How did cats become domesticated in ancient times? - briefly
Cats were first domesticated around 10,000 years ago in the Near East and Egypt. This process likely began when early farmers started attracting wildcats with food scraps, leading to a gradual taming over generations.
How did cats become domesticated in ancient times? - in detail
The process of cat domestication is shrouded in mystery and has been a subject of debate among scholars for decades. Unlike dogs, which were likely domesticated from wolves around 15,000 years ago, cats have a more complex evolutionary history that spans thousands of years and multiple continents.
The earliest evidence of cat domestication dates back to around 9,500 years ago in Cyprus, where archaeologists discovered the remains of both humans and felines buried together. This discovery suggests a close relationship between humans and cats during the Neolithic period. However, it is unclear whether these cats were fully domesticated or if they were simply tolerated by human communities due to their ability to control pests such as rodents and snakes.
Another significant find comes from ancient Egypt, where cat remains have been discovered in graves dating back to around 6,000 years ago. The Egyptians held cats in high regard, often mummifying them alongside their owners. This practice indicates a deep bond between humans and felines, with cats being revered as sacred animals. The goddess Bastet, depicted with the head of a cat, was associated with protection, motherhood, and fertility. These findings suggest that by this time, cats had become fully integrated into human society and were considered valuable companions.
Genetic studies have provided further insights into the domestication process. Researchers have identified a specific gene variant in modern domestic cats that is not present in their wild ancestors. This variant, known as FADS2, is associated with dietary adaptations and may have played a role in allowing cats to thrive on human-provided food sources. Additionally, studies have shown that the majority of domestic cat breeds can be traced back to a small number of wild cat subspecies, including the African wildcat (Felis lybica), which is thought to be the primary ancestor of modern domestic cats.
The exact mechanisms by which cats became domesticated remain uncertain, but several theories have been proposed. One prominent theory suggests that cats were initially attracted to human settlements due to abundant food sources, such as rodents and birds. As humans began storing grain for longer periods, they inadvertently created ideal habitats for mice and rats, which in turn drew wild cats seeking prey. Over time, these wild cats may have become more tolerant of human presence and eventually integrated into human communities, leading to the process of domestication.
Another theory posits that humans actively sought out wild cats to control pests in their granaries and farms. By selectively breeding and caring for the most effective hunters, humans may have accelerated the domestication process. This intentional selection could explain why domestic cats possess certain traits, such as a higher tolerance for human contact and a reduced tendency towards aggression compared to their wild counterparts.
In summary, the domestication of cats is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that has been shaped by various factors over thousands of years. From ancient graves in Cyprus and Egypt to genetic studies in modern laboratories, the evidence suggests that cats have evolved from their wild ancestors into beloved companions through a combination of natural selection and human intervention. While the precise details of this transformation remain elusive, it is clear that cats have played an important role in human history and continue to be cherished members of many households today.