Where were cats first brought to Russia from? - briefly
Cats were first introduced to Russia from the Byzantine Empire, primarily brought by merchants and travelers during the early medieval period.
Where were cats first brought to Russia from? - in detail
Cats were first introduced to Russia from the Middle East and Europe, with evidence suggesting that their arrival dates back to the early medieval period. The domestication of cats had already been established in ancient Egypt and the Fertile Crescent, and their spread followed trade routes and human migration. By the 7th to 9th centuries, as trade connections between the Byzantine Empire, the Middle East, and the Slavic tribes of Eastern Europe flourished, cats began to appear in Russian territories. These felines were highly valued for their ability to control rodent populations, which was crucial for protecting grain stores and preventing the spread of disease. The Byzantine Empire, in particular, played a significant role in this cultural exchange, as it was a major hub of commerce and a source of many goods and animals that reached the Kievan Rus'. Archaeological findings in ancient Russian settlements, such as Novgorod and Staraya Ladoga, have uncovered cat remains that date back to the 10th century, confirming their presence during this period. Over time, cats became deeply integrated into Russian culture, appearing in folklore, literature, and daily life, symbolizing both domesticity and mysticism. Their introduction marked an important development in the ecological and cultural history of the region.