What did cats look like in the past? - briefly
Cats have evolved significantly over time. Early domesticated cats, known as Felis silvestris lybica, were smaller and had shorter fur compared to modern domestic cats.
What did cats look like in the past? - in detail
The evolution of cats, both wild and domestic, has been a subject of fascination for scientists and enthusiasts alike. To understand what cats looked like in the past, we must delve into their ancient ancestors and trace their journey through time.
The earliest known ancestor of modern cats is Miacis, a small, tree-dwelling mammal that lived approximately 40 million years ago during the Eocene epoch. Miacis had a long tail, short legs, and was likely covered in soft fur, resembling a modern raccoon more than a cat. As time progressed, Miacis evolved into Viverravus, which exhibited more cat-like features such as retractable claws and a carnivorous diet.
Around 25 million years ago, during the Oligocene epoch, the first true cats emerged with the genus Proailurus. These early cats were about the size of a domestic cat but had a more robust body structure and a longer tail. Proailurus was likely an omnivore, with a diet consisting of both plants and small animals.
The evolution of cats took a significant leap forward during the Miocene epoch (23-5 million years ago) with the appearance of two key genera: Pseudaelurus and Smilodon. Pseudaelurus, also known as "false cats," were larger than modern cats and had a more powerful build, reflecting their role as predators in ancient ecosystems. Meanwhile, Smilodon, the iconic saber-toothed cat, was characterized by its massive size and elongated canines, which it used for hunting large prey such as mammoths and giant sloths.
As the Miocene transitioned into the Pliocene (5-2 million years ago), cats continued to diversify. One of the most notable species from this period is Panthera leo atrox, the North American lion. This formidable predator was larger and more robust than its modern African counterpart, with a broader skull and more powerful jaws designed for taking down large herbivores like bison and horses.
The evolution of domestic cats began around 10,000 years ago during the Neolithic period when early farmers in the Fertile Crescent region (now Iraq) started to domesticate wildcats (Felis silvestris lybica). These early domestic cats were smaller and more slender than their modern descendants, with shorter fur and a leaner body structure. They closely resembled the African wildcat, which is still found in parts of Africa and the Middle East today.
Over time, as humans migrated across the globe, they brought their feline companions with them. This led to the development of various cat breeds through selective breeding based on desired traits such as coat color, size, and temperament. For example, the ancient Egyptians are known for their reverence of cats, particularly those with distinctive markings or unusual features like extra toes (polydactyly).
In conclusion, the past of cats is a rich tapestry woven with diverse species that have adapted to various environments and hunting strategies. From the small, tree-dwelling Miacis to the mighty saber-toothed Smilodon and the sleek domestic cats of today, the evolution of cats reflects their remarkable ability to thrive in a changing world.