The domesticated cat is one of the most popular pets in the world. It is thought that cats have been kept as pets for thousands of years. Most people consider themselves cat or dog people depending on the pet they prefer, but many people like both dogs and cats.
Maine Cat Source: The Book of the Cat
Cat Breeds
There are lots of types, or breeds, of cats. Cats come in many different colors, sizes, with hair, without hair, and with or without tails. Some of the most popular breeds include the Maine Coon, the Persian, the Siamese, and the American Shorthair.
How big do they get?
Cats usually weigh between 5 and 16 pounds, assuming they are healthy. An unhealthy fat cat can weigh quite a bit more. A cat that is kept indoors will typically live for 15 to 20 years. Cats have very good hearing. Their ears have 32 different muscles that enable them to point their ears in any direction. Cats are extremely agile and also have good night vision. These characteristics make cats good hunters.
Working Cats
Cats first became so popular as pets because they are skilled at catching rodents. They are very quick and can catch mice, rats, and other rodents in tight spots and in the dark. Cats are also very intelligent. Because of this cats are often used in barns and in ships to keep rodents under control
What is a group of cats called?
A large group of cats is called a clowder. A baby cat is called a kitten. A male cat is referred to as a tom, while a female cat is referred to as queen.
Cats as Pets
Cats can be good pets, but one must be very careful around them. Cats have sharp teeth and claws. It's best to play with cats with toys and not to push or wrestle with them with your hands. There are expert cat trainers who can help you with your new cat as well.
Fun Facts About Cats
People who love cats are called Ailurophiles.
Cats can make over 100 vocal sounds, while dogs can only make about ten.
In Ancient Egypt cats were considered sacred. People could be put to death for killing a cat.
There was a cat in England named Puss who lived to be 36 years old.
A group of kittens is called a kindle.
Some cats are taught to use the toilet. They can even flush!
Their sense of smell is around 14 times better than a human.
Spangled Cat Author: Flamingice007sg via Wikimedia
For more about cats:
Cheetah - The fastest land mammal.
Clouded Leopard - Endangered medium size cat from Asia.
Lions - This big cat is King of the Jungle.
Maine Coon Cat - Popular and large pet cat.
Persian Cat - The most popular breed of domesticated cat.
Tiger - Biggest of the big cats.
