Felines have been companion animals for thousands of years, with evidence suggesting cats were first domesticated around 9,500 years ago in the Near East. Ancient Egyptians were known to revere cats, even mummifying them alongside pharaohs.
Today, cats are one of the most popular pets worldwide, with an estimated 600 million living as domestic companions. Their independent nature makes them ideal pets for busy households, as they require less maintenance than many other animals.
The average house cat sleeps between 12-16 hours per day, conserving energy for their natural hunting behaviors. Even well-fed domestic cats retain their instinctual hunting skills, which can be observed in their play behaviors.
For more information about cat care, visit the ASPCA Cat Care Guide. If you’re interested in adopting a cat, check with your local animal shelter for available felines looking for forever homes.
