Cats have long held a mysterious place in our lives but what if we told you that they chose us, not the other way around?
Recent DNA studies have revealed that cats lived alongside humans for thousands of years before ever becoming “domesticated.” Instead of being tamed like dogs, cats simply started showing up in ancient farming communities, drawn by the promise of easy hunting as rodents gathered near human food stores. And the humans? Well, they let them stay.
Archaeologists and geneticists have traced the story of the modern cat back around 9,000 years, where two key feline bloodlines, one from Southwest Asia, the other from Egypt laid the groundwork for the moggies we know and love today. The Egyptian variety, with its gentle nature and sociable temperament, likely helped cats win hearts across the ancient world.
Surprisingly, domestic cats haven’t changed all that much from their wild ancestors. Aside from the rise of the now-iconic tabby markings (which only became widespread in the Middle Ages), their genes remain almost identical to wildcats. Unlike dogs, which were shaped by selective breeding to perform specific tasks, cats were always perfect just as they were.
Today, cats remain fiercely independent, selectively affectionate, and endlessly entertaining which might be why they rule our homes, our hearts, and (let’s face it) the internet.
At Catkea, we believe cats deserve a space that matches their unique personality. From sunlit loungers to cosy hideaways, our furniture is designed to suit the cat who truly runs the house.... yours.
Explore our range at catkea.com.au and give your cat the kingdom they chose you to rule.
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Cat of the Month – May Toby from Clyde North, VIC