats of Egypt. While these cats were probably attracted by the mice and rats that filled the great Egyptian grain stores, apparently, the ancient Egyptians were very appreciative of the cats' help in vermin control. In fact, the Egyptions who worshipped their cats and gave them a central place in their culture.also considered their feline friends to be gods and killing a cat was punishable by death.
The cats that inhabited Europe during the Middle Ages endured serious persecution due to their association with the witches of the times. The mysterious cat, with its superior senses and physical ability, was often seen as having a diabolic character. The close companionship between cats and elderly solitary women sometimes led to accusations of witchcraft which was directed at both the women and the cats of the times and both suffered severely from the connection.
European Legacy
It is believed that cats were introduced into Europe by Mediterranean traders. It is possible that cats also followed the trade routes all over the world, proving, as they migrated, to be invaluable in their role as vermin exterminators. Possibly why they were kept on old travelling ships of the time.
The Cat Today
As the Middle Ages came to an end, the popularity of the cat increased again in Europe and all over the world. Cats became admired pets once more and this time not necessarily for their hunting skills. New exotic breeds were imported to Britain from all over the empire, and the nineteenth century saw a rising interest in the breeding and showing of purebred cats. It is believed that the first official cat show was held in 1871 in London's Crystal Palace.
During the twentieth century, and in particular from the 1950s onwards, cats became even more cherished and loved by people from all over the world. With its ability to adjust to the new living conditions in the growing urbanization of the modern world, the cat is now one of the most popular pets in the world. In the United States and in Europe it is estimated that cats are now more popular than dogs as household pets. Unfortunately in one country, Australia, cats have a bad name for killing some of the endangered, ground dwelling animals and have been hunted in the wild when they go feral, (wild).
In a protected environment, cats today can reach old age and can enjoy a protective and mutually satisfying relationship with humans. Cats quality of life is also rising. Scientific research contributes to the creation of improved food and medical treatment, and also to a better understanding of feline behavior. Public education also contributes to peoples understanding of the responsible cat owner and what is required from them.
Unfortunately, the cat's ability to survive in harsh conditions has also created a serious problem of overpopulation. Too many cats end their lives as strays and feral cats struggling for a meager existence, or at animal shelters. It is our duty as cat owners to take care of this situation. Unlike dog owners it may be harder for us but unless we prevent the birth of unwanted kittens so that in the long run most cats will have, as they deserve, caring, loving homes. It will be only then that we can truly say that the cat's story has reached a happy stage in the twenty-first century and so on into the future.
Loving Cat Owners
As it is our responsibility and should be a pleasure, we, the cat owners of the world, need to be vigilant in our quest for the presevation of our loveable tabbies. It is our duty to care, feed and provide entertainment for our pet on a daily manner. When it comes to breeding our cats this must be looked into thoroughly and if we have no intention of breeding them then it should be a quick trip to the local vet's to ensure we do not add to the vast number of unwanted and uncared for cats that will have little joy in their lives
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