The Fascinating History of Domesticating Cats

Mar 20

Cats are one of the oldest domesticated animals, with evidence of their coexistence with humans dating back over 9,000 years. Despite their long association with humans, the domestication of cats is still shrouded in mystery. In this blog post, we'll explore the history of domesticating cats, including the theories behind their domestication, the roles they played in ancient civilizations, and their evolution into the beloved household pets we know today.

Theories of Domestication

Domestic cats have been living alongside humans for thousands of years, yet the domestication process of cats is still not completely understood.

Self-Domestication Theory

According to the self-domestication theory, cats may have domesticated themselves. This theory suggests that cats who were friendlier and more tolerant of humans were more likely to survive and reproduce, passing on their genes for tameness. Over time, this self-selection process resulted in a population of cats that were better suited for living with humans.

Co-Option Theory

Another theory suggests that cats became domesticated by co-opting human settlements. This theory proposes that wild cats were attracted to human settlements due to the abundance of prey animals, such as rodents. Over time, the cats became more comfortable around humans, and some may have even started to actively seek out human contact.

Companionship Theory

The companionship theory suggests that cats became domesticated because humans sought out their company. Early humans may have found that cats provided useful companionship and could help control the rodent population in human settlements. Over time, humans may have selectively bred cats to enhance their desirable traits, such as friendliness and tameness.

Religious Theory

In ancient civilizations such as Egypt, cats were considered sacred animals and were often worshipped as gods. It's possible that cats became domesticated because of their association with religion. Egyptians believed that cats possessed special powers and kept them as pets in their homes.

Agricultural Theory

The agricultural theory suggests that cats became domesticated due to their usefulness in controlling pests in agricultural settings. Cats were often kept in grain storage areas to protect crops from rodents, and over time, humans may have selectively bred cats that were more effective at controlling pests.

While it's difficult to know exactly how cats became domesticated, it's clear that they have played an important role in human history. Today, cats continue to be popular pets, providing companionship, comfort, and joy to millions of people around the world.

Roles in Ancient Civilizations

Cats have been a part of human civilization for thousands of years and have played significant roles in many ancient societies. From being worshipped as deities to serving as protectors of food stores, cats have held a special place in human history.

Ancient Egypt

Perhaps the most famous example of cats' importance in ancient societies is in Ancient Egypt. Cats were worshipped as sacred animals and were believed to be protectors of the home. They were often depicted in artwork and even mummified after death. In fact, killing a cat in Ancient Egypt was a crime punishable by death. This high regard for cats is evident in the many depictions of the goddess Bastet, who was often portrayed with the head of a cat.

Ancient Greece

In Ancient Greece, cats were also held in high esteem. They were associated with the goddess Artemis, who was often depicted with cats. It was believed that cats could see in the dark, making them valuable hunters of rodents and other pests.

Ancient Rome

Cats were also valued in Ancient Rome, where they were used to control rodents in the city's many granaries. Romans believed that cats had special powers and could ward off evil spirits.

Ancient China

In Ancient China, cats were considered lucky animals and were often kept as pets in wealthy households. They were believed to bring good luck and prosperity to their owners.

Viking Culture

Even the Vikings had a special relationship with cats. They believed that cats could protect their ships from evil spirits and bring good luck on long voyages. In fact, it was believed that the goddess Freyja, who was associated with love and fertility, rode in a chariot pulled by cats.

These are just a few examples of the important roles cats have played in ancient civilizations. From being worshipped as deities to serving as protectors of food stores, cats have held a special place in human history.

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