How did the first cats look? - briefly
The earliest known cats were likely small and wild, resembling today's African wildcat. Fossil records suggest they had similar features but were smaller in size compared to modern domestic cats.
How did the first cats look? - in detail
The origin of domestic cats can be traced back approximately 10,000 years ago in the Fertile Crescent region of the Middle East. The first cats were likely descendants of the African wildcat (Felis lybica), a small species that still inhabits parts of Africa and Asia today. These early cats were attracted to human settlements by the abundance of rodents and other small prey, which were drawn to the grain stores maintained by ancient humans.
The appearance of these first domestic cats was similar to their wild ancestors, with short coats, primarily in shades of gray, brown, or buff. They had slender bodies, long legs, and large ears, features that are still common among modern domestic breeds. Their eyes were typically green or amber, providing excellent vision for hunting.
Over time, as these cats began to live alongside humans, selective breeding led to significant changes in their physical characteristics. Cats with desirable traits, such as a calm demeanor or unique coat patterns, were often chosen for companionship, leading to the diversification of cat breeds we see today. However, it is essential to note that the exact timeline and specific details of this evolution are still subjects of ongoing research and debate among scientists.