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Re: Beginning time of the domesticated cat:
The Human/Cat relationship dates back to ancient times. The Muslim Prophet Mohammed is said to have found a sleeping cat on his robe, and rather than disturbing the slumbering cat, he opted to cut a hole in his robe.
Archaeologists have discovered evidence of Human, Cats, and Mice buried together on the island of Cyprus that dates back to 6000 BCE (Bisno, 1997). Cats have become a highly regarded member of many cultures for a variety of reasons. Their mouse catching skills, cleanliness, attitude, and beauty, just to name a few. Female cats have also recently been recognized for their strong mothering instinct. One high profile cat ran back into a burning house exactly enough times to save each of her kittens from the blaze. Cats can be adopted from the Humane Society, bought at a pet store, bred, or rescued off the street, but their contribution to the household they are in is invaluable. Ancient Egyptians embraced the cat as no other culture has as a helpful addition to the household, because of their ability to ward off rodents that ate the grain supply, and not eating any grain themselves.
Word is that today's domesticated tabby is a descendant of the ancient cat of Egypt. They were also used to help hunters. They retrieved birds from marshes, much like dogs. From 1000-350 BCE, however, cats were also seen as deities, and worshipped as such.
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