Cats have fascinated humans for centuries with their independent nature and affectionate behavior. They are believed to have been domesticated around 9,000 years ago in the Middle East. Domestic cats, scientifically known as Felis catus, are carnivorous mammals. Thanks to their advanced senses, especially hearing and vision, they are excellent hunters, even in the dark.
Cats spend a large part of their day sleeping—on average between 12 and 16 hours a day. This energy conservation is linked to their natural hunting instincts. They groom themselves by licking their fur, which helps with both hygiene and regulating body temperature. Each cat has a unique personality; some are very social and playful, while others can be more distant.
Cats can also sense human emotions and often form strong bonds with their owners over time. Meowing is a vocalization they mainly use to communicate with humans. Scratching is a natural behavior used to sharpen their claws and mark territory.
Cats easily adapt to both urban and rural environments, making them one of the most popular pets worldwide.
