What country is the cat originally from? - briefly
The domestic cat is believed to have originated from the Near East, specifically from regions in ancient Egypt and the Fertile Crescent.
What country is the cat originally from? - in detail
The domestic cat, scientifically known as Felis catus, traces its origins to the Near East, specifically the region of the Fertile Crescent, which includes parts of modern-day Egypt, Iraq, Syria, and Turkey. Genetic and archaeological evidence suggests that cats were first domesticated around 9,000 years ago, coinciding with the advent of agriculture. Early farming communities stored surplus grain, which attracted rodents, and wild cats likely began to frequent these settlements to hunt the pests. Over time, a mutually beneficial relationship developed between humans and cats, leading to their gradual domestication. The African wildcat (Felis silvestris lybica), a subspecies native to the Near East, is considered the primary ancestor of the domestic cat. Ancient Egyptian civilization played a significant role in furthering the domestication process, as cats were revered and often depicted in art and mythology. From the Near East, domesticated cats spread across the globe through trade, exploration, and human migration, eventually becoming one of the most widespread and beloved companion animals worldwide.