To whom are domestic cats closer? - briefly
Domestic cats are genetically and behaviorally closer to wildcats, particularly the African wildcat (Felis silvestris lybica), from which they are believed to have descended.
To whom are domestic cats closer? - in detail
Domestic cats (Felis catus) are biologically and genetically closer to their wild relatives within the Felidae family, particularly the African wildcat (Felis lybica). This species is considered the primary ancestor of modern domestic cats, sharing a nearly identical genetic makeup. The domestication of cats began approximately 9,000 years ago in the Near East, where early agricultural societies attracted wildcats due to the presence of rodents. Over time, a mutually beneficial relationship developed, leading to the gradual domestication of these animals. While domestic cats have diverged behaviorally and physically from their wild counterparts, they retain many instinctual traits, such as hunting skills, territorial behavior, and nocturnal activity. In contrast, domestic cats are less closely related to other small felids like the European wildcat (Felis silvestris) or larger cats such as lions and tigers, which belong to the same family but diverged evolutionarily millions of years ago. Despite their domestication, cats maintain a strong genetic and behavioral connection to their wild ancestors, reflecting their relatively recent and less intensive domestication compared to other animals like dogs. This closeness to their wild origins explains many of their independent and self-reliant behaviors observed in domestic settings.