What are domestic cats descended from? - briefly
Domestic cats are descended from the African wildcat (Felis silvestris lybica), a small wild feline species native to the Near East and North Africa. This ancestor was domesticated around 9,000 years ago, primarily for its ability to control pests.
What are domestic cats descended from? - in detail
The domestic cat, scientifically known as Felis catus, traces its ancestry back to the wildcat species Felis silvestris. Specifically, the African wildcat (Felis silvestris lybica), a subspecies of the wildcat, is considered the primary progenitor of today’s house cats. Genetic studies have revealed that the domestication of cats likely began around 9,000 to 10,000 years ago in the Fertile Crescent, a region encompassing parts of modern-day Middle East, including areas of present-day Iraq, Syria, and Turkey. This period coincided with the advent of agriculture, as humans began storing surplus grain, which attracted rodents. Wildcats, drawn to these rodent populations, began living in closer proximity to human settlements, initiating a mutually beneficial relationship. Over time, these wildcats became more tolerant of humans, and humans, in turn, began to appreciate their pest-control abilities. Selective breeding and natural adaptation further shaped the evolution of domestic cats, leading to the diverse breeds and characteristics seen today. Despite their domestication, cats retain many behaviors and traits of their wild ancestors, such as their hunting instincts, territorial nature, and solitary tendencies. Genetic analysis has shown that domestic cats share a significant portion of their DNA with Felis silvestris lybica, confirming their close evolutionary link. This process of domestication was gradual and differed from the domestication of other animals, as cats largely domesticated themselves by adapting to human environments. Their independent nature and minimal reliance on humans for survival allowed them to maintain a high degree of genetic similarity to their wild counterparts. Today, domestic cats are one of the most widespread and beloved companion animals globally, yet their lineage remains deeply rooted in their wild origins.