When did cats become domesticated? - briefly
Cats were first domesticated around 10,000 years ago in the Fertile Crescent region of the Near East, likely as a result of early farmers attracting wild cats with food scraps and rodents. This process occurred independently in both Europe and Africa, leading to the diverse cat breeds we see today.
When did cats become domesticated? - in detail
The process of cat domestication is a fascinating subject that has intrigued scientists and historians alike. Unlike dogs, which were domesticated around 15,000 years ago in multiple regions, cats have a more complex history with humans.
The earliest evidence of cat domestication dates back to approximately 12,000 years ago in the Near East. This period coincides with the beginning of agriculture when human societies started settling in permanent locations and cultivating crops. As grain storage became prevalent, it attracted rodents, which in turn drew wild cats to these settlements. Over time, cats adapted to this new environment and began to interact more closely with humans.
The first archaeological evidence of a cat-human relationship comes from Cyprus around 9,500 years ago. Here, scientists discovered the remains of both humans and cats buried together in a Neolithic settlement. This suggests that cats were not just tolerated but also valued by human communities at this early stage.
Fast forward to ancient Egypt, where cats achieved a unique status. Around 4,000 years ago, cats were revered as sacred animals and often depicted in art with divine attributes. The worship of the cat goddess Bastet highlights the special bond that had developed between humans and felines by this time. This period also saw the first instances of deliberate cat breeding, indicating a more formalized process of domestication.
In China, archaeological findings from around 5,300 years ago show evidence of cats living alongside humans. These cats were likely attracted to human settlements for food and shelter, further solidifying their relationship with humans.
By the time of the Roman Empire, cats had spread throughout Europe and the Mediterranean region. They were valued not only as companions but also for their ability to control pests. The Romans introduced cats to many parts of Europe, contributing to their widespread domestication across the continent.
In summary, the process of cat domestication was gradual and occurred over thousands of years. Cats initially approached human settlements due to abundant food sources, particularly rodents attracted to grain stores. Over time, they were valued for their pest control abilities and eventually evolved into beloved companions. The archaeological record provides valuable insights into this journey, illustrating how cats transitioned from wild animals to cherished domestic pets.