What kind of cats did the Egyptians have? - briefly
The ancient Egyptians revered and domesticated several types of cats, primarily the African Wildcat (Felis lybica) and its close relative, the Jungle Cat (Felis chaus). These felines were considered sacred and often depicted in art and literature, reflecting their significant cultural importance.
What kind of cats did the Egyptians have? - in detail
The ancient Egyptians revered and worshipped cats, often depicting them in their art and associating them with various deities. The most prominent feline species that the Egyptians kept as pets were the African Wildcat (Felis lybica) and its domesticated descendant, the Egyptian Mau (Felis catus).
The African Wildcat is believed to be the ancestor of all domestic cats. It is a small, slender cat with a short coat that comes in various colors, including grey, brown, and reddish-brown. The African Wildcat was likely first domesticated around 10,000 years ago in the Fertile Crescent region, which includes parts of modern-day Egypt. These wild cats were attracted to human settlements due to the abundance of rodents and other small prey that could be found there. Over time, humans selectively bred these cats for their usefulness in pest control and companionship, leading to the development of the domestic cat.
The Egyptian Mau is a distinct breed of domestic cat that originated from the African Wildcat. It is known for its distinctive spotted coat, large ears, and green eyes. The breed's name, "Mau," comes from the ancient Egyptian word for cat, which was "miau" or "mau." The Egyptian Mau is one of the oldest cat breeds and has been depicted in ancient Egyptian art dating back to 1500 BCE. These cats were highly valued by the Egyptians for their hunting skills and companionship. They were often kept as pets by wealthy individuals and were sometimes mummified along with their owners, indicating their high status in society.
In addition to these specific breeds, other cat species and hybrids may have been present in ancient Egypt. For example, some scholars suggest that the Jungle Cat (Felis chaus) might have been kept by the Egyptians for its hunting abilities. However, the African Wildcat and the Egyptian Mau remain the most well-documented and recognized feline companions of the ancient Egyptians.
The relationship between cats and humans in ancient Egypt was complex and multifaceted. Cats were not only beloved pets but also held significant religious and cultural importance. They were associated with various deities, including Bastet, a goddess often depicted with the head of a cat or a lioness. The worship of Bastet emphasized the protective and nurturing aspects of cats, reflecting their valued role in Egyptian society.
In conclusion, the Egyptians kept and revered several types of cats, with the African Wildcat and its domesticated descendant, the Egyptian Mau, being the most prominent. These felines played essential roles in pest control, companionship, and religious practices, solidifying their importance in ancient Egyptian culture.