Who are the ancestors of cat breeds? - briefly
The ancestors of modern cat breeds trace back to the African wildcat (Felis lybica), which was domesticated in the Near East around 9,000 years ago.
Who are the ancestors of cat breeds? - in detail
The ancestors of modern cat breeds trace their lineage back to the wildcats of the ancient world, primarily the African wildcat (Felis lybica), which is widely regarded as the primary progenitor of domestic cats. This species, native to Africa and the Near East, exhibited traits that made it more adaptable to human environments, such as a relatively docile temperament and a tendency to hunt rodents, which likely attracted early agricultural societies. Genetic studies have confirmed that domestic cats share a significant portion of their DNA with Felis lybica, indicating a direct evolutionary link. Over thousands of years, these wildcats were gradually domesticated, with the process beginning around 9,000 years ago in the Fertile Crescent, where humans transitioned from nomadic lifestyles to settled farming communities. As humans migrated and traded across continents, they brought their feline companions with them, leading to the spread of cats to Europe, Asia, and beyond. Over time, natural selection and human intervention led to the development of distinct physical and behavioral traits in different regions, laying the foundation for the diverse cat breeds we recognize today. Some breeds, such as the Siamese and the Turkish Angora, have ancient origins and can be traced back to specific geographic areas, while others, like the Maine Coon and the British Shorthair, emerged more recently through selective breeding. The genetic diversity observed in modern cat breeds is a testament to the complex interplay between natural adaptation and human influence, with each breed reflecting a unique combination of ancestral traits and selective breeding practices.