It is the only domesticated species of the family felidae Advances in archaeology and genetics have shown that the domestication of the cat occurred in the near east around 7500 bc It is commonly kept as a pet and working cat, but it also ranges freely as a feral cat. Domestic cats are characterized by retractable claws, powerful bodies, acute senses, long tails, and specialized teeth adapted for hunting prey How did cats become pets We've feared them, revered them, and recorded them
Watch this video to learn about how cats became pets. Learn about the different types of cat breeds and their characteristics Find the perfect pet using our cat breed profile selector. Webmd veterinary experts provide comprehensive information about cat health care, offer nutrition and feeding tips, and help you identify illnesses in cats. There are at least 45 domestic breeds, which differ widely in features such as coat color, tail length, hair texture, and temperament, according to the cat fancier’s association. Now, there are an estimated 600 million domestic cats living around the world