How did cats became pets?

Cats have coexisted with humans for at least 9,500 years, possibly even longer. Despite some controversy over the true origins of cat domestication, archaeological and genetic evidence points to the first domestic cats emerging in the Near East, specifically in the region known as the Fertile Crescent. Here's a general outline of how cats became pets:

1. Commensal Relationship: Cats and humans initially came into contact around settlements where Neolithic people settled to practice agriculture. Cats were drawn to human settlements because they provided an abundant food source in the form of rodents.

2. Mutual Benefits: Cats benefited from the readily available food, and humans benefited from cats' ability to control rodent populations that infested their homes and granaries. This mutually beneficial relationship set the stage for cats to be accepted and tolerated by humans.

3. Natural Selection and Breeding: Over time, certain cats with desirable traits, such as tameness and adaptability to human environments, had a higher chance of survival and reproduction. Natural selection favored these traits, leading to the emergence of cats better suited for living alongside humans.

4. Selective Breeding: As civilizations developed and humans began to appreciate cats for their companionship and aesthetic qualities, selective breeding practices emerged. Specific cat breeds were developed with various physical characteristics and temperaments. Ancient Egyptians were particularly renowned for their veneration and selective breeding of cats.

5. Cultural and Religious Influences: Cats played significant roles in various cultures and religions. The Egyptians revered cats as sacred animals and mummified them upon their death. In other cultures, cats were seen as symbols of luck, fertility, and protection.

6. Global Spread: Through trade, exploration, and colonization, cats spread from the Near East to other parts of the world, eventually becoming beloved pets across continents. Seafaring cultures, like the Phoenicians and Vikings, are believed to have played a role in the global distribution of cats.

Over the centuries, cats solidified their position as popular and cherished pets, adapting to various living conditions and human societies. Their innate qualities, including cleanliness, independent nature, and affectionate behavior, have contributed to their lasting appeal as beloved companions.