Cat Lecture Notes

Introduction

• The domestic cat (Felis catus), also known as the house cat, is a small, domesticated carnivorous mammal.
• It is the only domesticated species in the Felidae family.
• Cats are commonly kept as pets and valued for companionship and their ability to control vermin.
• They possess retractable claws, sharp teeth, strong bodies, and excellent night vision and sense of smell.
• Cats are solitary hunters, but a social species.

Domestication

• Domestication of cats began in the Near East around 7500 BC.
• Cats were likely attracted to human settlements due to rodent populations and gradually domesticated.
• Genetic studies suggest domesticated cats descended from African wildcats.

Cat Characteristics

Physical Attributes

• Cats have a strong, flexible body and quick reflexes.
• They possess retractable claws and sharp teeth for hunting.
• Cats have a unique skeletal structure that aids in mobility and flexibility.

Sensory Abilities

• Excellent night vision due to a reflective layer behind the retina.
• Acute hearing, able to hear higher frequencies than humans.
• Highly developed sense of smell and sensitive whiskers for navigation.

Communication

• Cats communicate through vocalizations like meows, purrs, hisses, and body language.
• Purring can signal contentment or distress.

Behavior

• Cats are crepuscular, most active during dawn and dusk.
• They sleep 12-16 hours a day; some up to 20 hours.
• They are territorial and use scent markings to define territory.
• Cats can form social hierarchies and display affection towards humans.

Reproduction

• Female cats are polyestrous, having multiple heat cycles in a year.
• Mating involves the male biting the female's neck.
• Gestation lasts about 64-67 days, with litters ranging from 2-5 kittens.

Health and Lifespan

• Average lifespan of pet cats has increased to about 13 years.
• Neutering increases lifespan and has health benefits.
• Common diseases include genetic disorders, infections, and chronic diseases like kidney disease.

Environmental Impact

• Domestic cats have become a cosmopolitan species, present worldwide except Antarctica.
• They are considered invasive, affecting native wildlife populations.
• Feral cats can interbreed with wildcats, impacting genetic integrity.

Cultural Significance

• Cats have been revered throughout history, notably in ancient Egypt.
• They have been associated with various superstitions, both positive and negative.

Fun Fact

• Cats are believed to have multiple lives in folklore, with variants saying they have 6, 7, or 9 lives depending on the culture.

Conclusion

• Cats continue to be important companions to humans and play significant roles in various cultures worldwide.
• Despite their invasive status in some regions, they remain a beloved pet globally.