5 Incredible Domestic Cat Facts

Felis silvestris catus, better known as the domestic cat, is an eternally popular choice for pet owners. There are hundreds if not thousands of cat breeds that are able to survive almost anywhere that humans are able to live. They are, without fail, the most popular pets in the world. They are valued for their independence, their cleanliness, and their propensity to hunt vermin that live within their environment. Usually we see cats and do not give them a second thought. However, there are some things you may not know about these animals! Here are five things you didn't know about domestic cats.

It seems that, with millions of cats across the world, they would have to be descended from many different cats. Actually, a study in 2007 showed that all cats have the same lineage: five or more of the members of the subspecies Felis silvestris lybica, or the African wildcat.

It is commonly known that the Egyptians believed that cats were sacred; as such, it makes sense to think that cats were first domesticated in Ancient Egypt, right? Wrong! Cats may have been domesticated as early as the Neolithic Era, which is part of the so-called Stone Age. This was over 12000 years ago!

Cats of all types, including domesticated cats, are some of the best hunters in the animal kingdom. They have the ability to retrace their steps in order to minimize visible tracks - they will step with their forepaws, and then place their hind paws in the same exactly spot. Due to the padding on their paws, they are also exceptionally quiet when walking. Their sharp claws and teeth are ideal for hunting - after all, think of the term "cat and mouse"!

Many domesticated animals quickly become used to their new surroundings, rendering them incapable of surviving outside of the home. This is especially true for dogs, who quickly become accustomed to these comforts. Cats do not suffer from domestication in quite the same way. They retain many of the skills that allowed them to thrive in the wild, such as their sharp claws and teeth, and their taste for meat. A cat in good condition can run up to 31 miles per hour. Because of these features, even the most well-trained and domesticated house cat can survive in the wild, in unfamiliar conditions.

The sound that humans most associate with cats is their meow. However, cats can produce over 200 unique sounds from growls and hisses to purrs. They retain their meow for humans only. Cats are also the only animals who naturally purr as a form of communication.

Cats are unique and wonderful creatures that have been near and dear to human's hearts for thousands of years. Perhaps their mysterious nature is justified - after all, there are many things we don't really know about them!