Though they don’t often show affection as readily as their canine counterparts, there’s no doubt that our feline friends are attached to us, and dare I say even love us. Cats and humans have an interesting history, one in which both sides have served different yet important roles to each other, and it’s because of this history that cats have become the dependable companions that they are today.
Where it All Began: The Domestication of Cats
The ancient Egyptians are typically revered as the first to live in harmony with cats, but research has shown that people have lived closely with felines for much longer than originally thought.
Middle East
Around 10,000 years ago, people in the Mediterranean region were largely farmers. This lifestyle allowed them to remain stationary in one area with a relatively reliable food supply, but humans weren’t the only ones interested in that food. Rodents were too. The abundance of rodents that farming attracted also attracted cats, and so, out of necessity, humans and cats started to see how they could benefit each other. It was more of a practical relationship than one of snuggles and purrs.
Egypt
Humans and cats existed side by side for thousands of years, but then the Egyptians shifted that relationship to one of admiration and worship rather than simply respect and necessity. Egyptians viewed cats as godlike and treated them as companions rather than co-workers starting around 4,000 years ago.
Europe
There was a growing trend of seeing cats for more than just their hunting skills. They were becoming true companions, but that timeline wasn’t all sunbeams and catnaps. In fact, the Middle Ages in Europe was a bit of a step back for the human-cat bond where cats were thought to have demonic qualities rather than godlike traits. Many cats were killed or condemned from living with people. Fortunately, that changed during the Age of Enlightenment when cats were once again sought out for rodent control and companionship.
North America
Cats were brought to the Americas by European settlers. They picked up where they left off in Europe, serving as both members of the household and fierce hunters. From there, it was a gradual shift where more and more cats shed their hunting responsibilities for the life of an indoor companion, making them one of the most popular pets today.
What Makes Cats Great Companions?
Why have humans and cats had this mutual attraction for so long? It’s more than us wanting to squish those furry cheeks and them wanting a cozy bed and reliable meals.
Sense of Responsibility
While it may not seem like a positive thing, having responsibility actually does improve human existence. We like to have something to do, to have a purpose beyond ourselves. Cats provide that and more. They hold us accountable by not letting us sleep in when there’s a meal to be served and by making sure our households are safe and sanitary, not only for them but for ourselves as well.
Low Maintenance
A litter box may seem like anything but low maintenance, but when you compare it to taking multiple walks a day for a dog to potty, a little sifting suddenly becomes no big deal. When coupled with their small body size, cats make it easier to have a pet when you have limited space or limited finances.
Emotional Support
Dogs are called ‘man’s best friend’ because of their unconditional support and love, but cats are every bit as able to recognize and respond to human emotions. That’s why they may greet you with a purr and rub when you’ve had a stressful day or with some zoomy play when you’ve just received a promotion or other good news.
Mental and Physical Health
Study after study has shown that sharing your life with a cat boosts a person’s mental and physical health. From lowering blood pressure to sharpening mental alertness, cat companions can be an invaluable tool to living a healthier, happier life.
How to Strengthen Your Human-Cat Bond
Though having cats in our lives provides many positives, felines are going to make you work for those benefits. If your relationship is a little lackluster, there are some things you can do to strengthen that bond.
Provide the Necessities
At the most basic level, you simply need to make sure your cat’s needs are met. This means food, water, and shelter. Good quality food and fresh clean water should be provided daily. Along with that, you’ll want to make sure your cat has a safe and warm spot to spend their time.
If you want to up your game, provide your cat with a comfy bed and stimulating toys that not only give them the exercise they need but also make them think. They should know they can rely on you not only for their basic resources but also for entertainment and engagement needs.
One-on-One Affection
Cats like to think they are the center of the world, and while you know better, treating them as the center of your world from time to time doesn’t hurt. Give your kitty daily one-on-one time where they get the pets or playtime that they crave with you. Depending on the cat’s personality, this may include other animals or humans or it may just be you and them.
Veterinary Care
Regular veterinary care is more than vaccinations. Seeing your veterinarian on an annual or biannual basis also allows you the opportunity to discuss any new, different, or weird things that may have popped up with your cat’s behavior. This will give you the chance to adjust things in order to make sure your cat is as healthy as possible.
In Conclusion
Cats and humans have coexisted for thousands of years. What first began as a relationship of necessity has evolved into a mutual love. Cats and humans provide many benefits to each other and understanding those benefits can help strengthen and maintain your bond.
About the Author
Chyrle Bonk has been a veterinarian since 2010 and has been writing for pet and veterinary publications for over 7 years. She also owns a small cattle herd and a menagerie of animals. When not working, Dr. Bonk enjoys spending time with her family somewhere in the great outdoors.