Cats, those puzzling and free animals, have been sharing our homes and lives for thousands of years. From old Egypt to current the suburbs, they’ve caught our hearts with their playful, relieving murmurs, and, obviously, their famous demeanor of secret.
A Brief Look Into History
The historical backdrop of cats as trained creatures is however rich as it seems to be mysterious.
It’s generally accepted that cats were first trained in old Egypt around 2000 BCE, basically to control pests like rats and mice. Cats immediately expected a consecrated job in Egyptian culture, frequently portrayed in art and mythology. Killing a cat, even accidentally, was a crime punishable by death. From Egypt, cats gradually spread to other parts of the world. The Romans, for example, embraced them as the two pets and protectors of grain stores. In the Middle times, cats were related to black magic and odd notions in Europe, prompting their abuse and, amusingly, adding to the spread of the Dark Plague, as rats multiplied unchecked. It wasn’t until the Renaissance that cats regained their favor in Europe.
The Mysterious Way of Behaving of Cats
Cats are known for their mysterious behaviors. Here are some intriguing aspects of feline conduct:
Purring: The soothing sound of a cat’s purring is not just a sign of contentment; it can also indicate pain or discomfort. Purring is thought to have a healing effect on both the cat and its human companion.
Hunting Instinct: Cats are natural hunters. Even domesticated cats retain their predatory instincts. This can lead to behaviors like pouncing on moving objects or bringing “gifts” of prey (often inanimate objects) to their owners.
Nighttime Movement: Cats are crepuscular creatures, meaning they are generally dynamic during first light and nightfall. This behavior is thought to be rooted in their hunting habits when twilight offered the best cover for stalking prey.
Independence: Cats are renowned for their independence, but they also form strong bonds with their human companions.
The Cats Human Association
Unlike dogs, which have been selectively bred for specific tasks and exhibit a high degree of dependence on humans, cats have retained their independence. Yet, this very independence seems to be part of their charm.
The act of a cat curling up in your lap or purring contentedly as you stroke its fur can be profoundly soothing. In return, cat owners often become deeply attached to their feline companions.
They can often tell when we’re sad or anxious and may offer comfort in their own unique ways, whether through purring, snuggling or simply being present.
Cat Breeds and Varieties
Cats come in various varieties, with their own remarkable qualities. From the playful and sociable Siamese to the regal and reserved Maine Coon, there’s a cat breed to suit almost any personality and lifestyle.
The diversity in coat colors and patterns is equally astounding. Cats can be solid, striped, spotted, or marbled, and their coat colors range from pure white to deep black, with every shade of gray, brown, and orange in between.
Cats in Popular Culture
From literature, where they’ve been featured in works like T.S. Eliot’s “Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats” (which inspired the musical “Cats”), to film, where they’ve appeared in movies like “The Aristocats” and “Puss in Boots,” and even the internet, where cat videos and memes reign supreme.
Both offering good luck and causing bad omens, have long been a part of superstition and folklore.
Cats, their perplexing ways of behaving, long and interesting history, and cozy relationships with people make them esteemed family pets across the globe. The following time those captivating eyes grab your eye, consider how profound their set of experiences runs and the equivalent warmth of their souls.