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Ancient Cats in Europe: Tracing Their North African Roots

Source: Domestic Cats Were Introduced to Europe around 2,000 Years Ago, Probably from North Africa: Study (2025-11-29)

A groundbreaking study reveals that domestic cats arrived in Europe approximately 2,000 years ago, originating from North Africa, challenging previous beliefs of a Neolithic introduction. This research, led by scientists from the University of Rome Tor Vergata, sequenced the genomes of 87 ancient and modern cats, uncovering new insights into feline migration and domestication. Beyond this discovery, recent facts highlight that: 1) domestic cats are descended from the African wildcat (Felis lybica lybica), which first appeared in North Africa around 300,000 years ago; 2) genetic evidence suggests multiple domestication events across different regions, including the Middle East and Egypt; 3) cats played a significant role in ancient Egyptian society, symbolizing protection and fertility, with archaeological evidence dating back over 4,000 years; 4) the spread of domestic cats closely correlates with trade routes such as the Silk Road and Mediterranean maritime networks, facilitating their global distribution; and 5) today, cats are among the most popular pets worldwide, with over 600 million domesticated individuals, contributing significantly to mental health and companionship. This new research not only reshapes our understanding of feline history but also emphasizes the importance of genetic studies in unraveling human-animal relationships across millennia. As scientists continue to explore ancient DNA, future discoveries may further illuminate how domestic animals have shaped human civilizations and ecosystems over time.

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