Catz

Catz. A small, domesticated carnivorous mammal, it is the only domesticated species in the family Felidae. Often referred to as a domestic cat to distinguish it from wild members of the felid family, it is commonly kept as a companion animal and valued by humans for its companionship and ability to hunt vermin. The cat has a strong, flexible body, quick reflexes, sharp teeth, and retractable claws adapted to killing small prey, and is known for its prowess as a predator.

Etymology and terminology

The English word "cat" derives from the Old English *catt*, which belongs to a family of words in late Proto-Indo-European and early Proto-Germanic. The scientific name *Felis catus* was proposed by Carl Linnaeus in the seminal 1758 work Systema Naturae. In terms of terminology, an unneutered male is called a tom, while a neutered male is a gib. A female is called a queen, especially in a breeding context, and a young cat is termed a kitten. The term "clowder" is used for a group of cats. Historically, cats have been known by various names across cultures, from the Ancient Egyptian *miu* to the Latin *feles*.

Biology and characteristics

Catz are obligate carnivores, with a digestive system and dentition, including prominent canine teeth, highly specialized for a meat-based diet. They possess keen senses, with exceptional night vision supported by a tapetum lucidum, a highly developed sense of hearing capable of detecting ultrasonic frequencies, and sophisticated vomeronasal organs used in flehmen behavior. Their characteristic retractable claws, housed within protective sheaths, are kept sharp for climbing and capturing prey. A notable anatomical feature is the reduced clavicle, which allows for the unique, flexible shoulder movement essential for their fluid gait. Common behaviors include purring, often associated with contentment, and kneading, a remnant of nursing behavior.

Domestication and history

The domestication process is believed to have begun around 7500 BC in the Fertile Crescent, coinciding with the advent of agriculture and the need to protect grain stores from pests like rodents. Genetic studies suggest all modern domestic cats descend from the African wildcat (*Felis silvestris lybica*). They were famously venerated in ancient Egyptian society, where they were associated with deities like Bastet and often mummified. During the Middle Ages in Europe, they were sometimes unjustly associated with witchcraft and superstition, leading to periods of persecution. Their global spread was facilitated by Phoenician, Greek, and Roman trading ships, and later by explorers during the Age of Discovery.

Breeds and varieties

Selective breeding over the last few centuries has produced a wide array of distinct breeds, recognized by organizations such as The International Cat Association and the Fédération Internationale Féline. Breeds are often categorized by physical traits, such as long-haired varieties like the Persian and Maine Coon, or short-haired types like the Siamese and British Shorthair. Other notable breeds include the hairless Sphynx, the curly-coated Cornish Rex, and the large Savannah, a hybrid with the serval. Coat patterns and colors, such as tabby, tortoiseshell, and colorpoint, are governed by complex genetics.

Interaction with humans

Catz hold a significant place in human culture, appearing in the mythology of numerous societies, from the folklore of the bakeneko to the ship's cat traditions of the Royal Navy. They are prevalent subjects in art and literature, featured in works like Lewis Carroll's *Alice's Adventures in Wonderland* (the Cheshire Cat) and T.S. Eliot's *Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats*, which inspired the musical *Cats*. As companion animals, they are one of the most popular pets globally, with ownership linked to studied benefits for human mental health. Their hunting instinct remains utilized in biological pest control in settings like farms and warehouses. Modern interactions also include competitive activities like cat shows and the popular internet phenomenon of cat videos and memes.

Category:Felids Category:Domesticated animals Category:Companion animals