THE DOMESTICATION OF THE CAT

The domestication of the cat is a process that is estimated to have occurred around 7500 BC in the Middle East region, specifically in what is now the territory of Turkey. Over the centuries, cats were gradually incorporated into human life due to their ability to control rodent populations in agricultural and urban settlements.

The ancestors of modern domestic cats are believed to be wild felines known as Felis silvestris lybica, which began to approach humans in search of food and shelter. This early interaction between humans and cats was the starting point of their domestication process, which developed slowly over the centuries.

By the 8th century AD, domestic cats had spread throughout much of Europe and Asia, becoming regular companions in homes and communities. Throughout history, cats have been prized for their hunting skills, their silent companionship and their ability to adapt to a variety of environments, from the trading ports of antiquity to the modern flats of today.

WHEN DID CATS BECOME POPULAR AS PETS?

Cats as pets began to gain significant popularity during the Middle Ages in Europe. During this period, domestic cats became valued companions in households, monastic communities and on merchant ships because of their ability to control rodent populations that were a common pest at the time.

It is believed that the association between cats and witchcraft during the witch hunts of the Middle Ages also contributed to their popularity as pets. Despite the superstitions and negative beliefs surrounding cats at certain times in history, their ability to hunt mice and protect food from infestation made them valued and respected companions.

THE WORLD'S OLDEST CAT BREEDS

There are currently 71 recognised cat breeds, all with very unique characteristics and personalities well defined by genetic selection, 

Some of these cat breeds are centuries old and have been part of human history and culture.

The oldest cat breeds known to date (as their genome has been studied in different universities in the United States) are:

• EGYPTIAN MAU: Emerged more than 4000 years ago.
• JAPANESE BOBTAIL: 5th century A.D.
• PERSIAN CAT: 17th century AD
• TURKISH ANGORA: 10th century
• TURKISH VAN: 17th century
• NORWEGIAN FOREST: 800 AD / 1050 AD
• KORAT: 1350 AD
• SIAMESE: 14th century

THE BENEFITS OF HAVING A CAT AS A PET

Studies show that people with pets tend to be healthier and happier than those without, but remember that having a cat in the house is a big responsibility and a lifelong commitment.

When you are ready to make the commitment to adopt a cat, you will find that owning a cat offers benefits such as the following:

• Stress reduction
• Our immune system is strengthened
• Children get sick less
• Emotional support (psychological crises)
• Improvement in certain mental illnesses such as depression.
  

CONCLUSION

Having a cat as a pet is a great option, and the history of these animals has accompanied us through several generations, cultures and empires, entering not only our homes and hearts, but also in art, literature and religion.